Lemon Bars (Lemon Squares) Recipe

If you’ve ever craved a dessert that perfectly balances tangy brightness with buttery sweetness, you’re in for a treat with this Lemon Bars (Lemon Squares) Recipe. These delightful bars bring together a crisp, tender shortbread crust and a luscious, zesty lemon filling that wakes up your taste buds with every bite. They’re refreshingly addictive and surprisingly simple to make, which makes them a favorite to whip up for any gathering or whenever you need a sunny pick-me-up. Whether it’s a picnic, a casual get-together, or just a cozy afternoon snack, this Lemon Bars (Lemon Squares) Recipe is sure to become a cherished staple in your recipe box.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Lemon Bars (Lemon Squares) Recipe lies in the simplicity and quality of its ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role: the butter creates a rich, flaky crust; the sugars add sweetness and a hint of texture; the lemons bring fresh acidity and vibrant color; and just the right touch of vanilla and salt enhance the overall flavor profile. Having these straightforward components means you can trust the result to always be delicious.

• ½ cup salted butter softened: Provides a rich base for the crust with a touch of saltiness for balance.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: The foundation of your crust and filling, offering structure and tenderness.
• ¼ cup powdered sugar: Adds delicate sweetness and a smooth texture to the crust.
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Subtle warmth and depth that enhances the buttery crust.
• ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt: Elevates all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• 2 eggs beaten: Bind the filling ingredients together and give it a luscious texture.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the lemon filling while creating a slight shimmer on top.
• 2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour: Stabilizes the filling to help it set perfectly.
• ¼ cup lemon juice (about 2 medium lemons, squeezed): The star of the show, providing the signature tart punch.
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional): Adds an extra burst of citrus aroma and flavor.
• ¼ cup powdered sugar: For dusting the finished bars with a pretty, sweet finish.

How to Make Lemon Bars (Lemon Squares) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F and lining an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, making sure to lightly grease it for easy removal later. Using a mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or a hand mixer), beat the softened butter and vanilla until creamy and smooth. Then, add in the flour, powdered sugar, and salt, mixing until you achieve coarse, large crumbs. This crumbly texture is key to developing a shortbread crust that’s buttery and flaky. Press this dough evenly into the bottom of your baking dish using lightly floured hands. A neat tip here is to poke shallow holes in the crust with a fork—this prevents bubbling and helps the crust bake evenly. Bake in the oven for about 15 minutes until it looks just set but not browned.

Step 2: Whip Up the Lemon Filling

While the crust is baking, it’s time to brighten things up with the lemon filling. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth, then whisk in the granulated sugar vigorously to dissolve it well. Next, add the freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest if you’re using it, and continue whisking until the mixture is completely combined. Finally, sprinkle in the flour and whisk briefly just to incorporate. This combination will produce a tangy, smooth filling with a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness. The flour helps the filling set just right when baked.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

When your crust is ready, remove it from the oven and pour the luscious lemon filling evenly over the top. Pop the dish back into the oven and bake for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until the surface of the filling is just set and still has a slight jiggle in the center – this ensures a delightfully silky texture once cooled.

Step 4: Cool and Finish

This part requires a bit of patience but trust me, it’s worth it. Transfer the baking dish to the refrigerator and chill the lemon bars for a minimum of three hours. Chilling helps the filling firm up fully so you can cut clean, beautiful squares. Once chilled, sprinkle generously with the remaining powdered sugar for that classic delicate look. Slice into squares and you’re ready to enjoy this sunshine dessert!

How to Serve Lemon Bars (Lemon Squares) Recipe

Garnishes

While the powdered sugar dusting is traditional and elegant, don’t hesitate to get creative with garnishes. A few fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries add pops of color and fruity contrast. A sprig of fresh mint or a thin slice of lemon placed artfully on top can also make the presentation feel extra special. These simple touches highlight the bars’ freshness and invite everyone to dig in.

Side Dishes

Lemon Bars are delightfully versatile and pair beautifully with several accompaniments. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream turns these bars into a real indulgence. For a refreshing contrast, serve alongside a simple green salad with a mild vinaigrette or even a few crisp cookies. If you’re serving at brunch, fresh fruit and a cup of Earl Grey tea complement the citrusy tang perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd-pleasing display, arrange your lemon bars on a pretty platter lined with parchment or doilies. Try stacking a few squares with decorative toothpicks for easy grab-and-go bites at parties. Alternatively, place them in colorful cupcake liners for individual portions that look cute and keep fingers clean. If you’re gifting them, wrap the squares in parchment and tie with a ribbon—nothing says homemade love like fresh lemon squares shared with friends!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

The best part about lemon bars is how well they keep their flavor and texture. Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 4 days, making them a wonderful treat that can stretch across the week. Just make sure to bring them back to room temperature or enjoy cold for a refreshing bite.

Freezing

If you want to extend the life of your Lemon Bars (Lemon Squares) Recipe, freezing is a great option. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They freeze wonderfully for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight to maintain that perfect texture and tangy flavor.

Reheating

While lemon bars are often enjoyed chilled, if you prefer them warm, reheat gently in a microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or in a low-temperature oven until just warmed through. Avoid overheating, as this can affect the delicate filling texture. A slight warm glow enhances the citrus aroma beautifully without compromising the freshness.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Fresh lemon juice is definitely best because of its bright, natural flavor and aroma, but in a pinch, bottled lemon juice will work. Just be aware it might have a slightly different acidity level and might lack some brightness, so you could adjust the amount slightly to taste.

How do I know when the lemon bars are done baking?

You want the top of the filling to be set but still have a slight jiggle in the center when you gently shake the pan. This ensures the filling is cooked through but still silky and not overbaked to dryness.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that’s suitable for baking. Keep an eye on the texture of the crust dough—it might need a little adjustment with butter or a binder, but overall the recipe adapts well.

Why is my crust not crisp?

Make sure your butter is fully softened and that you press the crust dough evenly and firmly into the pan. Also, parbaking the crust properly is key—if you skip or shorten this step, the crust might end up soft rather than crisp.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! You can double all ingredients and bake the lemon bars in a larger pan, like a 9×13 inch dish. Keep an eye on baking times as they may vary slightly. This is perfect for bigger gatherings or if you want plenty of leftovers.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Bars (Lemon Squares) Recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser that combines simplicity with irresistible flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, there’s something magically satisfying about biting into a slice of this tangy, buttery treat. I encourage you to give it a try, share with loved ones, and savor the sunny flavors that this classic dessert offers. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug on a plate!

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