These lemon cream bars are a delightful combination of a buttery shortbread crust, a tangy lemon cream filling, and a light, creamy topping. Perfect for a sunny afternoon treat!
Ingredients:
- For the Shortbread Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups (180g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks or 226g) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- For the Lemon Cream Filling:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (120ml) fresh lemon juice (about 4-5 lemons)
- 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Zest of 2 lemons
- For the Creamy Topping:
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
- Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry blender or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan to form a crust.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let it cool completely.
- Make the Lemon Cream Filling:
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the eggs, sugar, lemon juice, heavy cream, and salt.
- Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 8-10 minutes). Do not boil.
- Remove from heat and stir in the lemon zest.
- Pour the lemon cream filling over the cooled crust and spread evenly.
- Bake for 20 minutes, until the filling is set.
- Let it cool completely in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
- Prepare the Creamy Topping:
- In a chilled bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
- Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract and continue to beat until stiff peaks form.
- Assemble and Serve:
- Spread the whipped cream evenly over the cooled lemon cream filling.
- Cut into bars and serve.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
Enjoy your delicious lemon cream bars!