Description

These classic lemon bars feature a rich, buttery shortbread crust and a tangy, silky lemon custard filling. Perfect for parties, they are make-ahead friendly and visually stunning.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, room temperature
½ cup (60g) powdered sugar, sifted
2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
2 tablespoons lemon zest
4 large eggs, room temperature
2 tablespoons heavy cream
½ cup (120ml) fresh lemon juice
Extra powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the long sides, and grease lightly.
In a large bowl, beat butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy (2-3 minutes). Add vanilla and salt.
Gradually add flour and mix on low speed until just combined. Press dough firmly and evenly into the prepared pan.
Bake crust for 18-20 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Remove and let cool slightly while making filling.
In a separate bowl, whisk granulated sugar and lemon zest for 1 minute to release oils.
Add eggs and heavy cream, whisking vigorously until smooth and pale yellow.
Slowly stream in fresh lemon juice while whisking constantly until smooth.
Pour filling over the partially baked crust and spread evenly.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until edges are set and the center jiggles slightly like Jell-O.
Cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 1 hour.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours (preferably overnight) to firm up.
Lift bars out using parchment sling, dust with powdered sugar, and cut into squares.

Notes

Ensure ingredients are at room temperature for best texture. Do not overmix the filling to prevent cracking. Bars must be chilled completely before cutting to ensure clean slices. For a gluten-free version, use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 280
Sugar: 28
Sodium: 120
Fat: 14
Saturated Fat: 8
Carbohydrates: 38
Fiber: 1
Protein: 3

Keywords: lemon bars, shortbread crust, lemon dessert, baking, party food, make-ahead dessert, gluten-free option