Introduction

Lemon Bars with Powdered Sugar Topping are a bright, tangy, and sweet dessert that perfectly balances citrusy freshness with buttery richness. These bars feature a tender, buttery shortbread crust topped with a zesty, smooth lemon filling and a dusting of powdered sugar for a classic finish. Each bite offers a perfect combination of tart and sweet flavors, making them irresistible for any occasion.

The buttery crust provides a satisfying texture, while the lemon filling is smooth, tangy, and just sweet enough to delight your taste buds without being overpowering. The powdered sugar topping adds a subtle sweetness and makes the bars look as appealing as they taste.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it balances tartness and sweetness beautifully. The lemon filling is silky and tangy, perfectly complemented by the crisp, buttery shortbread crust. The powdered sugar adds just the right touch of sweetness and elegance, making these bars both delicious and visually appealing.

Another reason I adore this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dessert that tastes like it came from a bakery. These bars are also easy to make ahead of time, portable, and perfect for gifting or sharing. They’re refreshing, light, and satisfying all at once, making them a go-to dessert for any season.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This dessert is a must-try because it combines classic flavors and textures in a single, satisfying bite. The buttery crust provides a firm base, while the lemon filling adds a tangy, smooth contrast. The powdered sugar topping gives a finishing touch that is both sweet and aesthetically pleasing.

These bars are perfect for celebrations, brunches, potlucks, or a simple sweet treat at home. Their combination of vibrant flavor, buttery texture, and visual appeal makes them unforgettable. The ease of preparation also makes them accessible for bakers of all skill levels.

Recipe Overview

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35–40 minutes
• Total Time: 50–55 minutes
• Servings: 16 squares
• Calories (per serving): ~210 kcal
• Course: Dessert
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

For the Shortbread Crust:

• 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
• ¼ tsp salt

For the Lemon Filling:

• 4 large eggs
• 1 ½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar
• ¼ cup (30 g) all-purpose flour
• 2/3 cup (160 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 3–4 lemons)
• 1 tsp lemon zest (optional for extra brightness)

For the Topping:

• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Cooking Directions

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Preheat the Oven
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease.
2. Prepare the Shortbread Crust
   • In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
   • Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until combined and crumbly.
   • Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan to form the crust.
   • Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven but leave the oven on.
3. Prepare the Lemon Filling
   • In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, and flour until smooth.
   • Add lemon juice and zest, whisking until fully incorporated.
4. Assemble and Bake
   • Pour the lemon filling over the warm baked crust.
   • Return to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the filling is set but slightly jiggly in the center.
5. Cool
   • Allow the lemon bars to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours to fully set.
6. Add Topping and Slice
   • Dust the cooled lemon bars generously with powdered sugar.
   • Cut into 16 squares using a sharp knife.

How to Serve

• Serve chilled or at room temperature.
• Optionally garnish with fresh lemon slices, zest, or a dollop of whipped cream.
• Perfect with tea, coffee, or as a refreshing dessert after meals.

Recipe Tips

• Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor; bottled juice may be less vibrant.
• Press the crust firmly to ensure it holds together when slicing.
• Chill before slicing for clean edges.
• For extra lemony flavor, add 1 tsp lemon zest to the crust or filling.

Variations

1. Raspberry Lemon Bars: Add a layer of raspberry puree between crust and filling for a fruity twist.
2. Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
3. Lemon Almond Bars: Add ½ tsp almond extract to the filling for a nutty flavor.
4. Mini Lemon Bars: Bake in a mini muffin tin for individual servings.
5. Lemon Glaze: Drizzle a thin lemon glaze over the top in addition to powdered sugar.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigeration: Store lemon bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil; freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Special Equipment Needed

• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk and spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife for cutting

FAQ

Q1: Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Yes, but fresh lemon juice provides brighter, more vibrant flavor.

Q2: How do I prevent cracks in the filling?
Avoid overbaking and let the bars cool gradually. Chilling before cutting also helps.

Q3: Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, they can be prepared a day in advance and chilled in the refrigerator.

Q4: Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the flour in the crust and filling with a gluten-free blend.

Q5: How do I cut clean squares?
Use a sharp knife, and wipe it clean between cuts for neat edges.

Conclusion

Lemon Bars with Powdered Sugar Topping are a refreshing, tangy, and sweet dessert that perfectly balances flavors and textures. The buttery shortbread crust provides a firm base for the smooth, zesty lemon filling, while the powdered sugar adds elegance and a subtle sweetness. These bars are easy to make, visually appealing, and perfect for any occasion, from casual snacks to holiday gatherings. With their bright, citrusy flavor and satisfying texture, lemon bars are a must-try dessert that will delight everyone who tastes them.