Lemon Bars With Shortbread Crust

These easy Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust are made with just seven simple ingredients. A buttery base and bright tangy lemon layer make them perfect for family gatherings and spring desserts.

this recipe!

Love lemon desserts? Try my glazed lemon loaf and lemon cheesecake bars next!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 cup all purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 tbsp. + 1 tsp. all purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp. baking powder
• 1/8 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 3 tsp, grated lemon zest
• 3 tbsp. lemon juice
• 2 tbsp. powdered sugar

Step by Step Instructions

STEP ONE – Preheat oven to 325°F.

STEP TWO – Grease and flour an 8×8-inch glass baking dish. You can also line the baking dish with parchment paper.

STEP THREE – In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and granulated sugar. Add in the room temperature butter and mix with clean hands or with a pastry blender. Mixture will be crumbly.

STEP FOUR – Sprinkle the crumbly mixture into the bottom of the prepared 8×8-inch baking dish. Spread the mixture out as evenly as possible before you start to press it down. This will ensure a nice, even crust layer.

STEP FIVE – Bake the crust in a preheated 325°F oven for 25 minutes.

STEP SIX – MEANWHILE, PREPARE THE LEMON FILLING: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, (if using unsalted butter), beaten eggs, lemon juice and lemon zest. Set mixture aside until the crust has finished baking.

STEP SEVEN – Remove the baked crust from the oven and set on a heat-proof surface.

STEP EIGHT – Pour the mixture into the baking dish on top of the baked crust and bake in 325°F oven for 25 minutes.

STEP NINE – Cool for one to two hours at room temperature before cutting and serving. Use a fine sieve to sprinkle powdered sugar over top and enjoy!

Storage & Freezing Instructions

Let the lemon bars cool completely, then cover and refrigerate for up to one week. Dust with powdered sugar just before serving. Enjoy them chilled or at room temperature.

These bars freeze well. Let them cool completely, then place the cut squares in a freezer-safe container. Add an extra layer of plastic wrap or foil for added protection.] Thaw in refrigerator, then bring to room temperature before serving.