Bright, tangy, and sweet, these Easter lemon dessert bars are a perfect treat for spring celebrations. They feature a buttery, crisp crust topped with a zesty lemon filling that is both refreshing and indulgent.
Ingredients
Crust:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Lemon Filling:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
- Zest of 2 lemons
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
- Prepare the crust: In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in flour and salt until mixture is crumbly.
- Press the crust evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
- While the crust cools, prepare the lemon filling: In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, and flour until smooth. Stir in lemon juice and zest until well combined.
- Pour the lemon filling over the baked crust and return to oven. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until filling is set and slightly firm to the touch.
- Allow bars to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing into squares or rectangles.
- Optional: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice.
Tips for Perfect Lemon Bars
- Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor.
- Ensure the crust is fully cooled before adding the filling to prevent cracking.
- Chill bars for clean, neat slices.
- For extra zest, sprinkle a bit of lemon zest on top before serving.
Conclusion
These Easter lemon dessert bars are a sweet and tangy addition to any holiday spread. The buttery crust paired with the zesty lemon filling creates a refreshing balance that’s sure to impress guests. They’re perfect for spring celebrations, family gatherings, or simply enjoying as a cheerful treat any day.