If you’re longing for a sunshine-bright dessert that’s buttery, tangy, and completely irresistible, the Classic Lemon Bars Recipe is your ticket to pure citrus bliss. These dreamy bars pair a tender, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread crust with a rich lemon filling that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and puckery. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you’ll be rewarded with a cheerful treat that tastes like summer on a plate. Trust me, this Classic Lemon Bars Recipe is about to become your new go-to for every occasion!

Classic Lemon Bars Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Classic Lemon Bars Recipe lies in everyday ingredients working together to create a showstopper. Each one plays a crucial role in creating those signature layers and that unforgettable zesty flavor. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

Unsalted Butter (1 cup, softened): The foundation of your crust—soft butter ensures it’s both tender and flavorful without overpowering the lemon.
Granulated Sugar (2 cups, divided use): Some for the crust, some for the filling—a little sweetness in both layers perfectly balances the tartness.
All-Purpose Flour (2 1/4 cups, divided use): Flour gives structure to the crust and helps thicken the lemon filling so your bars slice cleanly.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): A pinch enhances all the other flavors and keeps the crust from being bland.
Large Eggs (4): These make the filling silky, custardy, and rich, binding everything together.
Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice (2/3 cup, from 3–4 lemons): The most important ingredient—fresh lemon juice brings that authentic, zingy pop you expect!
Lemon Zest (1 tablespoon, optional): For extra aromatic brightness, a bit of zest adds complexity and even more lemony flavor.
Powdered Sugar (for dusting, optional): A light dusting makes the bars look prettily finished and adds a whisper of sweetness.

How to Make Classic Lemon Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat

Begin by heating your oven to 350°F. To guarantee your bars lift out easily later, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or, for even less fuss, line the bottom and sides with parchment paper. This first step will ensure clean edges when you slice into your Classic Lemon Bars Recipe.

Step 2: Mix and Bake the Shortbread Crust

In a medium mixing bowl, combine your softened butter and 1/2 cup of the granulated sugar. Cream them together until the mixture looks light and fluffy. Add in 2 cups of the all-purpose flour and the salt, then stir just until a crumbly dough forms. Don’t overwork it—you want this crust to stay delicate. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, until it’s lightly golden around the edges. This step forms the sturdy, melt-in-your-mouth base for every square in your Classic Lemon Bars Recipe.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Zesty Lemon Filling

While the crust bakes, get started on that luscious filling. In a large bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar and 1/4 cup flour. Next, whisk in all four eggs, then pour in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and, if you like, add the zest. Mix until it’s totally smooth and well blended—this is what gives your lemon bars their signature tart brightness and custardy texture.

Step 4: Layer and Bake Again

Once the crust emerges from the oven—hot and ready—slowly pour the lemon filling over the top. Work carefully so the two layers don’t mix. Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 20 to 22 minutes. The filling should set and no longer jiggle in the center when you give the pan a gentle shake. This ensures each bite of your Classic Lemon Bars Recipe has the perfect texture.

Step 5: Cool, Chill, and Slice

Let your lemon bars cool completely right in the pan. For the cleanest cuts and best flavor, pop the entire pan into the fridge for at least 2 hours. Once thoroughly chilled, lift out (thanks, parchment paper!) and dust with a snowy layer of powdered sugar. Slice into bars, and get ready for a taste of pure sunshine with every bite.

How to Serve Classic Lemon Bars Recipe

Garnishes

Sometimes a dusting of powdered sugar is all you need, but why not add a twist? Sprinkle a bit of extra fresh lemon zest or garnish each piece with a slice of candied lemon or a few edible flowers. These simple touches make your Classic Lemon Bars Recipe look extra inviting and special.

Side Dishes

Pair the bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a cool and creamy contrast. If you’re looking for something lighter, arrange a little bowl of fresh berries—raspberries or blueberries especially love the company of bright, tangy lemon.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, try slicing the bars into bite-size squares and arrange them on a colorful serving tray. Want a really eye-catching dessert table? Stack the bars in a tiered display or serve each on a mini plate with a fork and a little swirl of berry coulis. The Classic Lemon Bars Recipe is so versatile, it shines in both casual and elegant settings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Classic Lemon Bars Recipe slices keep beautifully! Just cover the bars tightly with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. Pop them in the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh and zesty for up to four days. In fact, the lemon flavor can become even more pronounced after a day or two.

Freezing

If you want to make the bars in advance, freeze them in a single layer (or between sheets of parchment paper if stacked) in an airtight container. They’ll keep for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then dust with fresh powdered sugar just before serving to restore their perfect finish.

Reheating

Classic Lemon Bars Recipe are usually best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, but if you prefer them slightly warm, leave them out on the counter for about 30 minutes after refrigerating. Avoid microwaving, which can make the crust soggy and affect the filling’s delicate texture.

FAQs

Why did my lemon bars turn out runny in the middle?

Your lemon bar filling sets while baking, so if it’s runny, it probably needed more time in the oven. Make sure the center no longer jiggles when you gently shake the pan before taking them out.

Can I double the Classic Lemon Bars Recipe for a crowd?

Absolutely! Simply use a larger baking pan or two 9×13-inch pans. Keep a close eye on bake times, as extra volume might need a few extra minutes both for the crust and the filling.

Do I really need to use fresh lemon juice?

Freshly squeezed lemon juice gives you that unmatched, zingy flavor. Bottled juice can taste flat or overly bitter, so if possible, stick to fresh for the best Classic Lemon Bars Recipe experience.

How do I get clean, neat slices?

For perfect squares, always chill the bars thoroughly before cutting. Use a sharp knife, and wipe it clean between slices. Lining your baking pan with parchment really helps too!

What makes this Classic Lemon Bars Recipe stand out?

The balanced ratio of tart lemon to sweet shortbread, a silky but sturdy filling, and the bright, real lemon flavor all set this version apart. It’s truly a crowd-pleaser that looks as good as it tastes!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’ll give this Classic Lemon Bars Recipe a spot in your dessert rotation! Each bite is lemony, buttery happiness, sure to brighten any meal or get-together. Once you’ve tasted just how easy and scrumptious these bars are, you might find yourself making them again and again—just like I do. Happy baking!

Classic Lemon Bars Recipe

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4.6 from 14 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 55 minutes (plus chilling)
Yield: 16 bars 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Classic Lemon Bars are the perfect combination of sweet and tangy, with a buttery crust and a luscious lemon filling. Easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser, these bars are a great dessert for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

For the crust:

1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the filling:

1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
4 large eggs
2/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 3–4 lemons)
1 tablespoon lemon zest (optional)
powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat oven and prepare the pan: Preheat oven to 350°F and grease or line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
Make the crust: Cream together butter and sugar, mix in flour and salt, then press into the pan and bake until golden.
Prepare the filling: Whisk together sugar and flour, add eggs, lemon juice, and zest, then pour over the hot crust.
Bake and chill: Bake until set, cool, refrigerate, and dust with powdered sugar before serving.