Description
Lemon Dream Bars are a delightful American dessert featuring a buttery, tender shortbread crust topped with a tangy, smooth lemon filling. Perfectly balanced with fresh lemon juice and zest, these bars make a refreshing treat for summer or any time you crave a bright citrus dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
For the Lemon Filling
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
For Garnish
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal of bars later.
- Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, mix the softened unsalted butter, 2 cups of all-purpose flour, and 1/2 cup powdered sugar. Stir until a soft dough forms. Press this dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create the crust layer.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the crust for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. This ensures a firm base for the lemon filling.
- Prepare the Lemon Filling: While the crust bakes, whisk together 4 large eggs, 2 cups granulated sugar, 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon lemon zest in a large bowl until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Assemble and Bake: Remove the crust from the oven and immediately pour the lemon filling over the hot crust. This helps the filling start to set as the base is still warm. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25 to 30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the lemon bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, refrigerate them for at least 1 hour to firm up further and enhance the flavors.
- Serve: Dust the top with powdered sugar just before slicing into 16 bars and serving. Enjoy these bright, tangy lemon treats chilled for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest, most vibrant lemon flavor.
- For an extra lemony kick, add up to 2 tablespoons of lemon zest to the filling.
- These bars are best served chilled and can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Line the baking dish with parchment paper for easier removal and cleaner slicing.
