Lemon Dream Bars
Lemon Dream Bars offer a tangy, sweet lemon flavor with a buttery crust, perfect for citrus lovers and ideal for sharing at gatherings or teatime.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together powdered sugar, butter, salt, and 2 cups of flour.
- Press the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch pan that has been sprayed with Pam.
- Bake for 25 minutes at 325°F (163°C).
- In a separate bowl, combine eggs, sugar, lemon juice, and grated lemon rind.
- Pour the lemon mixture over the baked crust.
- Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until set.
- Allow to cool before cutting into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a slightly different flavor, consider substituting lime juice for the lemon juice. If you prefer a sweeter dessert, increase the powdered sugar in the crust. Ensure the butter is softened for easier creaming with the sugar, and avoid overmixing the lemon filling to keep it light. For a unique twist, add some fresh herbs like basil to the lemon mixture.
Serving Suggestions
These Lemon Dream Bars are delightful on their own, but they pair beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added richness. They also complement a refreshing fruit salad or a cup of tea. For a festive touch, serve alongside slices of Easy Sweet Potato Pie during holiday gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Lemon Dream Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. If you prefer them chilled, you can enjoy them straight from the fridge. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds if you want them warm, but serve them best at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Dream Bars contains roughly 448 calories, with 6g protein, 91g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of iron (15% of the Daily Value) and protein (13% 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 bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Yes, bottled lemon juice can be used in this recipe, but fresh lemon juice will provide a brighter flavor. If using bottled, choose a high-quality brand to ensure the best taste. Additionally, fresh lemon zest will enhance the lemony aroma and flavor, making it worth the effort to use fresh ingredients whenever possible.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to choose a blend that includes xanthan gum, as it helps mimic the texture of regular flour. The bars will still be deliciously tart and sweet, allowing those on gluten-free diets to enjoy this treat without compromising on flavor.
How can I tell when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the lemon filling is set and no longer jiggles in the center. A toothpick inserted into the filling should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on the edges, as they may brown slightly while the center sets. Allowing them to cool completely will also help firm them up.
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).