If you’re craving a fresh, zesty treat that perfectly balances tangy and sweet, this Lemon Bars with Powdered Sugar Recipe is exactly what you need in your baking repertoire. These bars boast a buttery, tender crust paired with a bright and luscious lemon filling, crowned with a delicate dusting of powdered sugar that adds just the right touch of sweetness. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, these lemon bars deliver a burst of sunshine in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is half the secret to perfect lemon bars. Each one plays an essential role: from the rich, softened butter that creates a crisp crust, to the fresh lemon juice and zest that bring that invigorating citrus punch, every element works together to create a harmonious and vibrant dessert.
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened): This gives your crust a rich, tender texture and buttery flavor.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the crust without overpowering the lemon.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the crust providing just the right amount of structure.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar (for filling): Sweetens the lemon layer, balancing its tartness beautifully.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for filling): Helps thicken the luscious lemon filling to a perfect consistency.
- 4 large eggs: Adds richness and helps the filling set firmly.
- 2/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 3–4 lemons): The star ingredient bringing a bright, refreshing zing.
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest: Infuses extra lemon flavor and a lovely aroma.
- Powdered sugar for dusting: A light, sweet finish that makes these bars look irresistible.
How to Make Lemon Bars with Powdered Sugar Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and 1/2 cup granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. Then, mix in 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/4 teaspoon salt until the dough turns crumbly but holds together when pressed. Press this mixture evenly into your prepared pan to form the base layer. Bake it for 18 to 20 minutes until it’s lightly golden and smells heavenly—this sets the stage for a perfect lemon bar.
Step 2: Mix the Lemon Filling
While the crust is baking, whisk together 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar and 1/4 cup all-purpose flour in a separate bowl. Then, add 4 large eggs, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and lemon zest. Whisk everything together until smooth and well combined. This filling is vibrant and tangy, promising to brighten every bite.
Step 3: Bake the Filled Bars
As soon as the crust comes out of the oven, pour the prepared lemon filling over the warm crust. Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the center is set and the edges start to firm up. Patience here is key—it ensures your bars hold their shape perfectly while remaining tender and luscious.
Step 4: Cool and Dust with Powdered Sugar
Once baked, let the lemon bars cool completely in the pan to allow the filling to set thoroughly. Then, pop them into the refrigerator for at least one hour, which will make slicing easier and enhance the overall texture. Just before serving, generously dust the top with powdered sugar for that classic, irresistible finish.
How to Serve Lemon Bars with Powdered Sugar Recipe
Garnishes
While the powdered sugar dusting is a tried-and-true classic, you can also elevate presentation by adding lemon slices or a sprinkle of extra lemon zest on top. Fresh mint leaves offer a lovely pop of green and a subtle refreshing note that complements the lemon beautifully. These small touches make serving your lemon bars feel extra special.
Side Dishes
Lemon bars are a star on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with light accompaniments. Consider a dollop of whipped cream or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream to add creamy richness alongside the tartness. A cup of hot tea or freshly brewed coffee is the perfect beverage to enjoy the bright citrus notes of the bars.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress guests? Try cutting the bars into different shapes like diamonds or mini squares for bite-sized treats. You can arrange them on a pretty platter with edible flowers or citrus slices for a stunning dessert centerpiece. Wrapping individual bars in parchment and tying with a ribbon makes a charming gift or party favor as well.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These lemon bars stay fresh for up to four days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keeping them chilled helps maintain the filling’s perfect texture and keeps the crust crisp. Bringing them to room temperature for a few minutes before serving enhances the flavor and softness.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this Lemon Bars with Powdered Sugar Recipe later, they freeze beautifully. Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating
To enjoy your lemon bars with that freshly baked feel, warm them briefly in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes after thawing, but don’t overdo it or the filling might become too soft. A quick reheat helps bring out the aroma and melds the flavors perfectly, making each bite taste like the first time you made them.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Freshly squeezed lemon juice is always best to achieve the brightest, most vibrant flavor in this Lemon Bars with Powdered Sugar Recipe. Bottled juice tends to be less fresh and can add unwanted bitterness, but in a pinch, it will still work.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking. Just keep in mind that texture may vary slightly, but the tart lemon flavor will still shine wonderfully.
Why is the filling not setting properly?
If your filling is too runny, it often means it hasn’t baked long enough or the eggs weren’t beaten thoroughly. Make sure to bake the bars until the center is firm to the touch, and allow proper cooling and refrigeration time to set completely.
How do I get clean slices without crumbling?
Chilling the bars for at least an hour before cutting prevents crumbling and helps achieve neat slices. Using a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts also ensures perfect presentation every time.
Can I add extra lemon zest for more flavor?
Yes! Adding an extra tablespoon of lemon zest intensifies the citrus punch without overpowering the balance of sweetness and tartness. It’s a great way to customize this Lemon Bars with Powdered Sugar Recipe to your taste.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to brighten up your dessert table or just indulge in a timeless favorite, this Lemon Bars with Powdered Sugar Recipe is a game changer. It’s simple, crowd-pleasing, and delivers that perfect harmony of buttery crust and tangy lemon filling that everyone adores. Don’t hesitate to dive in—baking these bars will fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your heart with joy. Give it a try and watch them disappear fast!
Print
Lemon Bars with Powdered Sugar Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 16 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These classic Lemon Bars with Powdered Sugar feature a buttery, crumbly crust topped with a tangy and sweet lemon filling. Perfectly baked to set the filling while keeping a bright lemon flavor, these bars make a delightful dessert or snack, ideal for spring baking and lemon lovers.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Filling
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
- 2/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 3–4 lemons)
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
Topping
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it to ensure easy removal of the bars later.
- Make the crust: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy. Stir in 2 cups of flour and 1/4 teaspoon salt until the dough becomes crumbly.
- Form and bake crust: Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create an even crust layer. Bake for 18–20 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Prepare lemon filling: While the crust is baking, combine 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar and 1/4 cup flour in a separate bowl. Whisk in the eggs, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and lemon zest until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Add filling and bake: Once the crust comes out of the oven, immediately pour the lemon filling over the warm crust. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes, or until the center is set and no longer jiggly.
- Cool and chill: Allow the lemon bars to cool completely in the pan at room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 1 hour to fully set the filling.
- Serve: Dust the chilled lemon bars generously with powdered sugar before slicing them into 16 squares and serving.
Notes
- For extra tartness, add an additional tablespoon of lemon zest to the filling mixture.
- Store leftover bars in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.
