Description
Lemon Delight Bars are a zesty, sweet, and tangy dessert featuring a buttery shortbread crust topped with a luscious lemon custard filling. Perfectly balanced with a bright citrus flavor, these bars are ideal for spring and summer gatherings or any time you crave a refreshing treat.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Filling
- 3 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best)
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for extra citrus flavor)
Toppings
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Mix well. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking pan to form the crust.
- Bake the crust: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake the crust for about 15 minutes or until it is lightly golden. Remove from oven and let it cool slightly.
- Make the filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 large eggs, 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar, 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 teaspoon baking powder, lemon juice, and lemon zest (if using) until well combined and smooth.
- Pour filling over crust: Carefully pour the lemon filling mixture over the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake the bars: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the lemon filling is set and no longer jiggles when gently shaken.
- Cool and dust: Remove from oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar if desired.
- Serve: Cut into 12 squares and serve. Store leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Notes
- For best results, use freshly squeezed lemon juice and lemon zest to enhance the lemon flavor.
- The powdered sugar topping is optional but adds a nice touch of sweetness and presentation.
- You can line the baking pan with parchment paper for easier removal of the bars.
- These bars can be stored in the refrigerator and enjoyed chilled.