Old Fashion Lemon Bars
Bright, tangy lemon bars with a buttery crust and sweet lemon filling, perfect for summer gatherings or a delightful dessert to brighten any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together butter, confectioners sugar, and 2 cups of flour.
- Spread the mixture evenly on an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, beat eggs and mix with salt, sugar, lemon juice, lemon rind, flour, and baking powder.
- Pour the lemon mixture over the baked crust.
- Bake at 325°F for 30 minutes.
- Remove from oven and sprinkle with confectioners sugar.
- Cool for 15 minutes, then cut into oblong finger-shaped pieces.
- Keep lemon bars refrigerated.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using a sugar substitute in place of regular sugar. If you want a more intense lemon flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon extract. To prevent the crust from becoming soggy, ensure it's fully baked before adding the lemon filling. You can also use gluten-free flour as a substitute for those with dietary restrictions, maintaining the deliciousness of this classic dessert.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the lemon bars chilled, dusted with additional confectioners' sugar for an elegant presentation. They pair beautifully with a cup of herbal tea or a light dessert wine. For a special touch, consider offering them alongside Georgia Powell'S Spinach Dip for a delightful contrast of flavors at any gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover lemon bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. This helps maintain their freshness and flavor. If you need to reheat them, do so gently in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, just until slightly warm, to avoid altering the texture too much.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Fashion Lemon Bars contains roughly 649 calories, with 6g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is a good source of iron (14% of the Daily Value), protein (12% of the Daily Value), and calcium (10% 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, but fresh lemon juice will provide a brighter and more vibrant flavor. If using bottled juice, choose a brand without additives for the best taste, as it can impact the overall flavor of your lemon bars.
How do I know when the lemon bars are done baking?
The lemon bars are done when the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly but not liquid. They will firm up as they cool. A toothpick inserted should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs for the perfect texture.
Can I freeze lemon bars?
Yes, lemon bars freeze well! To freeze, cut them into pieces, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to an airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw them in the refrigerator 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).