The Best Lemon Bars Recipe: A Zesty Delight
Are you ready to bake the most amazing lemon bars that will leave your taste buds singing? This recipe isn't just about following instructions; it's about creating a lemony masterpiece that's perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant soirées. Get ready to impress your friends and family with these incredibly delicious and easy-to-make lemon bars.
The Secret to Perfectly Tangy Lemon Bars
The key to truly exceptional lemon bars lies in the balance of sweet and tart. We've perfected this balance in this recipe, ensuring a burst of lemony freshness in every bite, without being overwhelmingly sour. The shortbread crust is perfectly buttery and crumbly, providing a delightful contrast to the vibrant lemon filling.
Ingredients You'll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, chilled and cut into cubes
For the Lemon Filling:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions:
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Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine flour, powdered sugar, and salt in a medium bowl. Cut in the chilled butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9x13 inch baking pan. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
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Make the Lemon Filling: While the crust is baking, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Whisk in the lemon juice, flour, and lemon zest until well combined.
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Combine and Bake: Pour the lemon filling evenly over the hot, baked crust. Bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and no longer jiggles.
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Cool and Cut: Let the lemon bars cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. This allows the filling to set properly, resulting in clean, easy-to-serve bars. Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of elegance.
Tips for Lemon Bar Perfection:
- Use fresh lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice makes all the difference in flavor.
- Don't overbake: Overbaking can result in dry lemon bars. Check for doneness at the minimum baking time.
- Chill thoroughly: Allowing the bars to cool completely ensures a cleaner cut and prevents the filling from being too soft.
FAQs about Baking the Perfect Lemon Bars
Q: Can I use frozen lemons? A: While you can, fresh lemons will provide the best flavor and zest.
Q: How long do lemon bars last? A: Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, lemon bars will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
This recipe is your ticket to creating a truly unforgettable dessert. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake up a batch of these irresistible lemon bars. Your taste buds will thank you! Share your baking experience using #BestLemonBarsRecipe and tag us!
