Description

These Meyer Lemon Bars with Extra Buttery Shortbread Crust are a delightful treat, showcasing zesty lemon flavor and a tender crust. The simple prep and fresh ingredients make this dessert an excellent choice for any gathering.

Ingredients

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1 cup all purpose flour
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, replace with flour if omitting)
½ cup powdered sugar
pinch of salt
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
½ teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
3 large eggs, room temperature, whisked
1¼ cup granulated sugar
½ cup all purpose flour
1 tablespoon lemon zest
½ cup fresh lemon juice
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
¼ teaspoon lemon extract (optional)
powdered sugar for dusting
lemon slices for garnish or lemon zest

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease or line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper or cooking spray.
For the crust, whisk together sugar, flour, salt, and lemon zest in a medium bowl. Stir in melted butter and vanilla until a thick dough forms.
Press the dough into the prepared pan, creating a lip by going about ¾ inch up the sides. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown around the edges.
To make the filling, whisk together sugar, flour, and lemon zest. Add whisked eggs, lemon juice, and extracts, mixing until smooth.
Remove the crust from the oven and reduce the temperature to 325°F. Poke shallow holes in the crust with a fork if desired.
Pour the filling over the warm crust and bake for 20-22 minutes until just set and edges are brown.
Cool the bars on a wire rack at room temperature, then wrap and refrigerate for 1-2 hours or overnight.
Slice the bars, serve chilled or at room temperature, and dust with powdered sugar. Garnish with lemon slices or zest.

Notes

For best results, use fresh lemon juice for a vibrant flavor.
Refrigerate the bars overnight for enhanced taste and texture.
These bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 212
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 72mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 55mg