Why Make This Recipe
Buttery Lemon Bars are a delightful treat that combines rich, buttery goodness with a refreshing citrusy twist. They are perfect for any occasion, from a casual family gathering to a festive celebration. The bright, tangy flavor of lemon balances perfectly with the buttery base, making each bite a little piece of heaven. Plus, they are simple to make and can be enjoyed by kids and adults alike!
How to Make Buttery Lemon Bars
Making Buttery Lemon Bars is an easy and straightforward process. Follow these instructions to create this delicious dessert:
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice until well combined.
- Gradually mix in the flour and salt until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack, then dust with powdered sugar before slicing into bars.
How to Serve Buttery Lemon Bars
Buttery Lemon Bars are best served chilled or at room temperature. Cut them into squares or rectangles and dust a bit of powdered sugar on top for a sweet finish. They make a wonderful dessert on their own, but you can also serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat.
How to Store Buttery Lemon Bars
To keep your Buttery Lemon Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them for a longer period, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. For extended storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
Tips to Make Buttery Lemon Bars
- Make sure to use fresh lemons for the best flavor. The zest and juice are what give these bars their signature taste.
- Don’t overmix the batter once you add the flour; mix until just combined to keep the bars light and tender.
- For a firmer texture, you can chill the bars in the refrigerator for an hour after baking.
Variation
If you want to try something different, consider adding a layer of citrus glaze on top after the bars have cooled. Simply mix powdered sugar with a little lemon juice to create a sweet drizzle.
FAQs
Can I make Buttery Lemon Bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can make them a day or two in advance. They store well in the fridge.
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
While you can use bottled lemon juice, fresh lemons will give you a brighter and fresher flavor.
What can I do if my bars are too sour?
If you find your bars too sour, you can add a bit more sugar to the batter next time or serve with a sweet topping like whipped cream or ice cream to balance the tartness.
Buttery Lemon Bars
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice until well combined.
- Gradually mix in the flour and salt until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack, then dust with powdered sugar before slicing into bars.
