Lemon Bars

Lemon Bars

Lemon bars are a delicious and tangy dessert made with a buttery shortbread crust and a luscious lemon filling. They offer a delightful combination of sweet and tart flavors. Here's a simple recipe for you to enjoy:

Ingredients:

For the crust:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the lemon filling:

• 1 and 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 large eggs
• 2/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for extra lemon flavor)
• Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easier removal.

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3. For the crust, in a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

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5. Gradually add the flour and salt to the butter mixture. Mix until the dough comes together and is crumbly.

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7. Press the dough into the bottom of the prepared baking dish in an even layer.

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9. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 15-18 minutes or until it turns lightly golden. Remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.

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11. While the crust is cooling, prepare the lemon filling. In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and flour.

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13. Add the eggs to the sugar and flour mixture and whisk until well combined.

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15. Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and lemon zest (if using) until the filling is smooth and creamy.

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17. Pour the lemon filling over the slightly cooled crust, spreading it out evenly.

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19. Bake the lemon bars for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the filling is set and no longer jiggles when you gently shake the pan.

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21. Remove the lemon bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the baking dish on a wire rack.

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23. Once cooled, you can dust the top with powdered sugar for a lovely finishing touch.

24. Carefully cut the lemon bars into squares using a sharp knife.

Serve these refreshing and zesty lemon bars as a delightful treat for any occasion. They are perfect for parties, potlucks, or simply as a sweet pick-me-up on a sunny day. Enjoy