Lemon Bar Recipe

[Kurt]

A healthy and zesty dessert!

Ingredients:​

For the Crust:​

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Lemon Filling:​

• 4 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

Instructions:​

Prepare the Crust:​

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix Crust Ingredients: In a medium bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. You can use an electric mixer or beat by hand.
3. Add Flour and Salt: Mix in the flour and salt until combined. The dough will be crumbly but should hold together when pressed.
4. Press into Pan: Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake Crust: Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden around the edges.

Prepare the Lemon Filling:​

1. Mix Filling Ingredients: While the crust is baking, in a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, flour, and baking powder until smooth. Add the lemon juice and lemon zest, and whisk until well combined.
2. Pour Over Crust: Once the crust is done baking, remove it from the oven and pour the lemon filling over the hot crust.
3. Bake Again: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and no longer jiggles in the center.
4. Cool: Allow the lemon bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting. This helps the filling set up nicely.
5. Dust with Powdered Sugar: Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar if desired.
6. Cut and Serve: Cut into squares or bars and enjoy!

Tips:​

• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor.
• Zesting: Make sure to zest the lemon before juicing it.
• Storage: Store lemon bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Enjoy your homemade lemon bars!