Who doesn’t love indulging in a sweet treat that perfectly balances tartness and sweetness? Our Lemon Cake bars are the epitome of a delightful dessert experience, offering a zesty punch in every bite. Not only are they incredibly easy to make, but they also bring the irresistible aroma of lemons into your home, transforming any ordinary day into a sun-kissed celebration.
When I was growing up, my grandmother always had a penchant for lemons. Every summer, her garden would overflow with lemon trees, and she would experiment with countless lemon-based recipes. My favorite of all was the lemon cake bars. Every Sunday, the scent of freshly baked lemon cake wafted through her cozy kitchen, and we’d gather around with eager anticipation. The joy of bonding over her lemon cake bars is a cherished memory that I now share with my family, carrying on her delicious legacy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These lemon cake bars stand out for their simplicity and flavor. The combination of fresh lemon juice and zest creates an incredibly vibrant taste, making each bite refreshing and satisfying. They are perfect for entertaining guests or as a lovely afternoon snack. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is an easy win, even for novice bakers.
Ingredients Notes
The key ingredients include fresh lemons, flour, sugar, and butter. For the most flavorful outcome, use organic lemons if possible, as they are free from pesticides and offer more zest. If you’re out of fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can be a temporary substitute, though the flavors might be less pronounced. Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving excess over the sides to easily lift out the bars.
Step 2
In a bowl, mix together 1 cup of all-purpose flour and 1/4 cup of powdered sugar. Cut 1/2 cup of butter into the mix until crumbly, then press firmly into prepared baking dish. Bake for 15 minutes.
Step 3
While the crust is baking, whisk 1 cup of granulated sugar with 2 tablespoons of flour in a separate bowl. Add 2 large beaten eggs, followed by freshly squeezed juice and zest from 2 lemons, whisking until smooth.
Step 4
Pour the lemon mixture over the hot, pre-baked crust. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until the filling is set and the top begins to brown lightly.
Step 5
Allow the bars to cool in the pan before lifting out using parchment paper. Cut into squares and dust with powdered sugar if desired before serving.
Storage Options
Store these lemon cake bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. They can also be frozen; wrap each bar in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving.
Variations & Substitutions
For a gluten-free option, substitute the flour with almond flour or a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. To enhance flavors, try adding 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract or replace half of the lemon juice with lime juice for a zestier twist. For more texture, incorporate poppy seeds into the batter before baking.
Serving Suggestions
These lemon cake bars are perfect for brunch, afternoon tea, or as a refreshing dessert after a hearty meal. Serve them chilled or at room temperature, pairing beautifully with a cup of hot coffee or a cold glass of iced tea. For a more decadent experience, add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla Ice Cream alongside.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use lime instead of lemon? Absolutely! You can substitute lemon juice with lime juice for a different citrus flavor. This will give your bars a unique edge while retaining the same refreshing qualities. If you go for lime, consider adding a little more zest to boost the citrus profile.
How can I tell when the Lemon Bars are done? The bars are done when the filling is set and no longer jiggles in the center. A gentle golden hue to the top without any flowing liquid indicates readiness. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture, so keep an eye on them during the last few minutes.
What should I do if my lemon bars are too tart? If you find your bars more tart than you’d like, try increasing the sugar in the filling slightly next time. Dusting the top with extra powdered sugar can also balance the tartness. Pairing the bars with something sweet, like Ice Cream, can also help tone down the tartness.
Lemon Cake Bars
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour sifted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter melted
- 2 large eggs beaten
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest freshly grated
- 0.25 cup lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. Add melted butter, eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the bars cool in the pan on a wire rack before cutting into squares.
