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Creamy Lemon Bars on a cooling rack with a buttery crust, smooth lemon filling, and fresh lemon slices

Creamy Lemon Bars

Bright, buttery, and creamy lemon bars that are easy to make and perfect for sharing. A sweet treat that lifts your mood and brings sunshine to your dessert table.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 9 bars
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 220

Ingredients
  

For the crust
  • 1 cup butter, melted or softened
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour Can use a little cornstarch as a substitute
  • 1 pinch salt
For the filling
  • 4 eggs Use room temperature if possible
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice Use fresh juice for best flavor
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour Can use a little cornstarch as a substitute
  • 1 pinch salt
For serving
  • powdered sugar optional for dusting Dust right before serving to prevent melting
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Instructions
 

Preparation
  1. Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 or 9x9 inch pan with parchment paper for easier lifting later.
  2. Make the crust by mixing melted butter, sugar, flour, and a pinch of salt until it resembles damp sand. Press it firmly into the prepared pan.
  3. Bake the crust for about 18 to 22 minutes, or until it is lightly golden at the edges.
  4. While the crust bakes, whisk together the sugar and eggs until smooth, then add the lemon juice, lemon zest, flour, and a pinch of salt. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth.
  5. Pour the filling over the hot crust and return to the oven. Bake for another 18 to 25 minutes, until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
  6. Allow to cool at room temperature, then chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours before slicing.
  7. Dust with powdered sugar right before serving.
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Notes

Let the lemon bars chill well for clean slices. For storage, they can be kept in the fridge and are freezable. Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor.