Description
Bright, tangy, and utterly irresistible, Lemon Dream Bars feature a buttery shortbread crust topped with a luscious lemon filling. Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or a refreshing sweet treat, these easy-to-make bars will be a favorite for citrus lovers.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 tsp salt
For the Lemon Filling:
4 large eggs
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking powder
2/3 cup fresh lemon juice (about 3–4 lemons)
Zest of 2 lemons
For the Topping:
Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add flour and salt, mixing until a crumbly dough forms.
- Press the dough evenly into the pan. Bake for 18-20 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
- Make the Lemon Filling:
- In a medium bowl, whisk eggs and sugar until smooth.
- Add flour, baking powder, lemon juice, and zest. Whisk until fully combined.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Pour the lemon filling over the warm crust.
- Bake for 22-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and edges are slightly golden.
- Cool and Finish:
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
- Dust generously with powdered sugar, slice into squares, and serve.
Notes
For extra tartness, add an extra tablespoon of lemon juice.
For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend.
To enhance sweetness, substitute granulated sugar with powdered sugar in the crust.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 16 bars
- Calories: 250 kcal
