Lemon Butter Bars
Lemon Butter Bars offer a delightful combination of buttery crust and tangy lemon filling, topped with a dusting of powdered sugar. Perfect for spring gatherings or afternoon tea, their bright citrus flavor and sweet, buttery richness appeal to both citrus lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Lightly coat a 9-inch baking pan with cooking spray.
- Combine 1 1/3 cups of flour and 1/4 cup of sugar to make the crust mixture.
- Add 1/2 cup (1 stick) of butter to the flour-sugar mixture.
- Cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles fine crumbs.
- Pour the crumbs into the prepared pan and smooth evenly, without pressing too tightly.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 15 to 20 minutes, until the edges are just beginning to brown.
- While the crust bakes, prepare the lemon filling by zesting and juicing the lemons, and whisking with egg yolks and sugar as needed.
- Pour the lemon filling over the baked crust and bake until set.
- Allow to cool, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using Meyer lemons if available; their sweetness can enhance the filling. If you're out of cooking spray, butter or parchment paper can work well for greasing the pan. Ensure the eggs are at room temperature for better mixing. When zesting, be careful to avoid the bitter white pith. This recipe is also great with a dollop of whipped cream on top.
Serving Suggestions
These lemon butter bars pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them a perfect afternoon treat. For a refreshing twist, serve with a side of fresh berries or a light salad. They also make a delightful dessert after a hearty meal, such as with Broccoli Brunch Pie. Dust with extra powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover lemon butter bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes to warm them gently without drying out. They can also be enjoyed cold directly from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Butter Bars contains roughly 197 calories, with 3g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of iron (18% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (11% 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 whole eggs instead of egg yolks?
Using whole eggs instead of just yolks will alter the texture and richness of the filling. The yolks provide a creamier consistency and deeper flavor. If you prefer a lighter bar, you might experiment with using one whole egg along with some yolks, but the original recipe is best for achieving that perfect lemony richness.
How do I know when the lemon filling is set?
The lemon filling is set when it no longer jiggles in the center and has a slight firmness to the touch. Typically, it will take around 15 to 20 minutes of baking after pouring it over the crust. Keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking, as it can crack if cooked too long.
Can I freeze lemon butter bars?
Yes, you can freeze lemon butter bars! To freeze, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To thaw, place them in the refrigerator overnight before serving, or let them sit at room temperature for a couple of hours.
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).