Luscious Lemon Bar Cookies

Prep: 15 min Cook: 30 min Serves: 24 Cuisine: American

Lemon bar cookies with a buttery crust and tangy lemon filling, perfect for citrus lovers and suitable for parties, picnics, or afternoon tea gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup margarine or butter
  • dash of salt
  • 2 cups sifted flour
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 4 eggs, beaten
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 1/4 cup sifted flour

Instructions

  1. Make the crust by combining margarine or butter, a dash of salt, 2 cups of sifted flour, and powdered sugar. Press firmly into a 9 x 13-inch pan.
  2. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes or until nicely browned.
  3. Prepare the filling by combining 1/4 cup of sifted flour and sugar.
  4. Mix in the beaten eggs and lemon juice until well blended.
  5. Pour the filling onto the slightly cooled crust.
  6. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for an additional 15 to 20 minutes or until set.
  7. Sprinkle with powdered sugar and allow to cool.
  8. Cut into bars and serve.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. If you don't have lemon juice, freshly squeezed orange juice can be a delightful substitute. Ensure to sift your flour to prevent lumps in the filling. Let the crust cool slightly before adding the filling for the best texture.

Serving Suggestions

These luscious lemon bar cookies are perfect for a light dessert or a sweet snack. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For an extra treat, serve them alongside a scoop of Easy Peach Ice Cream for a refreshing contrast.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover lemon bar cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for up to a week. If you prefer, you can freeze them for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Luscious Lemon Bar Cookies contains roughly 285 calories, with 2g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 479mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).

285 kcal 14% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.5g 5% DV
Total Fat 17.5g 22% DV
Carbs 30.4g 11% DV
Fiber 0.7g 2% DV
Sugar 4.9g 10% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 478.9mg 21% DV
Potassium 145.6mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 51.6mg 17% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 12.6mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 3.7mg 4% DV
Calcium 50.1mg 4% DV
Iron 0.9mg 5% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Egg 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 use fresh lemons instead of bottled lemon juice?

Absolutely! Fresh lemon juice will enhance the flavor of your lemon bar cookies significantly. Just be sure to use the same amount as specified in the recipe.

What can I do if my filling doesn’t set?

If your filling doesn’t set after baking, it may need a bit more time in the oven. Keep an eye on it, and check for a slight jiggle in the center when you take it out.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure your powdered sugar is also gluten-free, and follow the baking times as indicated.

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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