Lemon Bars & Easy Lemon Meringue Bars Recipe
Recipe Overview
Overview
Lemon Bars are a classic dessert that perfectly balances sweetness and tartness, making them a favorite among many. The buttery shortbread crust serves as a delightful base for the zesty lemon custard, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The preparation is straightforward, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels. One of the standout features of this recipe is the use of fresh lemons, which truly elevates the taste. The vibrant lemon flavor shines through, especially when paired with the crisp, sweet crust.
As you prepare the crust, ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing. The process of docking the crust before baking is essential; it prevents the dough from puffing up and ensures an even bake. Once the lemon mixture is poured over the baked crust, it’s important to bake it until set, which usually takes about 25 minutes. The result is a beautifully golden top that hints at the deliciousness within.
After cooling, a light dusting of powdered sugar adds a lovely touch, making these bars not only tasty but visually appealing as well. They are best served chilled, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Whether you’re serving them at a spring gathering or simply enjoying them at home, these Lemon Bars are sure to impress. They also make a great addition to any dessert table, especially during festive occasions like Mother’s Day or summer picnics.
Recipe Details
Steps & Tips
In a bowl, combine room temperature butter, all-purpose flour, powdered sugar, salt, and vanilla extract.
Use the back of a spatula or wooden spoon to mash the butter with the dry ingredients until no flour is visible.
Dump the dough into a lightly oiled 8 by 8 baking dish and pat it down evenly.
Tip: Use room temperature butter for easier mixing.
Use a fork to prick the dough to help it cook evenly.
Bake the dough at 350 degrees for 22 minutes until just golden brown.
In a bowl, combine two large eggs, one extra egg yolk, granulated sugar, and flour.
Tip: Use a regular mixing bowl for easier stirring.
Add freshly squeezed lemon juice and lemon zest to the mixture and mix thoroughly.
Tip: Always use fresh lemons for the best flavor.
Pour the lemon mixture onto the baked shortbread base.
Bake in the oven at 350 degrees for 25 minutes until set.
Let the lemon bars cool completely before cutting.
Tip: Let the lemon bars cool completely before cutting for cleaner slices.
Tip: Dip the knife in hot water to clean it while cutting.
Cut the cooled lemon bars into 16 squares.
Tip: Lemon bars taste better when served cold.
Dust the bars with powdered sugar before serving.
Tip: Dust with powdered sugar for a nice finish.
Tip: Beat the leftover egg white to make a meringue for added texture.
Tip: Use a blowtorch to brown the meringue for a signature look.
Ingredients
Ingredient: Dairy
→ Substitution: Coconut Cream
Ingredient: Eggs
→ Substitution: Flaxseed Meal + Water
Nutrition
Skill Level
Frequently asked questions
Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.
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Interesting Tidbits
- •Using fresh lemons is crucial for the best flavor in lemon bars.
- •Docking the crust helps prevent it from bubbling during baking.
- •Letting the bars cool completely before cutting ensures clean slices.
- •A dusting of powdered sugar adds a sweet finish to the lemon bars.
