Lemon Bars

Lemon Bars – A Tangy, Buttery Classic Dessert

Lemon Bars are a time-honored treat that combines a buttery shortbread crust with a bright, citrusy lemon layer. These bars are perfect for any season – refreshing in the summer and a burst of sunshine in the winter. They’re simple to make but offer a balance of sweet and tart that feels elegant and satisfying.

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s easy to serve at brunch, bring to a party, or simply enjoy with a cup of coffee, this is it. Lemon Bars deliver bakery-quality results right from your home kitchen.

The Ingredients That Make Lemon Bars Shine

These bars keep it simple, but each ingredient serves a purpose.

The crust is made with butter, sugar, and flour – a classic shortbread combination! A pinch of salt keeps the sweetness from becoming overwhelming and enhances the overall flavor.

The lemon layer is where the magic happens. It’s made with freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, eggs, and a bit of flour. Using fresh lemons instead of bottled juice makes a noticeable difference in flavor. A final dusting of powdered sugar not only adds sweetness but also gives the bars a polished, professional look.

How to Make Lemon Bars (Without Overthinking It)

You don’t need fancy equipment or chef skills to pull this off.

It starts by mixing and pressing the shortbread crust into a baking pan and baking until just golden. This helps prevent sogginess when the lemon layer is added.

Next, you whisk together the lemon filling until smooth and pour it over the warm crust. The bars are baked again until the filling is set.  Finally, allow the bars to cool and chill before slicing.

The key to success? Let them chill for at least an hour before cutting. This step ensures clean, tidy squares and helps the flavors meld.

Tips for Lemon Bar Success

Before you bake, keep these tips in mind:

• Use fresh lemons – The flavor is unmatched.

• Don’t overbake – The center should still have a slight jiggle.

• Chill before slicing – Refrigerate for at least an hour to firm up the filling.

• Dust at the end – Powdered sugar dissolves over time; wait until right before serving.

These simple tricks will take your lemon bars from good to bakery-worthy.

What to Serve with Lemon Bars

Lemon Bars are versatile and play well with other flavors:

• Berries – Strawberries or raspberries complement the lemon and add a pop of color.

• Whipped cream – A soft topping that contrasts the bright lemon flavor.

• Coffee or iced tea – A simple pairing that brings balance.

• Vanilla ice cream – Makes it a complete plated dessert.

Whether casual or formal, Lemon Bars work with just about any setting.

Other Recipes to Try

If you love light and zesty desserts, try these other favorites from Sisters Know Best:

• All-Occasion Vanilla Cake Recipe – A reliable vanilla cake that’s perfect for birthdays or layering.

• Chocolate Avocado Mousse – A rich, creamy treat with a healthy twist.

• Healthy Pumpkin Brownies – Fudgy brownies made with nutritious pumpkin puree.

Explore Lemon’s Global Appeal

Lemon desserts have a long culinary history. From lemon tarts in France to Middle Eastern lemon-infused cakes, citrus-based sweets are beloved around the world. If you’re curious about lemon recipes in various cultures, check out this roundup.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls – For prepping crust and filling.

• Whisk – Blends the lemon mixture until smooth.

• Electric mixer – Helps cream the crust ingredients easily.

• 9×9-inch baking pan – Ensures even baking for a perfect square.

• Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and simplifies cleanup.

• Spatula – Helps spread and level the lemon layer.

• Fine-mesh sieve – Used to dust powdered sugar evenly.

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s bright, simple, and crowd-pleasing, Lemon Bars check every box. The buttery crust and vibrant lemon filling offer just the right mix of richness and tartness. Try them for your next gathering – or just because you love lemon!

Lemon Bars

A buttery shortbread crust topped with a smooth, tangy lemon filling for the perfect balance of sweet and citrusy flavors.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Chill Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 55 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 12 Servings

Equipment

• Mixing Bowls For preparing the crust and lemon filling.
• whisk Ensures a smooth, lump-free lemon filling.
• Electric mixer Helps achieve a light and creamy texture.
• 9x9-inch baking pan The perfect size for even baking.
• Parchment paper Prevents sticking and makes removal easier.
• Spatula Helps spread the filling evenly over the crust.
• Fine-mesh sieve For dusting powdered sugar on top.

Ingredients

  

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For the Crust:

• 1 cup unsalted butter softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Lemon Filling:

• 1 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

 

Prepare the Crust:

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
• In a mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until creamy.
• Add the flour and salt, mixing until a crumbly dough forms.
• Press evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 18-20 minutes until lightly golden.

Make the Lemon Filling:

• In a separate bowl, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, eggs, and flour until smooth.
• Pour the lemon filling over the warm crust
• Bake for an additional 22-25 minutes or until the center is set.
• Let the bars cool completely before refrigerating for at least 1 hour.
• Dust with powdered sugar before slicing into squares.

Notes

For Extra Tanginess: Add an extra ½ tablespoon of lemon zest for a stronger citrus flavor.
Make It Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter for vegan butter or coconut oil.
For a Firmer Texture: Let the bars chill in the fridge overnight before serving.
Storage: Keep refrigerated for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Keyword dessert, lemon

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