Classic Lemon Bars for a Fresh, Tangy Treat
Crunchy buttery shortbread base topped with tangy lemon custard filling. Perfect balance of tartness and sweetness with velvety texture and crisp edges.
- Prep Time: 25
- Cook Time: 40
- Total Time: 65
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, melted
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 cup plus 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp salt
2 tbsp finely grated lemon zest
1/2 cup lemon juice, fresh
2 large eggs, room temperature
2 tbsp heavy cream
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
Line 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper
Combine butter, 3/4 cup sugar, 1 cup flour, salt, and lemon zest in bowl until dough forms
Press dough evenly into prepared pan
Bake 15 minutes until golden but undercooked
Whisk eggs, add remaining flour, lemon juice, and cream
Spread filling over partially baked crust
Bake 25 minutes until custard is set
Let cool completely before cutting into 16 bars
Notes
Use European-style butter for richest flavor
Double-baking crust ensures crisp texture
Coconut oil works for dairy-free crust
Fully chilled bars slice cleanly
Store in airtight container at room temperature up to 3 days
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 0.3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 80mg