These Mouthwatering Lemon Bar Cookies combine a buttery, crisp crust with a tangy and smooth lemon filling. With a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, these bars make for an irresistible dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Simple to make and bursting with fresh lemon flavor, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone!

Ingredients

For the crust:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup white sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour

For the filling:
4 eggs
1 1/2 cups white sugar
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 lemons, juiced

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a medium bowl, blend together the softened butter, 2 cups of flour, and 1/2 cup of sugar. Press the mixture into the bottom of an ungreased 9×13-inch baking pan.
Bake the crust for 15-20 minutes or until it is firm and golden.
In another bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 1/2 cups of sugar and 1/4 cup of flour. Add in the eggs and lemon juice, and whisk until smooth.
Pour the lemon mixture over the baked crust and return the pan to the oven.
Bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the lemon filling has set. The bars will firm up as they cool.
Once cooled, sprinkle with powdered sugar and cut into squares.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 bars
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

Lemon Blueberry Bars: Add a handful of fresh blueberries to the lemon filling before baking for a fruity twist.
Gluten-Free Lemon Bars: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these bars gluten-free.
Lemon Coconut Bars: Add shredded coconut to the crust for a tropical flavor combination that pairs wonderfully with the tangy lemon.
Lime Bars: Substitute the lemon juice with fresh lime juice for a refreshing lime version of this dessert.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the lemon bar cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week.
Reheating: These bars are best served at room temperature, but you can also reheat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a slightly warm treat.

10 FAQs

Can I make these lemon bars ahead of time? Yes, these bars can be made a day or two ahead of time. Just store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemons? While fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used as a substitute if needed.
Can I make the crust gluten-free? Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to replace the regular flour in the crust for a gluten-free version.
Can I use margarine instead of butter? Yes, margarine can be used instead of butter, but it may alter the flavor and texture slightly.
How do I know when the lemon bars are done baking? The lemon filling should be set and firm when done. A slight jiggle in the center is normal, but it should not be runny.
Can I freeze these lemon bar cookies? Yes, these bars freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Why do I need to use powdered sugar on top? Powdered sugar adds a sweet finish and enhances the look of the bars, giving them a clean and elegant appearance.
Can I add more lemon juice to make the filling more tart? Yes, you can add an extra tablespoon or two of lemon juice for a more intense lemon flavor, but be cautious not to overpower the filling.
Can I add zest to the filling for more lemon flavor? Yes, adding lemon zest to the filling will intensify the lemon flavor and add a nice aromatic touch.
Can I use a different fruit for the filling? While this recipe is designed for lemons, other citrus fruits such as oranges or grapefruits can also work, though the texture and flavor may change.

Conclusion

Mouthwatering Lemon Bar Cookies are the perfect combination of sweet, tangy, and buttery. With their crispy crust and zesty lemon filling, they are a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether you’re serving them for a special occasion or just craving something sweet, these bars are sure to satisfy your taste buds. With simple ingredients and straightforward directions, they’re a dessert anyone can make and love!