Zesty Lemon Bars with a Buttery Shortbread Crust
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy a bit of sunshine on a plate? These lemon bars are just the ticket. Honestly, who can resist that tart lemon filling ? It’s a proper pick-me-up!
Brief Overview
Lemon bars are originally from America, but they're now a classic treat everywhere. Our lemon bar recipe is easy enough for a weekday bake, taking about an hour and a half, and makes around 9-12 bars.
You can serve them after dinner or even at a picnic.
Main Benefits
These easy lemon desserts are a zesty delight. Lemon zest is packed with Vitamin C, so they're practically healthy! They are perfect for afternoon tea and make a simple yet impressive homemade lemon treat .
What makes them special? That irresistible combination of a buttery shortbread crust and a tangy lemon filling .
Let's Talk Ingredients!
For the base of our amazing zesty lemon recipes , we start with our yummy shortbread crust. You will need 1 ½ cups of flour, ½ cup of sugar, and a pinch of salt.
Don't forget ½ cup of cold butter, one egg yolk, and a dash of vanilla extract.
Now, for the glorious tart lemon filling , grab four large eggs and 1 ½ cups of sugar. Six tablespoons of flour are going to be used too.
You can’t forget ½ cup of fresh lemon juice, ¼ cup of heavy cream, and 2 tablespoons of lemon zest .
step-by-step Guide
First, mix flour, sugar, and salt for the crust, then rub in the cold butter. Next, whisk the egg yolk and vanilla and add it to the mix.
Once that is done, press the mixture into a pan. Bake until it becomes a little golden. Now, for the filling, just whisk all ingredients together and pour over the baked crust.
Bake again until set. Let them cool down, then chill for at least two hours. Cut into squares and enjoy.
My Go-To Tips!
Always use cold butter for a crispier base. Don't overbake the filling, a slight wobble is good. Lastly, remember to use freshly squeezed lemon juice. It makes all the difference. Believe me!
Ingredients & Equipment for the Zestiest Lemon Bars Ever!
Honestly, who can resist a good lemon bar recipe ? These homemade lemon treats are just sunshine on a plate.
I'm sharing my go-to recipe for zesty lemon bars with the perfect balance of sweet and tart lemon filling . Before we dive in, let’s talk about what you'll need.
Main Ingredients: Lemon Power!
Here’s the rundown for making killer lemon bars . Remember, good ingredients make a huge difference. Think fresh, vibrant flavours!
For the Shortbread Crust:
- All-purpose flour: 1 ½ cups (192g) , plus extra for dusting
- Granulated sugar: ½ cup (100g)
- Salt: ½ teaspoon
- Unsalted butter: ½ cup (113g) , cold and cubed. Use high-quality butter. Trust me!
- Large egg yolk: 1
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
For the Lemon Filling:
- Large eggs: 4
- Granulated sugar: 1 ½ cups (300g)
- All-purpose flour: 6 tablespoons (85g)
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice : ½ cup (120ml) . That's from about 4-5 lemons. Go fresh; bottled juice just doesn't cut it.
- Heavy cream: ¼ cup (60ml)
- Lemon zest : 2 tablespoons . That's from about 2-3 lemons. Don't skip the zest, it's the heart of the flavor!
- Powdered sugar: For dusting (optional)
Seasoning Notes: Zest is Best!
Okay, about the flavour. We are making some citrus desserts right?
- Lemon zest is absolutely key.
- A tiny pinch of salt in the filling can enhance the sweetness.
- Vanilla extract rounds out the flavour.
If you're feeling adventurous, try a tiny pinch of cardamom in the shortbread. It adds a lovely warmth.
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple
You don’t need a fancy kitchen for these easy lemon desserts . Here’s what's essential:
- 9x13 inch baking pan
- Parchment paper (makes life so much easier)
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer)
- Lemon zester. Lemon zest is an important factor here.
- Lemon juicer. Use a proper one for the best extraction.
Cooking Up Sunshine: Zesty Lemon Bars
Right, so I've been messing about in the kitchen again, and oh my gosh , have I got a treat for you.
We're talking lemon bars the kind that make you squint and grin all at once. These aren't just any easy lemon desserts , they're the kind of homemade lemon treats that'll have your friends begging for the lemon bar recipe .
Honestly, who can resist that tart lemon filling and crumbly shortbread crust ? It's pure comfort food.
Prep Steps for Lemon Bar Perfection
Mise en place , darling! Get everything ready. Chop that butter, juice those lemons. I'm serious! Being organized will save you from a total kitchen meltdown.
And, psst , lemon zest is your secret weapon here. It really amps up that zesty lemon flavor. Safety first, though.
Watch those fingers when zesting and juicing.
Baking those Lemon Bars: step-by-step
Follow these instructions, and you will have amazing results:
- Crust time! Flour, sugar, salt in a bowl. Cut in cold, cubed butter.
- Egg yolk and vanilla go in. Mix just until combined.
