Best Lemon Shortbread Bars
Best Lemon Shortbread Bars
Lemon Shortbread Bars are a delightful treat that perfectly balance sweet and tangy flavors. This recipe will guide you through creating delicious, buttery bars with a zesty lemon filling. They are perfect for a summer dessert, a picnic snack, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth at any time of the year!
Why Make This Recipe
These Best Lemon Shortbread Bars are not only easy to make, but they also pack a punch of flavor. The combination of creamy lemon filling and a crunchy oat crust creates a satisfying texture that is sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, these bars are a great way to use fresh lemons, giving them a bright and refreshing taste, making them a favorite for gatherings and events.
How to Make Best Lemon Shortbread Bars
Follow this simple step-by-step guide to create your own batch of Best Lemon Shortbread Bars:
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup quick cooking oats
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until smooth.
- Mix in the quick cooking oats, flour, and salt until the mixture resembles crumbs.
- Press half of the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a crust.
- In another bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, lemon juice, eggs, lemon zest, and baking powder until well combined.
- Pour the lemon mixture over the crust in the baking dish.
- Crumble the remaining oat mixture on top of the lemon filling.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is lightly golden.
- Once baked, allow to cool before cutting into squares.
How to Serve Best Lemon Shortbread Bars
These bars can be served warm or at room temperature. For an extra touch, dust them with powdered sugar before serving. You can pair them with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which complements the lemon flavor beautifully. Enjoy them with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat!
How to Store Best Lemon Shortbread Bars
To keep your lemon shortbread bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them for about a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Just wrap them in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can last for up to three months in the freezer.
Tips to Make Best Lemon Shortbread Bars
- Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for better mixing.
- Fresh lemon juice and zest will provide the most vibrant flavor.
- For an extra crunch, consider adding chopped nuts to the crust mixture.
- If the bars are browning too quickly, cover them loosely with aluminum foil during baking.
Variations
- Lemon Coconut Bars: Add shredded coconut to the crust for a tropical twist.
- Blueberry Lemon Bars: Swirl in some fresh blueberries into the lemon mixture before baking for a fruity addition.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
FAQs
1. Can I use salted butter?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but it’s best to omit the added salt in the recipe.
2. How can I tell when the bars are done baking?
The bars should be lightly golden on top, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
3. Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?
You can reduce the sugar slightly, but keep in mind that sugar contributes to the texture and flavor balance of the bars.
By following this recipe for Best Lemon Shortbread Bars, you’ll create a delectable dessert that is sure to impress your friends and family. Enjoy baking!
Lemon Shortbread Bars
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until smooth.
- Mix in the quick cooking oats, flour, and salt until the mixture resembles crumbs.
- Press half of the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a crust.
- In another bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, lemon juice, eggs, lemon zest, and baking powder until well combined.
- Pour the lemon mixture over the crust in the baking dish.
- Crumble the remaining oat mixture on top of the lemon filling.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is lightly golden.
- Once baked, allow to cool before cutting into squares.
