Lemon Love Notes
Lemon Love Notes are tangy, sweet lemon bars with a buttery crust and zesty lemon topping, perfect for brightening any occasion and appealing to citrus lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix butter, 1 cup flour, and 1 cup sugar until well combined.
- Press mixture into an ungreased 9x13 inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 8 minutes or until golden.
- In a separate bowl, combine confectioners sugar, 2 tablespoons flour, and baking powder.
- Add beaten eggs, lemon juice, and lemon peel to the dry ingredients and mix well.
- Pour the lemon mixture evenly over the baked crust.
- Bake at 350°F for an additional 25 minutes or until set.
- Allow to cool completely, then sprinkle with additional confectioners sugar.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure your butter is softened but not melted when mixing with sugar and flour. You can substitute the lemon peel with orange peel for a different zest. If you prefer, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour to cater to gluten-free diets. Consider adding a touch of vanilla extract for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Lemon Love Notes as a delightful dessert at gatherings or alongside a cup of tea for a refreshing afternoon treat. They pair beautifully with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. For a complete meal, consider serving with light salads or as part of a dessert platter with other sweet treats like Divine Sugar Cookies.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Lemon Love Notes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place squares in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or until just warm, ensuring they don’t dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Love Notes contains roughly 306 calories, with 1g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 21g fat.
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 lemon juice instead of lemon peel?
Yes, you can substitute lemon peel with fresh lemon juice, but use it sparingly to ensure the mixture isn't too wet. About 1 tablespoon of lemon juice can replace the zest. This will still provide a lovely lemon flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dessert.
What can I use instead of butter?
If you need a dairy-free option, you can substitute the butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative. This will maintain the moisture and texture of the dessert while making it suitable for those avoiding dairy.
Can I make these in advance?
Absolutely! Lemon Love Notes can be made a day ahead. Just be sure to cool them completely before storing them in an airtight container. This will help the flavors meld beautifully and make them even more delicious when served.
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).