Annette'S Lemon Bars

Prep: 15 min Cook: 15 min Cuisine: American

Lemon bars with a buttery crust and tangy lemon filling, perfect for a sweet, citrusy treat suitable for gatherings or afternoon snacking.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup sifted powdered sugar
  • 2 cups flour

Instructions

  1. Cream the butter and powdered sugar until light in color.
  2. Gradually add flour, blending well.
  3. Pat the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch baking pan, ensuring it goes up the sides to prevent filling from spilling over.
  4. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes until the crust begins to brown.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using salted butter instead of unsalted. If you need a gluten-free option, substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend. To enhance the lemon flavor, you can add lemon zest to the crust. Be sure to keep an eye on the baking time; the crust should be lightly browned but not overcooked.

Serving Suggestions

These lemon bars are delightful served plain or dusted with additional powdered sugar. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them a perfect afternoon treat. For a twist, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover lemon bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To reheat, use the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or enjoy them chilled. For a firmer texture, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Annette'S Lemon Bars contains roughly 1196 calories, with 7g protein, 76g carbohydrates, and 98g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (91% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein.

1196 kcal 60% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 7.2g 14% DV
Total Fat 97.9g 100% DV
Carbs 75.8g 28% DV
Fiber 1.6g 6% DV
Sugar 29.6g 59% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 15mg 1% DV
Potassium 93.6mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 258mg 86% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 820.8mcg 91% DV
Calcium 38.1mg 3% DV
Iron 2.8mg 16% DV
Contains Milk Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these lemon bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare these lemon bars a day in advance. Just let them cool completely before cutting and storing them in the refrigerator. They will taste even better as the flavors meld overnight.

What can I do if the crust is too crumbly?

If your crust is crumbly, it's possible that the butter wasn't fully incorporated. Try adding a tablespoon of cold water to the mixture to help it hold together better. Make sure to blend the ingredients until the mixture forms a cohesive dough.

Can I add a lemon filling to these bars?

Yes, you can add a lemon filling to these bars for an extra zing! Simply prepare a lemon curd and pour it over the baked crust before returning it to the oven for a few more minutes. This will give you a delicious layered lemon bar.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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