Lemon Bars (with Shortbread Crust!)

Published: January 1, 2026

by Amelia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Ingredients: This recipe requires only a handful of common ingredients, making it accessible for any home baker.
Perfectly Tangy: The balance of sweet and tart flavors from the lemon juice creates a refreshing dessert that brightens any occasion.
Versatile Treat: These lemon bars can be served at various events—from birthday parties to casual get-togethers—making them a crowd favorite.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, even beginner bakers can achieve delicious results.
Garnish Ready: A dusting of powdered sugar on top adds an elegant finish that enhances both presentation and flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delectable recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Whisk
Baking pan (9×13 inch)
Parchment paper
Sifter

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients evenly without spills.
Whisk: Helps incorporate air into the eggs and mix the batter smoothly for a fluffy texture.
Baking pan (9×13 inch): Provides ample space for your lemon bars, ensuring they bake evenly.
Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

To create these scrumptious lemon bars with a shortbread crust, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Shortbread Crust

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup butter (unsalted, softened)
1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus more to garnish)
½ teaspoon salt

For the Lemon Filling

1 tablespoon lemon zest
2/3 cup lemon juice (about 4-5 lemons total for juice)
4 large eggs
2 cup sugar

How to Make Lemon Bars (with Shortbread Crust!)

Follow these steps to prepare your delicious lemon bars:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your lemon bars bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. This will help you lift out the bars easily after baking.

Step 3: Make the Shortbread Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 cup softened butter, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, and ½ teaspoon salt.
Mix until crumbly but holds together when pressed.
Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan.
Bake for 20 minutes or until lightly golden.

Step 4: Prepare the Lemon Filling

In another bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs, 2 cup sugar, 1 tablespoon lemon zest, and 2/3 cup lemon juice.
Mix until well combined and smooth.

Step 5: Bake It All Together

Pour the lemon filling over the baked shortbread crust.
Return to oven and bake for an additional 25 minutes until set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooled, dust with additional powdered sugar before cutting into squares. Serve chilled or at room temperature for a refreshing treat!

How to Serve Lemon Bars (with Shortbread Crust!)

Serving lemon bars with a shortbread crust is simple, yet there are many delightful ways to enhance this classic dessert. Here are some creative serving suggestions to impress your family and friends.

Classic Presentation

Serve chilled or at room temperature, dusted with powdered sugar for a sweet finish.

With Fresh Berries

Pair lemon bars with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of flavor and color.

Whipped Cream Topping

Add a dollop of whipped cream on top to create a creamy contrast to the tangy lemon filling.

Ice Cream Side

Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla or lemon sorbet for an extra refreshing treat on warm days.

Citrus Garnish

Decorate with thin slices of lemon or additional zest to enhance the citrus aroma and visual appeal.

Tea Pairing

Offer with a cup of herbal tea such as chamomile or mint for a soothing afternoon snack experience.

How to Perfect Lemon Bars (with Shortbread Crust!)

Perfecting your lemon bars is easier than you think. Follow these simple tips for the best results.

Use Fresh Lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides better flavor than bottled juice, making your bars taste brighter.
Chill Before Slicing: Allow your lemon bars to cool completely, then refrigerate them for at least two hours before cutting for cleaner slices.
Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the sugar in the filling according to your taste preferences; this can balance the tartness of the lemons.
Check for Doneness: The filling should be set but slightly jiggly in the center when baking; it will firm up as it cools.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Bars (with Shortbread Crust!)

Pairing side dishes with your lemon bars can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options that complement their bright flavor.

Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the lemon bars.
Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats provide a lovely contrast in texture and flavor alongside lemony goodness.
Chocolate Mousse: Rich chocolate mousse offers a decadent pairing that contrasts nicely with the tartness of lemon.
Almond Cookies: Light and nutty almond cookies can provide an interesting flavor combination with citrus notes.
Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites add creaminess that pairs well without overpowering the lemon flavor.
Pistachio Cake: The earthy flavors of pistachios enhance the overall dessert experience while adding different textures.
Lemon Sorbet: A refreshing sorbet reinforces the citrus theme and cleanses the palate beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making lemon bars can be a delightful experience, but certain mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some common pitfalls to steer clear of:

Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can cause uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.
Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can lead to tough lemon bars. Mix just until combined for a tender texture.
Not Using Fresh Lemons: Bottled lemon juice lacks flavor and freshness. Use fresh lemons for the best taste and zest.
Ignoring Cooling Time: Cutting into warm lemon bars can make them fall apart. Allow them to cool completely before slicing.
Skipping the Powdered Sugar Garnish: Garnishing with powdered sugar enhances presentation and flavor. Don’t skip this finishing touch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Keep in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Freezing Lemon Bars (with Shortbread Crust!)

Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Lemon Bars (with Shortbread Crust!)

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
Microwave: Heat one bar at a time for about 10-15 seconds on high.
Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, covering with a lid for even warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Lemon Bars (with Shortbread Crust!), you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use a different type of crust?

You can try a graham cracker crust or an almond flour crust for a gluten-free option.

How do I know when my lemon bars are done?

The edges should be set while the center slightly jiggles. They will firm up as they cool.

Can I add other flavors to my lemon bars?

Yes! Adding lime juice or orange zest can create delicious variations.

What is the best way to cut lemon bars?

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean cuts; wipe between cuts for neat slices.

Final Thoughts

These Lemon Bars (with Shortbread Crust!) are sweet, tangy, and perfect for any occasion. Their gooey filling paired with buttery shortbread makes them irresistible. Feel free to customize with different citrus or toppings like coconut or berries!

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