Lemon Bars Recipe

Tip: These Lemon Bars are the ultimate balance of sweet and tart, with a refreshing citrus flavor that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply craving a delicious treat, these bars are sure to be a hit. The smooth and creamy filling paired with a buttery, crisp crust makes for an unforgettable dessert that will leave everyone asking for more. Best served chilled for the ultimate refreshing bite!

Ingredients:

• For the Crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

  • 1/4 tsp salt

• For the Lemon Filling:

  • 4 large eggs

  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

  • 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)

  • 2 tbsp lemon zest

  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

  • 1/4 tsp baking powder

  • Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Prepare the crust:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and mix until the dough forms a crumbly texture. You can use a pastry cutter or food processor for this. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9x9-inch baking pan. Bake the crust for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden. Let it cool slightly while you make the lemon filling.

2. Make the lemon filling:
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar until smooth and fully combined. Add the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.

3. Assemble and bake:
   Once the crust has cooled slightly, pour the lemon filling over the crust. Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are lightly golden. The filling should be firm, but slightly jiggly in the center. Let the bars cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to fully set.

4. Serve:
   Once the bars have chilled, cut them into squares. For an extra touch, dust the tops with powdered sugar or garnish with a thin slice of lemon. Serve chilled for a refreshing dessert that everyone will love.

Calories per Serving:
Each square of these Lemon Bars contains approximately 200-250 calories, depending on the size and the amount of sugar used. This makes them a delightful yet moderate treat to satisfy your sweet and tart cravings.

Energy-efficient tip:
To save energy, use a food processor to quickly combine the crust ingredients, as it’s faster than doing it by hand. When baking the crust and filling, you can use a convection oven, which distributes heat more evenly and reduces cooking time, saving energy.

Who can benefit:
These Lemon Bars are great for anyone who enjoys a sweet and tart treat. The lemon filling is refreshing, providing a good source of vitamin C, while the buttery crust adds a delicious, rich texture. It's a perfect dessert for those looking for a lighter yet indulgent option after a heavy meal.

Who should avoid:
Individuals with citrus allergies should avoid this dessert due to the lemon juice and zest. Also, those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease should substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Those monitoring their sugar intake may want to enjoy these bars in moderation, as they contain a fair amount of sugar.