Lemon Cream Bars Recipe

Lemon Cream Bars Recipe

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These bright and tangy lemon cream bars feature a buttery shortbread crust, a creamy lemon filling, and a light dusting of powdered sugar. They’re perfect for spring and summer gatherings!  

Ingredients:

  • For the Crust:
    • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour  
    • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • 1 cup (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
  • For the Lemon Cream Filling:
    • 4 large eggs
    • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
    • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
    • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
    • 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
    • 2 tablespoons lemon zest
    • powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Crust:
    • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.  
    • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, powdered sugar, and salt.
    • Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry blender or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
    • Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan, creating an even layer.
    • Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden.
    • Let the crust cool while preparing the filling.
  2. Prepare the Lemon Cream Filling:
    • In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar until well combined.
    • Whisk in the flour and baking powder.
    • Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest until smooth.
  3. Bake the Bars:
    • Pour the lemon cream filling evenly over the pre-baked crust.
    • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and the center is no longer jiggly.
    • Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
  4. Finish and Serve:
    • Once completely cooled, dust the top of the bars with powdered sugar.
    • Use the parchment paper sides to lift the bars from the pan. Then cut them into squares or rectangles.
    • Serve and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Lemon Cream Bars:

  • Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor.
  • Don’t overbake the crust, as it will continue to cook as the filling bakes.
  • Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to prevent the filling from being runny.
  • For a more intense lemon flavor, increase the amount of lemon zest.
  • For a firmer filling, be sure to bake the bars until the middle is set.
  • For clean cuts, allow the bars to fully cool, and use a sharp knife.

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