Lemon Bars With Shortbread Crust Recipe

Lemon bars with a buttery shortbread crust are a perfect balance of tangy and sweet, making them a favorite for both casual snacks and special occasions. Whether you're new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is easy to follow and will leave you with delicious, mouth-watering bars. Ready to make the best lemon bars you've ever tasted? Read on for the ultimate recipe, complete with substitutions, variations, and pro tips to ensure your lemon bars come out perfect every time!

What are Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust?

Lemon bars are a delightful dessert made with two primary layers: a rich, buttery shortbread crust and a tangy lemon filling. The shortbread provides a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth foundation, while the lemon topping adds a zesty flavor that complements the sweetness. This classic dessert is popular for its simplicity and its ability to please a crowd. Whether you're baking for a potluck, holiday event, or just to satisfy a citrus craving, lemon bars are an ideal choice.

Ingredients List for Lemon Bars

For the Shortbread Crust:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, but adds extra flavor)

For the Lemon Filling:

• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature
• ½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)
• Zest of 2 lemons (optional, but recommended for added zing)
• ¼ teaspoon baking powder
• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional, for decoration)

Substitutions and Variations

There are endless ways to modify this lemon bar recipe to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Here are some ideas for substitutions and variations:

1. Gluten-Free Option: Replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend includes xanthan gum to mimic the texture of traditional flour.
2. Dairy-Free Shortbread: Substitute the butter with a high-quality dairy-free butter alternative, like coconut oil or margarine, for a plant-based twist.
3. Lime or Orange Bars: Swap out the lemon juice and zest for lime or orange for a different citrus flavor. Lime bars have a more tart kick, while orange bars are sweeter with a fragrant aroma.
4. Lower Sugar Version: Use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener for the filling. This will alter the texture slightly but can make a healthier dessert for those watching their sugar intake.
5. Graham Cracker Crust: For a twist on the classic, use crushed graham crackers combined with melted butter instead of the shortbread crust. This adds a more crumbly, rustic texture and a hint of sweetness.
6. Add Berries: Fresh or frozen raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries can be scattered over the filling before baking for a fruity complement to the lemon.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

How to Cook Lemon Bars: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper for easier removal later.
2. Prepare the shortbread crust:
   • In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until smooth and fluffy. This can be done by hand or using an electric mixer.
   • Add the vanilla extract (if using) and mix to combine.
   • Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until just combined. The dough should be crumbly but hold together when pressed.
   • Press the dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Make sure the layer is even and smooth for a uniform crust.
   • Bake the crust for 18-20 minutes or until it's lightly golden brown around the edges. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
3. Prepare the lemon filling:
   • In another bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, flour, and baking powder.
   • Add the eggs one at a time, whisking continuously to ensure they are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
   • Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest. The mixture should be smooth and slightly runny.
4. Assemble and bake:
   • Pour the lemon filling over the pre-baked shortbread crust. Tilt the pan gently to ensure the filling covers the entire surface.
   • Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the filling is set and the top is slightly golden.
   • Remove from the oven and let the lemon bars cool completely in the pan.
5. Dust with powdered sugar: Once the bars have cooled, sift powdered sugar over the top for a beautiful, sweet finish. Use a serrated knife to cut the bars into squares or rectangles for serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Undercooking the Crust: Make sure the shortbread crust is slightly golden before adding the lemon filling. If the crust is undercooked, it can become soggy when the filling is added.
2. Not Using Fresh Lemons: Bottled lemon juice lacks the brightness and zing of fresh lemons. Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest give the bars their signature tangy flavor.
3. Cutting Bars Too Soon: Be patient! Wait until the bars are completely cooled before cutting them. If you cut them while still warm, the filling can ooze out, and the bars may not hold their shape.
4. Not Whisking the Filling Well Enough: Make sure the filling is whisked until smooth. Any lumps of flour or sugar will affect the texture of the bars.
5. Overbaking the Filling: Keep an eye on the bars in the oven. Overbaking will cause the filling to become rubbery. You want the top to be set but still slightly soft in the center.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Lemon Bars

Lemon bars can be served chilled or at room temperature. They are a versatile dessert perfect for many occasions, including:

• Brunches or Tea Parties: Lemon bars pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee.
• Dessert Tables: Serve lemon bars at potlucks, picnics, or family gatherings for a simple yet elegant treat.
• Holiday Events: They make a bright and zesty addition to your holiday dessert spread, especially around spring and summer.

Presentation Ideas for Lemon Bars

For a more polished presentation, try some of these ideas:

• Dust with powdered sugar: This classic topping adds a sweet, delicate look.
• Add edible flowers: Garnish the plate with a few edible flowers like pansies or lavender for an Instagram-worthy dessert.
• Serve with whipped cream: Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on the side for an extra indulgent touch.
• Layer with fresh berries: Garnish each bar with fresh raspberries or blueberries for a pop of color and flavor contrast.
• Use stencils: Get creative with a stencil and powdered sugar for intricate designs on top.

Lemon Bars Recipe Tips

• Use room-temperature eggs: This helps the filling to mix more evenly and bake smoothly.
• Zest first, juice later: It’s much easier to zest lemons before juicing them.
• Don’t overbake: The bars are ready when the filling has set but is still a bit jiggly in the center. They will firm up as they cool.
• Store in the fridge: Lemon bars are best stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container. They can last up to 4 days, or you can freeze them for longer storage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I freeze lemon bars? Yes, lemon bars freeze very well. Once completely cooled, place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

2. Can I make lemon bars in advance? Absolutely! Lemon bars can be made a day or two ahead of time and stored in the fridge. They actually taste better after chilling for several hours or overnight as the flavors develop.

3. Do I have to refrigerate lemon bars? Yes, it's best to refrigerate lemon bars due to the eggs in the filling. They can be left at room temperature for a few hours, but for longer storage, keep them in the fridge.

4. Can I use lime or orange instead of lemon? Yes, you can substitute lemon juice with lime or orange juice for a different citrus flavor. Lime bars are more tart, while orange bars are sweeter.

5. Why is my crust soggy? A soggy crust can result from not pre-baking the shortbread enough. Make sure the crust is golden and firm before adding the lemon filling.

Conclusion

Lemon bars with shortbread crust are a timeless dessert that brings together the perfect combination of buttery and tangy flavors. By following these step-by-step instructions and tips, you’ll create lemon bars that are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you're making them for a special event or just as a treat for yourself, these bars are easy to prepare and absolutely delicious. Enjoy baking!

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