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Judy John

Classic Lemon Bars Recipe

Classic Lemon Bars Recipe features a buttery shortbread base layered with vibrant lemon custard and a delicate powdered sugar finish.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Calories: 280
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Shortbread Crust:
  • 1 cup 226 g unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup 100 g granulated sugar
  • 2 cups 250 g all-purpose flour
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Lemon Filling:
  • 1 ½ cups 300 g granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup 30 g all-purpose flour
  • 4 large eggs
  • ⅔ cup 160 ml fresh lemon juice (about 3–4 lemons)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
For Topping:
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar for dusting

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. Beat 1 cup butter and ½ cup sugar until creamy and smooth.
  3. Add 2 cups flour and ¼ teaspoon salt. Mix until crumbly dough forms.
  4. Press mixture evenly into prepared pan.
  5. Bake crust for 18–20 minutes until lightly golden.
  6. Whisk 1 ½ cups sugar and ¼ cup flour in a bowl.
  7. Add 4 eggs, ⅔ cup lemon juice, and zest. Whisk until smooth.
  8. Pour filling over hot crust immediately after removing from oven.
  9. Return pan to oven. Bake 18–20 minutes until center sets.
  10. Cool completely on rack for at least 1 hour.
  11. Dust with powdered sugar using sieve.
  12. Slice into 12 equal squares and serve.

Notes

Nutritional Values (Per Serving)

Calories: 280
Total Fat: 13 g
Saturated Fat: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 38 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 4 g
Vitamins & Minerals (Approximate % per serving):
Vitamin A: 10%
Vitamin C: 15%
Calcium: 2%
Iron: 6%
Potassium: 3%

Additional Notes & Flavor Tips

  • Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for vibrant citrus flavor.
  • Add extra zest for stronger aroma.
  • Chill bars before slicing for cleaner edges.
  • Sprinkle flaky sea salt lightly on top for contrast.
  • Store refrigerated in airtight container up to 4 days.
Classic Lemon Bars Recipe turns simple ingredients into bakery-worthy magic without drama.