These Creamy Lemon Bars are the perfect balance of tart and sweet, with a velvety lemon custard filling that melts in your mouth, sitting atop a buttery shortbread crust. Ideal for springtime picnics, family gatherings, or simply as a delightful treat to brighten your day, these bars are as easy to make as they are delicious. The creamy filling is packed with fresh lemon juice and zest, giving it a vibrant flavor that pairs beautifully with the crumbly, golden crust. With a dusting of powdered sugar on top, these bars are as visually appealing as they are tasty.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the filling:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ⅔ cup fresh lemon juice (about 3–4 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For topping:
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare the crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough comes together.
- Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish, creating a smooth layer.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Make the filling:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar until well combined.
- Sift in the flour, then stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until smooth.
- Pour the lemon mixture over the warm crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake the bars:
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the filling is set and no longer jiggles in the center.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting.
- Finish and serve:
- Once chilled, use a sharp knife to cut the bars into squares or rectangles.
- Dust generously with powdered sugar before serving.
Enjoy these Creamy Lemon Bars chilled for a refreshing dessert or snack! They keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days.
