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Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust

Creamy Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust for Sweet Sunshine

Delightful creamy lemon bars with buttery shortbread crust, perfect for spring and summer gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Cooling Time 2 hours
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Shortbread Crust
  • 1 cup Butter Can use vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
  • 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar Coconut sugar can be used for a darker flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract Almond extract can be used for a different flavor profile.
  • 2 cups All-Purpose Flour Use 1:1 gluten-free flour mix for gluten-free bars.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Sea Salt Can use kosher salt as an alternative.
For the Creamy Lemon Filling
  • 4 large Eggs No egg substitutes are recommended for this recipe.
  • 1/2 cup Heavy Cream Non-dairy heavy cream can be used but has not been tested.
  • 1 cup Lemon Juice Always use freshly squeezed lemon juice for best flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest No substitution recommended; it's essential.
  • 1 cup Powdered Sugar Direct substitution impacts visual appeal and sweetness.
For Serving
  • 1 cup Fresh Berries Perfect for adding a touch of elegance.
  • 1 cup Whipped Cream Makes the dessert even more indulgent.

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch glass baking pan
  • mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • parchment paper

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Stir until blended and add all-purpose flour, mixing until thick dough forms. Press into the prepared pan and bake for 20 minutes.
  3. In another bowl, sift together sugar, flour, and a pinch of salt. Whisk in eggs, heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
  4. Pour the lemon filling over the crust and bake at 325°F (160°C) for 30-35 minutes or until set.
  5. Remove from oven and cool at room temperature for about 2 hours, then refrigerate for 1-2 hours before serving.
  6. Dust with powdered sugar before serving and cut into squares. Serve with fresh berries or whipped cream.

Nutrition

Serving: 1barCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 3gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Dust with powdered sugar just before serving to maintain visual appeal.

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