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There’s something magical about the zesty tang of lemon combined with a buttery crust that melts in your mouth. This Best Lemon Pie Bars Recipe – Quick & Irresistible is the perfect treat for any occasion, from casual family gatherings to elegant tea parties. With their refreshing flavor and simple preparation, these lemon bars are destined to become your go-to dessert.
Why Lemon Pie Bars Are a Crowd-Pleaser
Lemon pie bars strike the perfect balance between tart and sweet, making them a universally loved dessert. They’re easy to make, require minimal ingredients, and deliver a stunning presentation. Plus, their refreshing citrus flavor is a delightful change from richer desserts like chocolate or caramel.
Ingredients for Lemon Pie Bars
Here’s everything you need to create these delicious lemon bars. The ingredients are likely already in your pantry and fridge, making this recipe both convenient and budget-friendly.
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Crust Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
All-purpose flour | 2 ½ cups |
Confectioners’ sugar | ½ cup |
Butter (softened) | 1 cup |
Lemon Filling Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Eggs | 4 |
White sugar | 1 ½ cups |
All-purpose flour | 4 tablespoons |
Lemon juice | ½ cup |
Lemon zest | 1 tablespoon |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Workspace
Before you begin, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Make the Crust
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine 2 ¼ cups of flour and ½ cup confectioners’ sugar.
- Cut in 1 cup of softened butter using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, ensuring the surface is smooth and compact.
- Bake the crust for 15-20 minutes, or until it turns a light golden brown. Remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Lemon Filling
- In a large bowl, whisk together:
- 4 eggs
- 1 ½ cups white sugar
- 4 tablespoons flour
- ½ cup lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- Beat the mixture for at least 1 minute to ensure it’s well combined and slightly frothy.
4. Assemble and Bake
- Pour the lemon mixture over the partially baked crust, spreading it evenly.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly firm to the touch.
- Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan.
5. Add the Finishing Touch
Once cooled, sprinkle the top generously with confectioners’ sugar for a classic, bakery-style finish. Cut the bars into squares or rectangles and serve.
Tips for Perfect Lemon Bars
1. Use Fresh Lemons
Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest make a huge difference in flavor. Bottled lemon juice doesn’t have the same vibrant taste.
2. Avoid Overbaking
Keep an eye on the bars during the second bake. Overbaking can result in a rubbery filling instead of a silky, custard-like texture.
3. Chill Before Cutting
For clean, sharp edges, refrigerate the bars for at least an hour before slicing.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
These lemon pie bars are:
- Quick and Simple: Ready in under an hour with minimal effort.
- Versatile: Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or a midweek treat.
- Customizable: Add a hint of vanilla or a sprinkle of toasted coconut for a unique twist.
Nutritional Information
Nutrient | Per Serving (1 bar) |
---|---|
Calories | 200 |
Total Fat | 10g |
Saturated Fat | 6g |
Cholesterol | 55mg |
Sodium | 80mg |
Total Carbohydrates | 26g |
Sugars | 18g |
Protein | 2g |
Creative Variations
1. Add a Berry Swirl
Drop small dollops of raspberry or blueberry jam onto the lemon filling before baking. Use a toothpick to swirl the jam for a marbled effect.
2. Make It Gluten-Free
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix to accommodate dietary restrictions.
3. Add a Crumble Topping
Sprinkle a buttery oat crumble on top of the lemon layer before baking for added texture and flavor.
4. Coconut-Lemon Bars
Mix shredded coconut into the crust or sprinkle it on top for a tropical twist.
FAQ
1. Can I freeze lemon pie bars?
Yes! Once cooled and cut, wrap the bars individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
2. How do I store leftover bars?
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For best results, layer parchment paper between the bars to prevent sticking.
3. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While margarine can be used, butter provides a richer flavor and better texture.
4. What’s the best way to zest a lemon?
Use a microplane or fine grater to zest the yellow outer layer of the lemon. Avoid the white pith, as it can be bitter.
5. Why is my filling too runny?
Runny filling can result from underbaking. Ensure the bars are fully set in the oven before removing them.
6. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Use a larger baking dish or two pans, and adjust the baking time slightly if needed.
Make These Bars Today!
There’s no better time to try this Best Lemon Pie Bars Recipe – Quick & Irresistible. With their bright flavor and easy preparation, these bars are sure to bring a burst of sunshine to your day. Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a dessert that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat!
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Best Lemon Pie Bars Recipe – Quick & Irresistible
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 24 bars
Description
Experience the perfect blend of tangy lemon and buttery crust in these Lemon Pie Bars. Quick to prepare and irresistibly delicious, these bars are a hit for every occasion—whether it’s a casual family dessert or an elegant tea party.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1 cup butter (softened)
For the Lemon Filling
- 4 eggs
- 1 ½ cups white sugar
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ½ cup lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Mix flour and confectioners’ sugar in a bowl. Add softened butter and combine until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press evenly into the baking pan and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown. Let it cool slightly.
- Make the Filling:
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, flour, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth and frothy.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Pour the lemon mixture over the pre-baked crust.
- Bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the filling is set.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the bars cool completely, then sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar.
- Slice into squares or rectangles and enjoy!
Notes
- Use fresh lemons for the best flavor.
- Chill the bars before slicing for clean edges.
- Avoid overbaking to maintain a creamy filling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American