Super Easy Lemon Bars: Sweet & Tangy Bliss in Every Bite

Published:

by Aileen

Leave a Comment

Lemon bars are like a burst of sunshine on a cloudy day. The zesty flavor dances on your palate, with each bite providing a delightful balance of tartness and sweetness that makes your taste buds sing. Picture yourself sinking your teeth into a buttery, crumbly crust topped with that luscious lemony goodness; it’s the kind of experience that makes you feel like you’re lounging on a beach, sipping lemonade.

Jump to:

Let me take you down memory lane. I remember the first time I tasted these delightful treats at my grandma’s kitchen table. The air was filled with the scent of fresh lemons and warmth from her oven. It was an occasion for family gatherings, laughter, and mouth-watering desserts. Now, every time I whip up Super Easy Lemon Bars, it transports me back to those sunny afternoons where we shared stories and created memories over sweet bites of heaven.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • These Super Easy Lemon Bars are incredibly simple to make, ensuring even beginners can impress their friends and family in no time.
  • The bright and zesty flavor profile makes them an irresistible treat for any occasion.
  • Visually stunning with their golden-yellow hue, they are sure to brighten up your dessert table.
  • Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or just a cozy night in, these bars offer versatility that pairs beautifully with tea or coffee.

Ingredients for Super Easy Lemon Bars

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • All-Purpose Flour: This forms the base of our crust, providing a sturdy yet tender texture.

  • Granulated Sugar: Essential for both the crust and filling; it balances the tartness of the lemons perfectly.

  • Unsalted Butter: Use softened butter for the crust to achieve that rich flavor and flaky texture.

  • Fresh Lemons: The star of our show! Freshly squeezed lemon juice gives these bars their signature tartness.

  • Eggs: They help bind everything together while adding richness to the filling.

  • Baking Powder: A little pinch helps give our filling some lift and fluffiness.

  • Agar-Agar or Cornstarch: Use either as a gelling agent to ensure your lemon bars have that perfect set without gelatin.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation

How to Make Super Easy Lemon Bars

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your lemon bars bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine flour and sugar before cutting in softened butter until it resembles coarse crumbs. Press this mixture into a greased baking dish evenly to form your crust.

Step 3: Bake the Crust

Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes or until lightly golden brown. This provides a solid base for our tangy filling.

Step 4: Create the Filling

In another bowl, whisk together sugar, freshly squeezed lemon juice, eggs, baking powder, and your choice of agar-agar or cornstarch until smooth and well combined.

Step 5: Pour Over Crust

Once your crust has cooled slightly after baking, pour the lemon mixture evenly over it. Make sure every corner gets some zesty goodness!

Step 6: Bake Again

Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until set (a toothpick should come out clean).

Once done, let them cool completely before slicing into squares. Serve chilled or at room temperature for an extra refreshing treat! Transfer to plates with a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for the perfect finishing touch – because who doesn’t love a little extra flair? Enjoy your journey into lemony bliss!

You Must Know

  • These Super Easy Lemon Bars are not just a treat; they’re a slice of sunshine!
  • Bright, tangy, and sweet, they come together with minimal fuss.
  • Perfect for potlucks or just because you need a little zest in your life.
  • These bars will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To make these Super Easy Lemon Bars efficiently, start by preheating your oven while you prepare the crust. Mix up the filling while the crust bakes, creating perfect layers for optimal flavor and texture.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize these bars! Add some zest from other citrus fruits like lime or orange for an exciting twist. You could even sprinkle some coconut flakes on top before baking for added flavor and texture.

Storing & Reheating

Store your Super Easy Lemon Bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them warm, just pop them in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Use fresh lemon juice for that vibrant flavor boost; bottled juice just doesn’t cut it!
  • Make sure to let the bars cool completely before cutting; this ensures cleaner slices.
  • Always check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer; it can be off by quite a bit.

Making these lemon bars reminds me of sunny afternoons at my grandma’s house, where she would always have a batch ready. Her love and those tangy treats still bring smiles to my family today!

FAQs:

What are Super Easy Lemon Bars?

Super Easy Lemon Bars are a delightful dessert featuring a buttery shortbread crust topped with a tangy lemon filling. They are simple to prepare, making them perfect for anyone looking to whip up a quick treat. These bars are made without any pork products or alcohol, ensuring they can be enjoyed by a wide range of people. The use of fresh lemon juice enhances their flavor, while plant-based gelling agents ensure the filling sets perfectly.

How do I store Super Easy Lemon Bars?

To keep your Super Easy Lemon Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to a week when properly stored. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They will maintain their delicious taste for about three months in the freezer.

Can I modify the recipe for Super Easy Lemon Bars?

Absolutely! You can customize your Super Easy Lemon Bars by adding different flavors or ingredients. For instance, try incorporating zest from other citrus fruits like limes or oranges for added depth. Additionally, you can substitute the sugar with natural sweeteners like agave syrup or coconut sugar, keeping in mind that this may alter the texture slightly.

Are Super Easy Lemon Bars vegan-friendly?

Yes, Super Easy Lemon Bars can be made vegan-friendly by replacing traditional butter with plant-based alternatives such as coconut oil or vegan margarine. Ensure that all other ingredients used, including the gelling agent and sweeteners, are also plant-based. This way, you can enjoy these delicious bars without compromising on dietary choices.

Conclusion for Super Easy Lemon Bars:

In summary, Super Easy Lemon Bars offer a simple yet delicious dessert option that everyone can enjoy. With a buttery crust and tangy lemon filling, they’re perfect for any occasion. Storing them correctly ensures they remain fresh and tasty for days. Feel free to modify the recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Enjoying these delightful treats is easy and satisfying!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Super Easy Lemon Bars


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Aileen
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

Description

Lemon bars are a delightful treat that combines a buttery shortbread crust with a tangy lemon filling, creating a refreshing dessert perfect for any occasion. With their vibrant golden-yellow color and zesty flavor, these Super Easy Lemon Bars are not only visually appealing but also incredibly simple to make. Ideal for potlucks or cozy nights in, they bring sunshine to your dessert table and are sure to impress family and friends.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (divided)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 large fresh lemons (juiced)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix the flour and 1/4 cup sugar. Cut in the softened butter until it resembles coarse crumbs. Press into a greased baking dish.
  3. Bake the crust for about 15 minutes until lightly golden.
  4. In another bowl, whisk together the remaining sugar, lemon juice, eggs, baking powder, and cornstarch until smooth.
  5. Pour the lemon mixture over the baked crust and return to the oven for an additional 20-25 minutes or until set.
  6. Allow to cool completely before slicing into squares. Optionally sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 square (50g)
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 14g
  • Sodium: 75mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 26g
  • Fiber: <1g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg

Next Recipe

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star