How To Make Lemon Bars

Paula Deen

Video Stats

Channel: Paula Deen
Host: Paula Deen
Published: Aug 2, 2025
Views: 18.4k

Recipe Overview

Prep: 15 min
Cook: 45 min
Difficulty: Intermediate
Serves: 12

Overview

Lemon bars are a timeless treat that never fail to impress. The combination of a buttery, crumbly crust and a sweet-tart lemon filling makes them irresistible. In this recipe, Paula Deen expertly guides you through the process, starting with the crust, which is made from all-purpose flour, confectioners’ sugar, and butter. The key is to mix the ingredients until they resemble coarse crumbs before pressing them into the pan.

Once the crust is baked to a golden perfection, the filling comes together with just a few simple ingredients: sugar, flour, eggs, and fresh lemon juice. The addition of a pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even add lemon zest for an extra citrus kick.

After pouring the filling over the crust, it bakes until set, creating a luscious layer of lemon goodness. The final touch is a dusting of powdered sugar, which adds a beautiful finish and a hint of sweetness. These lemon bars are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a spring picnic, a baby shower, or simply a sweet treat to enjoy at home. They are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.

Recipe Details

Steps & Tips

1
00:54

Combine one cup of all-purpose flour and one cup of confectioner sugar.

2
01:36

Add a pinch of salt to the dry mixture.

3
01:47

Cut two sticks of room temperature butter into the dry ingredients until crumbly.

02:51

Tip: If you want a thicker crust, use a 9 by 9 pan instead of a 13 by 9.

03:06

Tip: Cut the butter into the dry ingredients first for better texture.

4
03:09

Spray a 9 by 9 or 13 by 9 pan with butter flavor spray.

5
03:45

Bake the crust in the oven at 350°F for 20 minutes.

6
04:25

In a bowl, mix sugar, flour, and a little salt for the filling.

7
05:17

Beat the eggs and pour them into the filling mixture.

8
05:31

Add six tablespoons of lemon juice to the filling.

05:39

Tip: You can add lemon zest or lemon extract for extra flavor in the filling.

9
05:59

Pour the filling over the baked crust.

10
06:23

Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25 minutes.

07:58

Tip: Let the lemon bars cool completely before cutting them.

Ingredients

Serves: 12
Allergen Alerts

Ingredient: Dairy

    → Substitution: Coconut Oil

Ingredient: Eggs

    → Substitution: Flaxseed Meal + Water

Nutrition

Calories
220
kcal per serving
Protein
2
per serving
Carbs
30
per serving

Skill Level

Skill Level Intermediate
Beginner Intermediate Advanced

Frequently asked questions

Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.

Got a Recipe Question? Ask Away!

Interesting Tidbits

  • Lemon bars are a popular dessert that combines a buttery crust with a tangy lemon filling.
  • Using room temperature butter helps create a smooth and crumbly crust.
  • Lemon zest can enhance the flavor of the filling, adding a fresh citrus aroma.
  • Allowing lemon bars to cool before cutting helps maintain their shape.