Dessert

Lemon Bars

Name: Lemon Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 16 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; ½ cup granulated sugar; 2 cups all-purpose flour; ¼ teaspoon salt; 4 large eggs; 1½ cups granulated sugar; ¼ cup all-purpose flour; ½ teaspoon baking powder; 6 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (for dusting)

Lemon bars are the classic two-layer bar: a crisp, buttery shortbread base topped with a silky, tart-sweet custard filling. The contrast between the sweet, crumbly crust and bright lemon topping makes them irresistible.

285calper serving 4gprotein 40gcarbs 13gfat 15min prep 40min cook 16serves

✓ Macros from a nutrition database · per serving · developed by The Delicious Kitchen with AI assistance, not independently kitchen-tested · how we calculate this

Members

Create a free account to see the full recipe

Free members get the full ingredients, step-by-step method and the ability to save favorites.

Start free Log in

Lemon Bars — common questions

Why are my lemon bars runny in the middle?

You are underbaking them; the filling should be set at the edges and only slightly jiggly in the absolute center, not liquid throughout. Bake the full 20–25 minutes, then refrigerate before cutting to allow the custard to firm up.

Can I make lemon bars ahead?

Yes. Bake and cool completely, then cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze (cut into bars) for up to 1 month. You can also prepare the unbaked pan up to 8 hours ahead, refrigerate it, and bake when ready.

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Fresh lemon juice gives a brighter, more balanced flavor, but bottled will work in a pinch; use the same amount and reduce it slightly as bottled is often more acidic.

What if I do not have a 9x13-inch pan?

An 8x8-inch square pan will work but will yield thicker, chewier bars; increase the bake time by 5–10 minutes and watch for doneness with a toothpick.

How do I store leftover lemon bars?

Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 4 days, or freeze in an airtight container for up to 1 month. They are excellent cold or at room temperature.

Can I freeze lemon bars?

Yes. Cool, cut, and layer between parchment in an airtight container; freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature for about 1 hour before serving.