Zesty Lemon Bars are a classic citrus dessert that brings together a buttery shortbread crust with a bright, tangy lemon filling. Perfectly balanced between sweet and tart, these bars offer a refreshing finish to any meal or a cheerful treat to enjoy with your afternoon tea. Simple, elegant, and bursting with fresh lemon flavor, they are a timeless favorite for all occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These lemon bars are loved for their simplicity and vibrant flavor. The buttery shortbread crust provides a rich and tender base, while the lemon layer is smooth, citrusy, and just sweet enough to balance the tartness. They require minimal ingredients and effort, yet deliver a satisfying dessert that looks and tastes impressive. Whether you’re baking for a potluck, picnic, or just craving something zesty, these bars are always a good choice.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flour
unsalted butter, softened
powdered sugar
granulated sugar
large eggs
fresh lemon juice
lemon zest

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of flour, softened butter, and powdered sugar. Mix until the dough becomes crumbly but holds together when pressed.
Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking dish.
Bake the crust for about 15 minutes, or until it turns lightly golden.
While the crust is baking, whisk together the granulated sugar, eggs, the remaining 2 tablespoons of flour, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a separate bowl until smooth.
Once the crust is ready, pour the lemon mixture over the hot crust.
Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes, or until the filling is set and no longer jiggles in the center.
Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing into squares.

Servings and timing

Servings: 9
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 35–40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes (including cooling and chilling)
Calories: approximately 180 kcal per serving

Variations

Lemon-Lime Bars: Replace half the lemon juice with fresh lime juice and add lime zest for a citrus blend.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend for both the crust and filling.
Coconut Crust: Add ¼ cup shredded coconut to the crust for extra texture and flavor.
Lavender Lemon Bars: Infuse the filling with a pinch of dried culinary lavender for a floral note.
Dust with Powdered Sugar: For a classic finish, dust the chilled bars lightly with powdered sugar before serving.

storage/reheating

Store the lemon bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them in layers separated by parchment paper for up to 2 months. Let frozen bars thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. These bars are best served chilled and do not require reheating.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is strongly recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.

How do I know when the filling is set?

The center should be firm and no longer jiggle when gently shaken. A slight golden top is also a good indicator.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double all ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan. Baking time may need slight adjustment.

Can I make them ahead of time?

Absolutely. Lemon bars can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

How do I get clean slices?

Use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts. Chilling the bars thoroughly helps achieve neat edges.

Why is there a crusty layer on top?

A thin crust can form on top during baking from the eggs and sugar; this is normal and adds texture.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, substitute plant-based butter for the unsalted butter in the crust.

What kind of lemons are best?

Standard yellow lemons like Eureka or Lisbon work well. Meyer lemons can be used for a sweeter, less tart version.

Can I add food coloring for a brighter yellow?

Yes, a drop of yellow food coloring can enhance the appearance but is entirely optional.

Do these bars travel well?

Yes, once chilled and cut, they can be packed in a container with parchment between layers for transport.

Conclusion

Zesty Lemon Bars are a delightful treat that brings sunshine to your plate with their bold citrus flavor and buttery base. Easy to make and loved by many, these bars are perfect for spring picnics, holiday platters, or any time you need a light, refreshing dessert. Enjoy them chilled for the best texture and flavor in every bite.

Zesty Lemon Bars

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Author: Douaa
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
Total Time: 0 hours
Yield: 9 bars
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Print Recipe

Description

These Zesty Lemon Bars are a refreshing blend of buttery shortbread crust and tangy lemon filling. With a sweet citrus zing and a melt-in-your-mouth texture, they’re the perfect treat for summer picnics, afternoon tea, or whenever you need a bright and sunny dessert.

Ingredients

Crust:

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup powdered sugar

Filling:

1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Zest of 1 lemon

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a medium bowl, mix 1 cup flour, softened butter, and powdered sugar until the mixture is crumbly and holds when pressed.
Press mixture evenly into the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking dish.
Bake crust for about 15 minutes or until lightly golden.
While the crust bakes, whisk together granulated sugar, eggs, 2 tablespoons flour, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
Pour lemon filling over the warm crust.
Return to the oven and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes, until the filling is set.
Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour before cutting into squares.

Notes

Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch.
Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.