Description
Lemon Delight Bars are a perfect balance of tangy and sweet, featuring a buttery crust topped with a zesty lemon filling and dusted with powdered sugar. These bars offer a refreshing citrus twist ideal for dessert or a delightful treat any time of day.
Ingredients
Scale
For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
For topping:
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Make crust: In a medium bowl, mix the all-purpose flour with powdered sugar. Stir in the melted unsalted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Bake for 15–18 minutes or until the crust is lightly golden.
- Mix filling: While the crust bakes, whisk together granulated sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt in another bowl. Add the eggs, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest; whisk until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Bake filling: Pour the lemon filling over the hot crust immediately after removing it from the oven. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20–22 minutes, or until the center is set and does not jiggle when nudged.
- Cool and chill: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 1 hour to further set before slicing.
- Serve: Dust the top with powdered sugar before cutting into 16 bars. Use a sharp knife for cleaner cuts, wiping the blade between slices.
Notes
- For an extra tangy flavor, add additional lemon zest or a small splash of lemon extract to the filling mixture.
- Store leftover bars in the refrigerator for up to 4 days for optimal freshness.
- Using a sharp knife and wiping the blade clean between cuts helps achieve neat slices.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
