Why Make This Recipe
Zesty lemon bars bring a bright and cheerful flavor to any dessert table. They are perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or a refreshing treat on a sunny day. If you enjoy lemon flavors, you might also appreciate our creamy lemon cheesecake crumb bars that offer a different yet delightful taste.
How to Make Zesty Lemon Bars
Making zesty lemon bars is simple and rewarding. With fresh ingredients and a straightforward process, you can have these delicious bars ready to enjoy in no time. You may also find 30 Minute Lemon Chicken Easy Butter Skillet Dinner useful.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3½ cups granulated sugar, divided
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, divided
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- 8 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice
- Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
- Garnish: lemon zest
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 13×9-inch metal baking pan with parchment paper.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat butter and ½ cup of granulated sugar at medium speed until creamy, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour and salt. With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, beating just until combined. Gather the dough into a ball and flatten it into a disk. Transfer the dough to the prepared pan, pressing it into the bottom.
- Bake until lightly browned, about 15 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan on a wire rack.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, and remaining 3 cups of granulated sugar. Add the remaining 1 cup of flour, whisking to combine.
- Pour the filling onto the prepared crust. Bake until set, about 25 to 30 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before cutting into bars.
- Dust the bars with confectioners’ sugar and garnish with lemon zest, if desired. You can keep the bars refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
How to Serve Zesty Lemon Bars
Zesty lemon bars are delicious on their own but can be enhanced with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They are also a wonderful addition to a dessert platter. If you are in the mood for another lemon recipe, try our zesty lemon pecorino crusted chicken for a savory twist.
How to Store Zesty Lemon Bars
To preserve their freshness, store the lemon bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for about five days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. You may also find A Lemon Cake To Die For useful.
Tips to Make Zesty Lemon Bars
- Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
- For an extra zesty twist, try adding more lemon zest to the filling.
Variation
Consider adding a layer of meringue on top before baking for a different texture. Or, experiment by adding blueberries for a fruity mix. If you enjoy pasta dishes, check out our zesty lemon ricotta spinach pasta as a side!
FAQs
1. Can I use bottled lemon juice?
While fresh lemon juice is preferred for taste, you can use bottled juice in a pinch.
2. How do I know when my lemon bars are done?
The bars are done when the filling is set and no longer wobbly in the center.
3. Can I freeze these lemon bars?
Yes, you can freeze lemon bars wrapped tightly for up to three months for best quality.
Conclusion
These lemon bars are a delightful treat that will impress your family and friends. For different takes on lemon desserts, you might want to explore the Zesty Lemon Bars – Joy + Oliver or try the Zesty Lemon Bars – Elizabeth Karmel for additional recipes! Enjoy your journey into the world of zesty flavors!
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Zesty Lemon Bars
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Bright and cheerful lemon bars, perfect for any dessert table, gatherings, or as a refreshing treat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3½ cups granulated sugar, divided
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, divided
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- 8 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice
- Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
- Garnish: lemon zest
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 13×9-inch metal baking pan with parchment paper.
- Beat butter and ½ cup of granulated sugar in a stand mixer at medium speed until creamy, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Whisk together 2 cups of flour and salt in a medium bowl. With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, beating just until combined. Gather the dough into a ball and flatten it into a disk. Transfer the dough to the prepared pan, pressing it into the bottom.
- Bake until lightly browned, about 15 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan on a wire rack.
- Whisk together the eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, and remaining 3 cups of granulated sugar in a large bowl. Add the remaining 1 cup of flour, whisking to combine.
- Pour the filling onto the prepared crust. Bake until set, about 25 to 30 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely. Refrigerate for at least 240 minutes or overnight before cutting into bars.
- Dust the bars with confectioners’ sugar and garnish with lemon zest, if desired.
Notes
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Can be frozen wrapped tightly for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 60mg