Old-Fashioned Lemon Bars
Citrus‑laden lemon bars with a buttery crumb, tangy filling, and sweet powdered dust—ideal for brunch, afternoon tea, or a bright finish to any meal today.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Lightly grease a 13 x 9-inch pan.
- In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of the flour with 1/2 cup confectioners sugar.
- Cut in 1 cup butter until crumbly.
- Pat the mixture evenly into the pan.
- Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until lightly browned.
- In a separate large bowl, beat 4 eggs until foamy.
- Add the remaining 1/2 cup flour, 1 1/2 cups sugar, 1/3 cup lemon juice, 1 tablespoon lemon peel, and 1 teaspoon baking powder to the eggs and mix well.
- Pour the lemon mixture over the baked crust.
- Bake for an additional 25 to 30 minutes or until the lemon topping is set and lightly browned.
- Cool completely on a wire rack.
- Dust the cooled bars with confectioners sugar.
- Cut into 1 x 2-inch bars and store in the refrigerator.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using fresh lemon juice and zest instead of bottled. If you need to substitute for butter, coconut oil can work well but may alter the texture slightly. Make sure to allow the bars to cool completely before dusting with confectioners sugar to prevent it from melting into the bars. For a twist, add a pinch of salt to enhance the lemon flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These lemon bars are delightful served chilled and can be garnished with fresh berries or mint for an extra touch. They pair beautifully with hot tea or coffee, making them a perfect afternoon treat. For a unique twist, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. They also complement savory dishes like the Gourmet Mashed Potato Casserole perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover lemon bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. To enjoy them after freezing, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and dust with confectioners sugar just before serving for a fresh look.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old-Fashioned Lemon Bars contains roughly 60 calories, with 1g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 1g 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 make lemon bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare lemon bars a day in advance. Just make sure to store them covered in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together, making them even more delicious. Dust with confectioners sugar just before serving for the best presentation.
What can I use if I don’t have lemon juice?
If you don’t have lemon juice, lime juice can be a great substitute, offering a similar tartness. You could also use white vinegar, but use it sparingly as it has a stronger flavor. Remember that the taste will differ slightly, so adjust according to your preference.
How do I know when the lemon bars are done?
Lemon bars are done when the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle but doesn't appear liquid. They should be lightly browned on top. Once out of the oven, they will continue to set as they cool, ensuring a firm and delicious treat.
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).