Janie'S Lemon Bars
Janie's Lemon Bars offer a tangy, sweet treat with a buttery crust, perfect for lemon lovers and ideal for gatherings or casual desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift 2 cups of flour and powdered sugar together.
- Cut in the margarine until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press the mixture evenly into a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes or until lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on Janie's Lemon Bars, consider substituting half the granulated sugar with honey or agave syrup for a more natural sweetness. If you're out of margarine, unsalted butter can be used instead, yielding a richer flavor. For a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Sifting the dry ingredients ensures a lighter texture in the final product.
Serving Suggestions
These lemon bars are delightful served chilled with a dusting of powdered sugar on top. Pair them with a scoop of Fran'S Ice Cream Surprise for an indulgent dessert experience. A side of fresh berries or a light Cilantro Corn Salad can complement the tartness of the bars beautifully, making for a refreshing summer treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover lemon bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, simply microwave for 10-15 seconds or enjoy them cold, as the flavors often deepen when chilled.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Janie'S Lemon Bars contains roughly 1187 calories, with 12g protein, 251g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value), calcium (41% of the Daily Value), and protein (23% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 887mg per serving (39% of the Daily Value).
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 use fresh lemons instead of bottled lemon juice?
Absolutely! Fresh lemon juice will enhance the flavor of your lemon bars significantly. You'll need about two to three medium lemons for 1/3 cup of juice. Just remember to zest the lemons before juicing them to add an extra layer of citrus flavor.
How can I tell when the lemon bars are done baking?
The lemon bars are done when the edges are lightly browned and the center is set but still slightly jiggly. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Allow them to cool completely before slicing for the best results.
Can I freeze lemon bars?
Yes, lemon bars freeze well! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
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).