Description
These Lemon Chess Bars feature a buttery, crumbly crust topped with a rich, tangy lemon filling. Perfect for citrus lovers, these bars offer a delicious balance of sweet and tart flavors, making them an ideal treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, chilled and cut into chunks
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Lemon Filling:
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
- In a food processor, combine the chilled butter, flour, sugar, and salt. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a crust.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.
- Prepare the Lemon Filling:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, and flour until smooth and well combined.
- Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract, followed by the melted butter. Mix until smooth.
- Pour the lemon filling over the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Serve:
- Once cooled, cut into squares and dust with powdered sugar if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
For a different citrus flavor, you can substitute lemon with lime or orange.
Ensure the bars are completely cooled before cutting for clean slices.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 16 bars
- Calories: 280 kcal per serving