The Best Lemon Bars – Bright, Tangy, Buttery, and Irresistibly
The Best Lemon Bars combine a buttery shortbread crust with a smooth, tangy lemon filling for the ultimate citrus dessert. These bars are easy to prepare and feature a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. Fresh lemon juice provides vibrant flavor, while powdered sugar adds a beautiful finishing touch. Ideal for parties, holidays, afternoon tea, and everyday treats, lemon bars are both elegant and comforting. Their refreshing taste makes them especially popular during spring and summer gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Shortbread Crust
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Lemon Filling
- 4 large eggs
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ⅔ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
For Garnish
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, combine butter, sugar, flour, and salt until a soft dough forms.
- Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Bake the crust for 18–20 minutes or until lightly golden.
- While the crust bakes, whisk together eggs, sugar, flour, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
- Pour the lemon mixture over the hot baked crust.
- Return to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes until the filling is set.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours for the best texture.
- Dust generously with powdered sugar, slice into squares, and serve.
Notes
- Fresh lemon juice provides the best flavour.
- Chill before slicing for clean edges.
- Use parchment paper for easy removal.
- Avoid overbaking the filling.
- Dust powdered sugar just before serving.
- Meyer lemons create a sweeter flavour.
- Store refrigerated for freshness.
- Bars taste even better the next day.