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4.88 from 8 votes
shortbread crusted lemon bars stacked on white plate
Classic Lemon Bars
Prep Time
20 mins
Cook Time
35 mins
Total Time
55 mins
 

These Classic Lemon Bars have a sweet yet tangy lemon filling, a buttery shortbread crust, and plenty of powdered sugar dusted on top. Homemade lemon bars make an easy dessert recipe for the spring and summer months.

Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Classic Lemon Bars
Servings: 9 Bars
Author: Michelle
Ingredients
Crust
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 2/3 cup all purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 2 tsp lemon zest
Filling
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups sugar
  • 1 Tbsp lemon zest
  • 1/2 cup lemon juice, freshly squeezed
  • 1/2 cup flour
Topping
  • Powdered sugar for dusting, optional
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9x9 baking pan, or line it with parchment paper (or non stick foil).

Shortbread Crust
  1. Mix all purpose flour, powdered sugar, salt, and lemon zest together.

  2. Add in melted butter. Mix until the shortbread dough is well combined.

  3. Using a rubber spatula, press the dough into the baking dish in an even layer.

  4. Bake the crust for 12-15 minutes, or until just barely turning golden brown. (Allow to cool at least 10 minutes before adding the lemon filling.)

Lemon Filling
  1. In a medium bowl, whisk eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest together.

  2. Next, add in granulated sugar and all purpose flour and whisk until smooth and combined.

  3. Pour the filling over the cooled crust and bake for 22-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and no longer jiggles when gently shaken.

  4. Allow to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until ready to eat. (Leftovers should be stored in the fridge too.)

  5. Cut into squares. Dust with powdered sugar, if desired.

  6. Enjoy!