Single Lemon Bars
Tangy and sweet lemon bars with a buttery crust, perfect for citrus lovers and ideal for afternoon tea or casual gatherings. Bright flavors with a satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix powdered sugar, salt, and flour to form the crust dough.
- Cut in margarine until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press the dough evenly into an 8 x 8-inch baking pan.
- Bake for 15 minutes in the preheated oven.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. You can also add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the crust for extra depth. If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Ensure the crust is evenly pressed into the pan to avoid uneven baking.
Serving Suggestions
These lemon bars are delightful on their own but pair wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For added texture, sprinkle some toasted coconut on top. They also go well with a side of fresh berries or a refreshing salad like Black-Eyed Pea And Corn Salad for a light meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover lemon bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to three months. To enjoy them again, thaw in the refrigerator and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Single Lemon Bars contains roughly 485 calories, with 2g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2137mg per serving (93% 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 regular sugar instead of powdered sugar?
Yes, you can use granulated sugar, but the texture may be slightly grainier. To mimic the smooth texture of powdered sugar, you can blend granulated sugar in a food processor until fine before using it in the crust.
What can I do if the crust is too crumbly?
If the crust mixture is too crumbly, try adding a tablespoon of cold water or an extra tablespoon of margarine to help bind it together. Make sure to mix gently until the dough holds together without being overworked.
Can I add more lemon flavor?
Absolutely! To enhance the lemon flavor, consider adding lemon zest from one or two lemons to the crust. You can also top the bars with a light lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice for an extra zesty kick.
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).