- Press into a 9x13 inch pan lined with parchment. Prick it and chill for 30 minutes .
- Bake at 350° F ( 175° C) until lightly golden.
- Whisk eggs, sugar, flour, lemon juice, cream, and lemon zest.
- Pour filling over the baked crust.
- Bake again until set, about 35- 40 minutes . A slight wobble is perfect.
- Cool completely, then chill for at least 2 hours . Slice, dust with powdered sugar, and serve cold.
Pro Tips for Lemon Bar Brilliance
Cold butter is everything for a flaky shortbread crust . Don't overbake! A slight wobble is what you want. Chilling is crucial.
Trust me on this one. If you're short on time, make the shortbread crust the day before and keep it in the fridge.
Big time saver! A common mistake? Overbaking. Nobody wants rubbery lemon bars. You know?
So, there you have it! My take on lemon baking recipes that'll knock your socks off. Go on, give these beauties a go! They are wonderful citrus desserts .
Let me know how they turn out!
Recipe Notes: My Two Cents on Lemon Bars
Okay, so you're about to embark on a lemon bar recipe adventure! Honestly, I've made my fair share of homemade lemon treats , and I’ve learned a few things along the way.
These little tips will help you avoid some common pitfalls and create the perfect zesty lemon recipe .
Plating and Presentation Ideas for Citrus Desserts
Think of these lemon bars as mini works of art. A simple dusting of powdered sugar is classic. I personally love arranging them on a platter with fresh raspberries or blueberries.
The colours really pop, and it's just so inviting. For a fancy touch, you can create a zigzag pattern with melted chocolate.
Also a good presentation, add a lemon twist.
What to Pair with Your Tart Lemon Filling
Lemon bars and a cuppa? Perfect, innit? For a casual get-together, serve these easy lemon desserts with iced tea or lemonade.
Want something a bit more grown-up? A crisp glass of prosecco is chef's kiss . My nan swears by lemon bars and Earl Grey tea it's a classic combo!
Keeping Your Lemon Baking Recipes Fresh
Got leftovers? If there are any! These lemon bars are best stored in the fridge. They’ll keep for up to 4 days.
Make sure to put them in an airtight container. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months. Just wrap them individually in plastic wrap before freezing.
When you're ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the fridge overnight.
Recipe Tweaks for Everyone
Need to make these lemon bars gluten-free or dairy-free? No sweat! For gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. For dairy-free, sub in coconut cream.
Also, instead of butter in the shortbread crust , use a dairy-free butter substitute. Seasonal ingredient swaps could include using Meyer lemons when they are in season for a slightly sweeter flavor.
Nutrition Snapshot
Each serving of these lemon bars has roughly 350 calories, 4 grams of protein, 18 grams of fat, and 45 grams of carbohydrates, including 30 grams of sugar.
As the main health benefit you can enjoy Vitamin C from the lemon zest , which boosts your immune system! Remember, it's just an estimate!
Honestly, making these lemon bars is all about having a bit of fun in the kitchen. Don't be afraid to experiment with your own lemon zest twists. Happy baking!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my lemon bars cracked on top? Did I have a "soggy bottom" moment?
Cracked lemon bars are usually a sign of overbaking. Like a good Victoria Sponge, you want to avoid a dry, cracked top! Try reducing the baking time slightly next time, and remember a little wobble in the center is what you're aiming for.
Also, make sure your oven temperature is accurate; an oven thermometer is your best friend here!
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh for these lemon bars?
While you can use bottled lemon juice, freshly squeezed is always the best way to go for these lemon bars. Bottled juice often lacks the bright, vibrant flavor of fresh lemons. It's like using instant coffee instead of a proper espresso it'll do in a pinch, but you're missing out on the full experience.
How do I store these zesty lemon bars to keep them fresh?
To keep your lemon bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They'll stay good for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze them! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer safe bag or container. They'll keep for up to 2 months.
Just thaw them in the fridge before serving and dust with powdered sugar to freshen them up.
Can I make lemon bars ahead of time for a party or event?
Absolutely! Lemon bars are the perfect make-ahead dessert. Bake them a day or two in advance and store them in the refrigerator. This actually allows the flavors to meld together even more. Just dust them with powdered sugar right before serving to keep them looking their best. They are sure to be a crowd favorite.
What can I do if my shortbread crust is too crumbly or hard to work with?
A crumbly shortbread crust often means there isn't enough moisture. Try adding a tablespoon of ice water to the dough to help it come together. On the other hand, if it's too hard, you might have overworked it. Be gentle when mixing and pressing the dough into the pan.
Are these lemon bars healthy? What's the nutritional lowdown?
Let's be honest, lemon bars are a treat, not a health food! While they do contain some vitamin C from the lemons, they're also high in sugar and fat. Enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
For a slightly healthier twist, consider using whole wheat flour in the crust or reducing the amount of sugar in the filling.
Zesty Lemon Bars With A Buttery Shortbread Crust
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 350 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 18g |
| Fiber | 1g |
