Easy Lemon Bars: A Zesty and Simple Delight ππ°β¨
1. Introduction
If youβre searching for a dessert that’s both tangy and sweet, look no further than this easy lemon bar recipe. These delightful treats are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer picnic, a holiday gathering, or just a simple afternoon snack. This recipe will guide you through making the most delicious, simple lemon bars right in your own kitchen. Perhaps you’re also looking for something for breakfast? Then, check out our breakfast recipes!

What makes this easy lemon bar recipe stand out is its simplicity and the vibrant flavor of fresh lemons. Forget about complicated baking processes; this homemade lemon bars recipe is straightforward and yields perfect results every time. This is also a great option if you’re looking for desserts. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice, you’ll find this quick lemon dessert easy to follow and incredibly rewarding. If you are thinking of other easy desserts, have you considered trying our creamy mango pudding? It’s another great no-fuss dessert recipe for everyone!
2. Why This Easy Lemon Bar Recipe Works
This recipe works because it balances the tartness of lemons with just the right amount of sweetness. The crust is buttery and sturdy, providing the perfect base for the tangy lemon filling. The key to perfect homemade lemon bars lies in using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Freshly squeezed lemon juice, real butter, and a touch of powdered sugar create a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. If you enjoy baking, you might also like our baking category on our site!
3. Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather these essential ingredients for your easy lemon bar recipe. Getting everything ready beforehand makes the whole process smoother and more enjoyable:
- For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- For the Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (from about 3-4 lemons)
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Using these ingredients will ensure your simple lemon bars turn out perfectly every time. Remember, the quality of your ingredients directly impacts the flavor, so choose wisely!
4. Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create the best easy lemon bars youβve ever tasted. Each step is detailed to ensure even beginner bakers can achieve perfect results:
1. Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, cold cubed butter, powdered sugar, and salt. Use a pastry blender or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The key here is to keep the butter cold; this helps create a flaky crust. Similar to crust, take a look at these cream cheese sugar cookies, for another great option.
2. Press the Crust

Press the mixture into the bottom of an ungreased 9×13 inch baking pan. Ensure it’s evenly distributed for uniform baking. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden. While the crust is baking, prepare the filling. This pre-baking step ensures your crust is sturdy enough to hold the lemon filling without becoming soggy. Perhaps our Easy Lemon Poppy Seed recipe, would go well with that filling.
3. Make the Filling

In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix until well combined. Make sure there are no lumps for a smooth and silky filling. Have you tried our Carrot Cake With A Twist, for another great way to enjoy cake filling.
4. Bake the Bars

Pour the lemon filling over the baked crust. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired. These quick lemon dessert bars are best served chilled. For similar options, have you tried our Carrot Cake For Easter Dinner?
5. Tips for Perfect Lemon Bars
Here are some extra tips to ensure your lemon bars are a hit every time:
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. Bottled juice can sometimes have a bitter aftertaste.
- Don’t overbake the filling. It should be set but still slightly soft.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to prevent them from crumbling.
- For a cleaner cut, use a plastic knife or run your knife under hot water between slices.
Looking for more tips and tricks? Check out this article for additional insights!
6. Variations and Add-ins
Want to personalize your easy lemon bar recipe? Here are a few ideas to get creative in the kitchen:
- Add a layer of raspberry jam between the crust and the filling for a fruity twist.
- Mix poppy seeds into the crust for added texture and flavor.
- Top the bars with a meringue layer for an elegant presentation.
For an easter option, have you tried our Easter Dirt Cake Casserole?
7. Serving Suggestions
These simple lemon bars are perfect on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of accompaniments. Serve them with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a fresh berry compote. They also make a delightful addition to a dessert platter or tea party spread. Want to know more about us?
8. Storing Your Lemon Bars
To keep your homemade lemon bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
9. Conclusion
With this easy lemon bar recipe, you can create a zesty and delicious treat that will impress everyone. The combination of a buttery crust and tangy lemon filling makes these bars irresistible. So, gather your ingredients and get baking! Enjoy the delightful taste of these quick lemon dessert bars, perfect for any occasion. We hope you enjoy this recipe, don’t forget to check out our other recipes!
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Easy Lemon Bars
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 16–24 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This easy lemon bar recipe delivers a zesty and delightful treat with a buttery crust and tangy lemon filling. Perfect for any occasion, these homemade lemon bars are simple to make and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
- For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- For the Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (from about 3–4 lemons)
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cold cubed butter, powdered sugar, and salt. Use a pastry blender or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of an ungreased 9×13 inch baking pan. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden. While the crust is baking, prepare the filling.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix until well combined.
- Pour the lemon filling over the baked crust. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired. These quick lemon dessert bars are best served chilled.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. Bottled juice can sometimes have a bitter aftertaste.
- Don’t overbake the filling. It should be set but still slightly soft.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to prevent them from crumbling.
- For a cleaner cut, use a plastic knife or run your knife under hot water between slices.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 220 Kcal
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: lemon bars, easy lemon bars, homemade lemon bars, lemon dessert, quick dessert, baking recipe, lemon recipe, citrus dessert