Lemon curd bars are like a sunny hug on a plate. Imagine the tangy essence of fresh lemons blended with a buttery, crumbly crust that practically melts in your mouth. You can almost hear them whispering, “Eat me!” as you pull them out of the oven. decadent butter tart squares Each bite is a delightful dance between sweet and tart, making them perfect for any occasion — picnic, potluck, or just because it’s Wednesday.

Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What’s the best way to zest lemons?
- Can I freeze Lemon Curd Bars?
- How can I make these bars gluten-free?
- 📖 Recipe Card
These luscious lemon curd bars always remind me of lazy summer days spent lounging in my grandmother’s garden. The scent of freshly squeezed lemons fills the air, while laughter and chatter echo among friends and family. When I bring these bars to gatherings, they vanish faster than I can say “lemon zest,” leaving behind only crumbs and happy faces. indulgent chocolate brownie cake You’ll want to make these for every event because they’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These lemon curd bars are easy to prepare and require minimal ingredients
- The flavor profile perfectly balances brightness and sweetness, making each bite irresistible
- Their vibrant yellow color and smooth texture make them visually appealing on any dessert table
- Versatile enough for brunch or dessert, they are great for any occasion!
I once made these for a friend’s birthday party, and let’s just say the guests were fighting over the last piece — it was glorious!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: Choose high-quality flour for a tender crust that holds its shape beautifully after baking.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar gives sweetness to the crust and balances the tartness of the lemon curd perfectly.
- Unsalted Butter: Use cold butter for the crust; it creates that flaky texture we all love in dessert bars.
- Fresh Lemons: Always opt for fresh lemons; their juice provides vibrant flavor compared to bottled lemon juice.
- Eggs: Large eggs give structure to the curd, helping it set perfectly while adding richness.
- Baking Powder: A small amount helps the crust rise slightly while maintaining its tender texture.
- Powdered Sugar: Dusting with powdered sugar not only adds sweetness but also gives a beautiful finish to your lemon curd bars. classic cinnamon sugar cookies.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While waiting, grab an 8×8 inch baking dish and grease it well with butter or non-stick spray – nobody likes a stuck dessert!
Create Your Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, and baking powder. Cut cold butter into cubes and blend until crumbly using a pastry cutter or your fingers.
Press and Bake the Crust: Firmly press this mixture into your prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until lightly golden brown around the edges.
Prepare Your Lemon Curd Filling: In another bowl, whisk together eggs and sugar until well combined. Add lemon juice and zest; mix until smooth – trust me; it smells heavenly.
Pour Over Pre-Baked Crust: Once your crust is ready, carefully pour the lemon mixture over it, spreading evenly with a spatula.
Bake Again Until Set: Return to the oven for an additional 20-25 minutes or until just set but still jiggly in the center – you want that creamy texture! rich creamy chocolate donuts.
Cool and Serve!: Allow your lemon curd bars to cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar. Cut into squares once cooled; serve chilled or at room temperature. For more inspiration, check out this Lemon Blueberry Cream Cheese Sourdough Bread recipe.
Enjoy these delightful treats at your next gathering! They’re bound to brighten anyone’s day with their zesty charm!
You Must Know
- Lemon Curd Bars are a delightful treat, balancing tartness and sweetness perfectly
- They are quick to prepare, making them ideal for last-minute gatherings
- The aroma of fresh lemons wafting through your kitchen is an instant mood booster
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven while you prepare the crust. Bake until golden, allowing time for the filling to set perfectly.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding a dash of vanilla extract or even coconut flakes for extra flavor and texture in your Lemon Curd Bars.
Storing & Reheating
Store your Lemon Curd Bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Enjoy them cold or at room temperature.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect Lemon Curd Bars, use fresh lemons for the best flavor
- Ensure you don’t overbake the crust; it should be lightly golden
- Allow cooling completely before slicing to minimize messiness
Sometimes, I whip up these bars when life gets hectic. Friends rave about them, making me feel like a dessert superstar!
FAQ
What’s the best way to zest lemons?
Use a microplane grater for fine zest without any bitter white pith.
Can I freeze Lemon Curd Bars?
Yes, wrap them tightly and store in the freezer for up to three months.
How can I make these bars gluten-free?
Simply substitute regular flour with almond or gluten-free flour for a tasty alternative.
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📖 Recipe Card
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Lemon Curd Bars
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 9
Description
Lemon curd bars are a refreshing treat that perfectly balances sweet and tangy flavors. With a buttery, crumbly crust and a smooth lemon filling, these bars provide a delightful burst of citrus in every bite. Perfect for any gathering, they are sure to impress your guests and leave them coming back for seconds. Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients, these bars not only taste amazing but also brighten up any dessert table with their vibrant yellow color.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2–3 lemons)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp baking powder
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix flour, granulated sugar, and baking powder. Cut in the cold butter until crumbly.
- Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 15 minutes until lightly golden.
- Whisk together eggs and granulated sugar in another bowl; then add lemon juice and zest until smooth.
- Pour the lemon mixture over the pre-baked crust evenly.
- Bake again for 20-25 minutes or until just set but still jiggly in the center.
- Allow cooling completely before dusting with powdered sugar and cutting into squares.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (approximately 60g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 105mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 45mg