So Easy Lemon Bars
Bright and tangy lemon bars with a buttery cookie crust, perfect for spring gatherings or teatime treats, combining sweet and citrus flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Slice the cookie dough as directed on the package.
- Arrange slices in the bottom of an ungreased 13 x 9 inch pan.
- Lightly flour your fingers and press the dough evenly in the pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 15 to 20 minutes or until light golden brown.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs slightly.
- Add sugar, flour, baking powder, and lemon juice to the eggs and mix well.
- Pour the lemon mixture over the baked cookie crust.
- Bake again at 350°F until the filling is set, about 20 minutes.
- Allow to cool, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding lemon zest to the filling. If you don't have sugar cookies, you can substitute with shortbread or a homemade version. Ensure the lemon juice is fresh for the best taste. Watch the baking times closely, as ovens may vary, and avoid overbaking the filling for a creamier texture.
Serving Suggestions
These lemon bars are perfect for summer gatherings or as a sweet treat after a meal. They pair beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a refreshing beverage, serve with iced tea or lemonade. They also make a delightful addition to any dessert table alongside Grandma Cookies.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover lemon bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, let them thaw in the fridge overnight and serve chilled or at room temperature. Dust with powdered sugar just before serving for an appealing finish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of So Easy Lemon Bars contains roughly 380 calories, with 7g protein, 79g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (52% of the Daily Value), calcium (26% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 578mg per serving (25% 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 make these lemon bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These lemon bars can be made a day in advance. Once baked and cooled, simply cover them and store in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld, making them even more delicious when served the next day.
What can I use if I don't have lemon juice?
If you don't have lemon juice, you can substitute with lime juice for a different citrus flavor. Alternatively, use a combination of vinegar and water for a similar acidity, but keep in mind that the flavor will differ slightly from the original recipe.
How do I know when the filling is set?
The filling is set when it no longer jiggles in the center and has a slightly firm texture. A toothpick inserted should come out mostly clean, with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake, as this can lead to a dry filling.
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).