Description
Lemon Dream Bars are a delightful citrus dessert featuring a buttery, crumbly crust topped with a tangy, lemony filling. With a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors, these bars are finished with a dusting of powdered sugar, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
Lemon Filling
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 2/3 cup fresh lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
- Zest of 2 lemons
For Serving
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use a mixer to beat the softened butter and 1/2 cup granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Mix Crust Ingredients: Add 2 cups all-purpose flour and 1/4 teaspoon salt to the butter mixture, mixing just until a crumbly dough forms.
- Bake the Crust: Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden.
- Prepare Lemon Filling: In a medium bowl, whisk together the 4 eggs and 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar until smooth and well combined.
- Add Remaining Filling Ingredients: Stir in 1/4 cup flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest, whisking until fully incorporated.
- Assemble Bars: Pour the lemon filling over the warm crust evenly.
- Bake Again: Return to the oven and bake for an additional 22-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are slightly golden.
- Cool Completely: Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan to set properly.
- Finish and Serve: Dust the top generously with powdered sugar, slice into squares, and serve.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing to ensure clean cuts.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- You can substitute part of the all-purpose flour in the crust with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version, but texture may vary.
- For extra zest, sprinkle some lemon zest on top along with the powdered sugar before serving.
