Super Easy Lemon Bars

There’s nothing quite like the bright, tangy aroma of fresh lemons filling your kitchen as you whip up a batch of Super Easy Lemon Bars. These delightful treats come together in under an hour and are bursting with citrus flavor, thanks to the vibrant lemon juice and zest. The combination of a buttery shortbread crust and a smooth lemon curd filling makes them an irresistible dessert.

This recipe is perfect for lemon lovers and anyone who enjoys a sweet and tart treat. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, a cozy family gathering, or just craving something refreshing, these lemon bars fit the bill beautifully. Plus, they can be made ahead of time and stored for a few days, allowing you to enjoy them whenever the mood strikes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The shortbread crust provides a delightful crumbly texture that complements the creamy filling.
• Freshly squeezed lemon juice gives an authentic, zingy flavor.
• Quick to prepare, these bars bake in just 20 minutes.
• Topped with a light dusting of powdered sugar, they look as delightful as they taste.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients before you start baking your lemon bars.

For the Crust

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar

For the Lemon Filling

• 1/2 cup lemon juice (from 2-3 lemons)
• 1 tbsp lemon zest, finely grated
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, sifted

For Dusting

• Powdered sugar

Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for best results.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Coconut oil for butter
• Almond flour for all-purpose flour
• Agave syrup for granulated sugar

How to Make It

Creating these lemon bars is a straightforward process that will leave your kitchen smelling divine.

Prepare the crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine the softened butter, flour, and powdered sugar until smooth. Press this mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch pan.

Bake the crust

Bake the crust for 20 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden. Allow it to cool slightly before adding the filling.

Combine the filling

In a separate bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, eggs, granulated sugar, and sifted flour until fully incorporated and smooth.

Pour over crust

Pour the lemon filling over the pre-baked crust and return it to the oven. Bake for an additional 25 to 30 minutes, until the filling is set and slightly golden.

How to Store It

Fridge: store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: yes, freeze wrapped in plastic for up to 2 months.
Reheat: let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving.

Tips for Best Results

• Ensure your butter is at room temperature for a smoother crust.
• Don’t skip the lemon zest; it intensifies the flavor.
• Let the bars cool completely before slicing for clean edges.
• A light dusting of powdered sugar enhances both taste and presentation.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a refreshing dessert.
• Serve alongside a cup of herbal tea for an afternoon treat.
• Perfect for picnics or outdoor gatherings, bringing a touch of brightness.