Lemon Bars

These classic lemon bars feature a rich, buttery shortbread crust topped with a smooth, tangy lemon filling and a light dusting of powdered sugar. Bright, sweet, and perfectly balanced, they’re an easy crowd-pleasing dessert.

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Keyword baked bars, citrus dessert,, easy dessert bars, lemon bars, lemon squares,, shortbread crust, spring dessert

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 40

Total Time 55

Servings

Calories 197kcal

Equipment

9×13-inch baking pan
Mixing bowls (large and medium)
Electric mixer or whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
rubber spatula
Fine mesh sieve (for dusting sugar)
Cooling Rack

Ingredients

For the crust:

1 cup ½ lb butter, softened
½ cup powdered sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour

For the filling:

4 eggs
2 cups granulated sugar
1 teaspoon grated lemon peel lemon zest
6 tablespoons lemon juice
⅓ cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder

For topping:

Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.

Make the crust:

In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and powdered sugar until creamy.
Add 2 cups of flour and mix until fully combined.
Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan.
Bake the crust for 20 minutes, or until lightly set.

Prepare the filling:

In a medium bowl, beat the eggs until light. Gradually add the granulated sugar and mix until pale and slightly thickened.
Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, remaining ⅓ cup flour, and baking powder. Mix until smooth.

Bake again:

Pour the lemon filling over the hot crust.
Return to the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the topping is set and lightly golden.

Cool and finish:

Allow to cool on a wire rack. While still slightly warm, dust the top lightly with powdered sugar.

Serve:

Cut into bars and serve. Store leftovers in an airtight container.

Notes

For best flavor, use freshly squeezed lemon juice.
Let the bars cool completely before cutting for cleaner edges.
Store at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
You can line the pan with parchment paper for easier removal.

Nutrition