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Amazing 1st Try Lemon Bars Recipe Secret Revealed

Lemon Bars

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Enjoy Richard’s classic lemon bars, featuring a buttery shortbread crust topped with a bright, tangy-sweet lemon custard filling. These easy bar cookies deliver a refreshing citrus burst, finished with a dusting of powdered sugar. This recipe brings back a cherished memory for us.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for crust)
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar (for filling)
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for filling)
  • 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 3 lemons)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
  2. Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, mix the softened butter and 1/2 cup sugar until creamy.
  3. Stir in the 2 cups of flour and salt until a crumbly dough forms.
  4. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, until lightly golden.
  5. While the crust bakes, prepare the filling. In a separate bowl, whisk together the 4 eggs, 1 1/2 cups sugar, 1/4 cup flour, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
  6. Pour the lemon filling evenly over the hot, pre-baked crust.
  7. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20 to 25 minutes, or until the filling is set and no longer jiggles in the center.
  8. Let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This takes about 2 hours.
  9. Once cool, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Cut into squares.
  10. Dust generously with powdered sugar right before serving. Store leftovers covered at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemon juice for the best, brightest flavor. Bottled juice changes the taste.
  • Do not overbake the filling; it sets as it cools.
  • For easy cutting, chill the bars for an hour after they reach room temperature.

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