If you’re on the hunt for a bright, tangy dessert that perfectly balances sweet and tart, you absolutely have to try this Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust Recipe. With a buttery, crumbly shortbread base and a luscious lemon filling that bursts with fresh citrus flavor, these bars are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Whether for a casual afternoon treat or a fancy party dessert, this recipe combines simplicity and elegance in every bite, making it a gem to add to your baking repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role—from creating the buttery crust that holds everything together, to the zesty lemon filling that gives it that irresistible tang and brightness. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for a tender, crumbly shortbread crust that’s delightfully buttery.
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and moisture to the crust for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- ½ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the crust delicately while also aiding in a smooth texture.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest: Packs a fragrant punch and brightens the filling with fresh citrus oils.
- 2/3 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4-5 lemons): The star of the show, offering that tangy zip that makes these bars unforgettable.
- 4 large eggs: Helps set the lemon filling firmly while keeping it creamy and luscious.
- 2 cups sugar: Sweetens the filling to balance the tartness of the lemons flawlessly.
How to Make Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s nice and ready for baking the crust perfectly. Meanwhile, grease a 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent any sticking, making sure your bars come out flawlessly every time.
Step 2: Make the Shortbread Crust
In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, powdered sugar, and salt until the mixture is creamy and smooth. Then, gradually mix in the all-purpose flour until it forms a soft dough. Press this evenly into the prepared pan to create a firm base. Bake it in the oven for 15 minutes or until the edges turn a lovely light golden color. This shortbread crust will be buttery, crisp, and the perfect contrast to the lemon filling.
Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Filling
Whisk the eggs, sugar, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest together until the mixture is silky smooth and evenly blended. This mixture offers a balance of sweet and tangy flavors that are essential to the charm of the Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust Recipe.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
Once the crust is baked, carefully pour the lemon filling evenly over it. Return the pan to the oven and bake it for another 25-30 minutes. The filling should set nicely but still jingle slightly when you gently shake the pan. This texture signals that your lemon bars will be creamy yet firm enough to hold their shape.
Step 5: Cool and Finish
Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Once chilled, dust generously with powdered sugar for that classic finish and cut into approximately 16 squares. Each bite offers a wonderful combination of buttery crust and zesty lemon filling.
How to Serve Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your lemon bars even more, consider a light dusting of powdered sugar or a few thin strips of lemon zest on top for a pop of color and flavor. Fresh mint leaves also make a lovely, fragrant garnish that pairs beautifully with the citrus notes.
Side Dishes
Lemon bars are fantastic on their own, but if you want to create a standout dessert platter, pair them with fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy coolness contrasts with the tart lemon perfectly, creating a festive and well-rounded experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these bars in mini parchment-lined individual squares for a party, or layer them with whipped cream in clear glasses for an elegant lemon bar parfait. You can also drizzle them with a raspberry coulis or a white chocolate glaze to make the presentation extra special and Instagram-worthy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover lemon bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep their freshness and texture for up to 5 days, making them a perfect make-ahead dessert for busy weekdays or surprise guests.
Freezing
You can freeze lemon bars by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing in a freezer-safe container. They freeze wonderfully for up to 2 months. Just thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving, so they maintain their creamy texture and fresh lemon flavor.
Reheating
Lemon bars are typically enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary. However, if you prefer them slightly warm, allow them to come to room temperature and then gently heat a square in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will soften the flavor but avoid overheating to keep that perfect texture.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
While bottled lemon juice will work in a pinch, fresh lemon juice provides a brighter, more vibrant flavor that really makes these bars shine. If you use bottled, aim for a high-quality, 100% lemon juice for the best taste.
What can I substitute for unsalted butter?
You can use salted butter but reduce or omit the additional salt in the crust recipe to avoid it becoming too salty. For a dairy-free option, try a vegan butter substitute, keeping in mind it may slightly change the texture.
How do I know when the lemon bars are fully baked?
The filling is done when it is mostly set but still slightly jiggles in the center when you gently shake the pan. It will firm up more as it cools, so avoid overbaking to keep the perfect creamy consistency.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend that works for baking. The crust might be a bit more delicate, so handle with care, but the flavor will still be fantastic.
Why do the lemon bars need to cool completely before cutting?
Allowing them to cool completely ensures the filling sets properly and doesn’t squish out when cutting. This results in clean, neat squares that hold together beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust Recipe is pure sunshine on a plate. Every bite delivers a perfect harmony of buttery crunch and refreshing lemon zest, making it a must-bake for anyone who loves simple yet stunning desserts. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this delightful treat as much as I do — it’s sure to become one of your favorites!
Print
Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious homemade lemon bars featuring a buttery shortbread crust topped with a tangy, smooth lemon filling. Perfectly balanced between sweet and tart, these bars are a refreshing dessert or snack for any occasion.
Ingredients
Shortbread Crust
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
Lemon Filling
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2/3 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4–5 lemons)
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups sugar
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the crust.
- Prepare Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter, powdered sugar, and salt until creamy and well blended. Gradually add 2 cups of all-purpose flour, mixing until the dough forms a crumbly but pressable mixture. Press this evenly into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Bake the crust for 15 minutes or until it turns lightly golden.
- Make Filling: While the crust bakes, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest in a separate bowl until smooth and fully combined.
- Pour Filling Over Crust: Remove the crust from the oven and immediately pour the lemon filling evenly over the hot crust to allow it to begin setting.
- Bake Lemon Bars: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes. The filling should be set with a slight jiggle in the center, indicating it is perfectly cooked without overbaking.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the lemon bars to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar. Cut into approximately 16 squares and serve for a delightful treat.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor and brightness.
- Ensure the butter is softened, not melted, for the crust to have the perfect texture.
- Let bars cool completely before cutting to avoid cracking or breaking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.
