Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated white sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups granulated white sugar
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 medium lemons, juiced (about ½ cup fresh lemon juice)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, ½ cup sugar, and 2 cups flour until a crumbly dough forms. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden and set.
Step 3: While the crust bakes, prepare the lemon filling. In another bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 ½ cups sugar and ¼ cup flour. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking until smooth. Stir in the fresh lemon juice until well combined.
Step 4: Once the crust is ready, pour the lemon filling over it. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and no longer jiggles when shaken gently.
Step 5: Allow the lemon bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up. Cut into squares, dust with powdered sugar if desired, and serve.
For a fun twist, try using limes instead of lemons and add a drop of green food coloring for a vibrant green hue. Arrange lemon and lime bars in a checkerboard pattern for a stunning presentation!
Enjoy these creamy, tangy, and utterly delicious lemon bars as the perfect dessert or afternoon treat!
