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Judy John

Lemon Dessert Bars

These lemon dessert bars combine a buttery crust with a smooth, tangy lemon filling. They offer bright citrus flavor, a tender texture, and an easy preparation method that makes them ideal for parties, holidays, or everyday desserts.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 18 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 175
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Crust
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour leveled
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar for crust
  • 3/4 cup butter cold and cubed
Lemon Filling
  • 2 large eggs room temperature
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest finely grated
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour for thickening

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring Cups
  • Baking Pan
  • Cooling Rack
  • Freezer
  • Spatula
  • Tray
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven and prepare a baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. Mix flour, powdered sugar, and butter until crumbly. Press firmly into the pan.
  3. Bake the crust until lightly golden and set around the edges.
  4. Whisk eggs, sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and flour until smooth.
  5. Pour the filling over the warm crust and spread evenly.
  6. Bake until the center is just set. Cool completely, chill, then slice into bars.

Notes

For softer bars, reduce baking slightly and chill thoroughly before slicing. For a firmer texture, bake until fully set. Freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Handle chilled bars during assembly and cutting for cleaner edges. Customize flavor with lime zest, orange zest, or berries. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.