Buttery shortbread + bright lemon filling = pure dessert magic. These classic lemon bars are simple, fresh, and always a crowd-pleaser!
π Ingredients
Shortbread Crust
1 cup salted butter, sliced
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
Lemon Layer
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
4 large eggs
1 cup fresh lemon juice
β¨ Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
π©βπ³ Instructions
1οΈβ£ Preheat & Prep
Preheat oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C).
Line a 9Γ13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2οΈβ£ Make the Shortbread Crust
In a large bowl, combine 2 cups flour and 1/2 cup sugar.
Cut in the sliced butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture looks crumbly.
Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
β
Bake for 18β20 minutes until lightly golden.
3οΈβ£ Prepare the Lemon Filling
While the crust bakes:
In a bowl, whisk together:
1 1/2 cups sugar
1/4 cup flour
Add the eggs and whisk until smooth.
Stir in the lemon juice until fully combined.
4οΈβ£ Bake the Bars
Pour the lemon mixture over the hot baked crust.
Return pan to the oven.
Bake for 20β25 minutes, until the center is set and no longer jiggly.
5οΈβ£ Cool & Finish
Let bars cool completely at room temperature.
Chill in the fridge for cleaner cuts (recommended).
Dust generously with powdered sugar before serving. β¨
πͺ Cutting Tips
Use a sharp knife and wipe between cuts.
For perfect squares, chill at least 2 hours first.
π‘ Pro Tips
Fresh lemon juice gives the brightest flavor π
Donβt overbake β the center should be just set.
For extra zing, add 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional upgrade).
π§ Storage
Fridge: up to 5 days (covered)
Freezer: up to 2 months (well wrapped)
β¨π 5-Ingredient Lemon Bars β Sweet, Tangy & Irresistible! πβ¨