Name: Lemon Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 2 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (for crust); 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for crust); 1/4 tsp salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 4 large eggs; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar (for filling); 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for filling); 1/2 tsp baking powder; 2/3 cup fresh lemon juice; 1 tbsp lemon zest; Powdered sugar, for dusting

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These lemon bars strike the perfect balance between tangy and sweet, with a buttery crust that melts in your mouth and a smooth lemon layer that’s bursting with flavor. They’re easy to make with just a few pantry staples, and they store well, making them ideal for both everyday snacking and special occasions. The bright, zesty lemon flavor makes them a refreshing dessert all year round.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Granulated sugar
Unsalted butter, cold and cubed
Eggs
Fresh lemon juice
Lemon zest
Baking powder
Salt
Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt for the crust. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
While the crust bakes, whisk together eggs, sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, flour, and baking powder until smooth.
Pour the lemon filling over the hot crust as soon as it comes out of the oven.
Return to the oven and bake for another 20–25 minutes, or until the filling is set and no longer jiggly in the center.
Let the bars cool completely in the pan, then refrigerate for 1–2 hours for easier slicing.
Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Servings and timing

Makes 16 lemon bars.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 45 minutes
Chill time: 1–2 hours
Total time: Approximately 2 hours

Variations

Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for both crust and filling.
Extra tart: Add more lemon juice or a pinch of citric acid for a sharper lemon flavor.
Lavender lemon bars: Add a small amount of culinary lavender to the crust for a floral twist.
Berry swirl: Swirl in raspberry or blackberry puree before baking for added color and flavor.
Coconut crust: Replace part of the flour in the crust with shredded coconut for extra texture.

Storage/Reheating

Store lemon bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
To freeze, layer bars with parchment paper in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
No reheating is necessary—these bars are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor, but bottled can be used if necessary.

Why is my lemon filling runny?

The bars may be underbaked. Make sure the filling is fully set and no longer jiggles in the center before removing from the oven.

Can I make lemon bars ahead of time?

Yes, they actually taste better the next day. Chill and store them in the fridge until ready to serve.

Do lemon bars need to be refrigerated?

Yes, due to the egg and citrus filling, they should be stored in the refrigerator.

How do I get clean slices?

Chill the bars well before slicing, and use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts.

What kind of lemons work best?

Regular Eureka or Lisbon lemons work great. Meyer lemons offer a sweeter, less tart flavor.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just bake it in a larger sheet pan and adjust the baking time slightly if needed.

Why did my lemon bars crack on top?

Overbaking or rapid cooling can cause cracking. Let them cool slowly and avoid overmixing the filling.

Can I use a food processor for the crust?

Absolutely—it makes cutting in the butter faster and easier.

Is powdered sugar necessary on top?

It’s optional but adds a nice finishing touch and sweetness to balance the tart lemon layer.

Conclusion

Lemon Bars are a classic dessert that never goes out of style. With their buttery shortbread crust and bright, tangy filling, they offer the perfect balance of textures and flavors. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, they’re great for any occasion—from casual lunches to elegant parties. Keep this recipe on hand whenever you need a fresh, citrusy treat that everyone will love.