Classic Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust are a delightful dessert that perfectly balances sweetness and tartness. With a buttery, crumbly shortbread base and a zesty lemon filling, these bars are an irresistible treat for any occasion. Easy to make and wonderfully refreshing, they’re perfect for summer gatherings or whenever you need a little sunshine in your life.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 9
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 180
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fat: 9g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 70mg

Why Make This Classic Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust

Classic Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust are not just a dessert; they’re a way to brighten your day! The combination of a rich, buttery crust and a tangy lemon filling creates a deliciously satisfying contrast of flavors and textures. They’re light, refreshing, and have just the right amount of sweetness to counterbalance the tartness of the lemons. Whether you want to impress guests at a dinner party or enjoy a simple treat at home, these bars are sure to hit the spot.

How to Make Classic Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust

Making Classic Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust is a straightforward process that yields impressive results. Follow these simple steps to bring this delightful treat to life!

Ingredients:

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Powdered sugar for dusting

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mixing the Crust

In a bowl, mix together the flour, powdered sugar, cornstarch, and softened butter until crumbly. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a solid base.
Step 3: Cooking the Crust

Bake the crust for 15-20 minutes, or until it turns lightly golden. Keep an eye on it to achieve that perfect golden color!
Step 4: Preparing the Filling

In another bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, eggs, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and baking powder until smooth. Ensure no lumps remain!
Step 5: Combining

Pour the lemon mixture evenly over the baked crust, making sure it covers the entire surface.
Step 6: Baking the Filling

Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until the filling is set and slightly firm to the touch. Your kitchen will smell heavenly at this point!
Step 7: Finishing Touch

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar and cut into squares or bars.

How to Serve Classic Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust

Serve your Classic Lemon Bars chilled or at room temperature. They are perfect plain, but you can also top them with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for added flair. These bars are great for picnics, birthday parties, or casual gatherings!

How to Store Classic Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust

Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to prep them ahead of time, you can freeze the lemon bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the fridge before serving.

Expert Tips for Perfect Classic Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust

Use fresh lemons for the best flavor; bottled lemon juice just doesn’t compare.
For an extra zing, add a bit of lemon extract to the filling.
Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature to mix easily with dry ingredients.
Don’t skip the cooling step; it helps the bars set properly, making them easier to cut.
If you want a thicker crust, increase the crust ingredients proportionately or use a smaller baking dish.

Delicious Variations

Coconut Lemon Bars: Add shredded coconut to the crust for a tropical twist.
Blueberry Lemon Bars: Swirl in some fresh or frozen blueberries into the filling before baking.
Ginger Lemon Bars: Incorporate some ground ginger into the crust for a spice kick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of citrus? Absolutely! Try using lime or orange juice for a different flavor profile.
Can I make gluten-free lemon bars? Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
What if I don’t have cornstarch? You can substitute cornstarch with arrowroot powder or simply use additional flour, although the texture may differ slightly.
How do I know when my bars are done baking? They should be set in the middle and may have a slight jiggle. They will firm up more as they cool.
Can I double the recipe? Yes! You can double the ingredients and bake in a larger dish but adjust the baking time accordingly.

Conclusion

Classic Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust are a delightful addition to any dessert table. Enjoy the bright and refreshing taste while savoring the buttery crust that holds it all together. This recipe is not just simple to follow but guarantees a delicious outcome that will have everyone asking for seconds. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and create a batch of these delicious bars that are sure to brighten your day!