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Sweet & Baked

Chewy Lemon Bars That'll Make Your Aunt Jealous

Buttery shortbread, a filling so tart it makes your eyes water in a good way, and a dusting of powdered sugar for maximum smugness. This is the lemon bar recipe you make when you want to peak too early at a potluck.

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Quick answer: Lemon bars are a buttery shortbread base topped with a tangy-sweet baked lemon custard, dusted with powdered sugar. This version takes 45 minutes total, needs 7 ingredients, and stays fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Overhead shot of chewy lemon bars dusted with powdered sugar, stacked on parchment paper next to fresh lemon slices
Prep15 min
Cook30 min
Total45 min
Serves9 bars

Instructions

1

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Press flour, powdered sugar, and butter into a lined 8×8-inch pan. Bake 18-20 minutes until edges turn golden.

2

Whisk eggs, sugar, lemon juice, flour, and zest until smooth. Pour over the warm crust.

3

Bake 20-22 minutes until the center is just set. Cool completely, dust with powdered sugar, and slice into 9 squares.

Zesty Tip: Roll the lemon on the counter before juicing: you'll get nearly twice as much juice out of it.

Questions people actually ask

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, they keep in the fridge for up to 5 days and actually taste better on day two.

Can I freeze lemon bars?

Absolutely. Freeze unsliced, wrapped tightly, for up to 3 months. Thaw before slicing.

Why is my filling weeping or watery?

Usually it's under-baking: the center should have a very slight jiggle only, not a wave.

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