Description
These Lemon Pistachio Bars feature a buttery pistachio crust topped with a tangy lemon filling, finished with a dusting of powdered sugar. Perfectly balanced with nutty and citrus flavors, they make a delightful dessert or snack for any occasion.
Ingredients
Crust Ingredients
- 1 cup (125g) all purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
- ¼ cup (30g) powdered sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter (cut into small cubes, about 20 pieces)
- ¼ cup (35g) finely chopped shelled pistachios
Filling Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 1¼ cups (250g) granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons (26g) all purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- Finely grated zest of 2 medium-sized lemons (about 1½ tablespoons)
- ⅓ cup (78 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup (35g) coarsely chopped shelled pistachios
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper or foil and lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Crust: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the cubed butter and mix until the butter breaks down into small, pea-sized pieces. Stir in the finely chopped pistachios. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan using the bottom of a glass or measuring cup. If the dough is sticky, place a piece of parchment paper on top before pressing. Bake the crust for about 15-20 minutes, or until the edges start to turn light brown.
- Make the Filling: While the crust bakes, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, flour, baking powder, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined. Stir in the coarsely chopped pistachios.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the lemon filling evenly over the pre-baked crust, distributing the pistachios evenly. Return the pan to the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the filling is set.
- Cool and Finish: Remove the pan from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar before slicing into bars and serving.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh lemons for zest and juice to ensure bright, fresh flavor.
- Make sure to finely chop pistachios for the crust and coarsely chop them for the filling for texture contrast.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing to ensure clean cuts.
- You can store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
