Lemon bars are one of those timeless desserts that strike the perfect balance between sweet and tart. With a buttery shortbread crust and a zesty lemon filling, they are refreshing, bright, and always a crowd-pleaser. The best part is that making lemon bars at home is much easier than you might think. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch that tastes bakery-quality.
Ingredients
For the crust
- 200 g all-purpose flour
- 65 g granulated sugar
- 115 g unsalted butter, softened
- Pinch of salt
For the filling
- 200 g granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 120 ml freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2–3 lemons)
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Icing sugar, for dusting
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line a 20×20 cm (8×8 inch) baking dish with parchment paper. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, butter, and a pinch of salt until a crumbly dough forms. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared dish. Bake for 15–18 minutes until lightly golden.
Step 2: Make the Lemon Filling
In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, lemon juice, flour, and lemon zest until smooth. Make sure there are no lumps.
Step 3: Bake the Bars
Pour the lemon filling over the warm crust and return to the oven. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the center is set and no longer jiggly. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing. Dust the top with icing sugar just before serving for a classic finish.
Tips for Success
- Use fresh lemons: Fresh juice and zest give the best flavor compared to bottled lemon juice.
- Cool completely before cutting: This ensures clean slices and a set filling.
- Line your pan: Parchment paper makes it easy to lift out the bars for neat cutting.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a tangier bar, reduce the sugar in the filling slightly.
Variations
- Meyer lemon bars: Swap regular lemons for Meyer lemons for a sweeter, floral taste.
- Gluten-free option: Replace the flour with a gluten-free baking blend.
- Extra zest: Add more lemon zest for a stronger citrus punch.
- Berry twist: Top with fresh raspberries or blueberries before chilling.
How to Serve Lemon Bars
Lemon bars are best served chilled, dusted with icing sugar. They make a light dessert after a heavy meal, a refreshing treat at afternoon tea, or a sweet addition to brunch. Pair with coffee, tea, or a glass of sparkling water.
Easy lemon bars are a classic dessert that deliver bold citrus flavor in every bite. With a crumbly shortbread crust and a bright lemony filling, they’re simple to make and always impressive. Whether you are baking for a party, family gathering, or just craving something sweet and tangy, this recipe guarantees a fresh and delicious result every time.
