Lemon Pie Bars are a delightful dessert featuring a buttery shortbread crust topped with a tangy and sweet lemon custard, finished with a dusting of powdered sugar.
Author:Beth
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:45 minutes
Total Time:3 hours (including chill time)
Yield:16 bars 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour, divided
1/4 tsp salt
4 large eggs
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar (for filling)
1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for filling)
1/2 tsp baking powder
3 tbsp lemon zest
2/3 cup fresh lemon juice
Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
In a bowl, cream butter and 1/2 cup sugar until light and fluffy. Add 2 cups flour and salt; mix until crumbly.
Press the dough into the prepared pan to form an even crust. Bake for 18–20 minutes until lightly golden.
While crust is baking, whisk together eggs, 1 1/2 cups sugar, 1/4 cup flour, baking powder, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth.
Pour the lemon mixture over the warm crust and return to oven. Bake an additional 20–25 minutes until set.
Cool completely in the pan, then chill for at least 2 hours in the refrigerator.
Lift out using parchment, dust with powdered sugar, and slice into bars.
Notes
Use fresh lemons for the best flavor and aroma.
Ensure the crust is slightly cooled before pouring in the lemon filling to avoid sogginess.
Chilling is key for clean slices and proper setting of the filling.
Add extra zest for a more intense lemon flavor if desired.