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lemon bars

Old-Fashioned Lemon Bars

Gina
We have a sweet Southern Old-fashioned lemon squares treat for you this evening. This irresistible baked old-fashioned lemon bars recipe with shortbread crust is super comforting and delicious.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course Dessert, Easy
Cuisine American
Servings 20 bars
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • Ingredients For Lemon Bars Shortbread Crust:
  • 220 grams all-purpose flour 2 cups
  • 100 grams sugar 1/2 cup
  • 450 grams unsalted butter 1 block cold chopped into cubes
  • 2 grams salt 1/4 teaspoon
  • 6 grams vanilla extract 1 1/4 teaspoon
  • Ingredients For the Lemon Bar Filling:
  • 350 grams whole eggs 7 large eggs
  • 350 grams sugar 1 3/4 cups
  • 240 grams fresh lemon juice 1 cup
  • 120 grams all-purpose flour 1 cup
  • 15 grams fresh lemon zest 3 tablespoons
  • 75 grams confectioners sugar for dusting 3/4 cup

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C)
  • Prepare a 13 inch by 9-inch rectangular baking pan with parchment, covering the bottom and sides, the height of the pan should be about 2 inches.
  • For The Shortbread Crust- Combine the butter and sugar into a mixing bowl of a stand mixer using the paddle attachment and mix at medium-high speed until the mixture is creamy, smooth and sugar is dissolved.
  • Add the 2 cups of all-purpose flour, salt, and vanilla extract, and mix on medium-low speed until a breadcrumb consistency is developed.
  • Transfer the shortbread dough into the baking pan and spread pressing firmly onto the bottom and side of the baking pan.
  • Place into the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown in color.
  • Make The Lemon Filling- Add the sugar and eggs into a medium-size bowl and beat together until well combined.
  • Add the lemon zest and juice and mix until well incorporated.
  • Combine the 1 cup with the egg mixture and mix using a whisk the lemon filling is smooth and without any clumps of flour.
  • Pour the lemon filling into the crust, and bake for 30-35 minutes. The filling will be slightly set in the middle.
  • Once baked, let it cool at room temperature for 50-60 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours adding the confectioner's sugar and serving.
  • Finish off by gently dusting the top of the lemon bars with confectioners icing sugar.
  • Enjoy!
Keyword classic lemon bars, cold lemon desserts, lemon desserts, lemon squares, old fashioned lemon squares