why make this recipe
Lemonade bars are a delightful treat that captures the essence of summer in every bite. With their buttery crust and zesty lemon filling, they provide a perfect blend of sweetness and tartness. These bars are easy to make and are great for parties, picnics, or just enjoying at home. Once you taste them, you’ll understand why they’re a favorite dessert for many!
how to make Lemonade Bars
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup limoncello
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix the flour, powdered sugar, butter, and salt until crumbly. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for about 15 minutes until lightly golden.
- In another bowl, whisk together the limoncello, eggs, granulated sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and baking powder until smooth.
- Pour the mixture over the baked crust.
- Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until set.
- Allow to cool completely, then dust with powdered sugar before cutting into bars.
how to serve Lemonade Bars
Lemonade bars are best served chilled or at room temperature. You can cut them into squares and place them on a platter. For an extra touch, dust them with powdered sugar before serving. They make a refreshing dessert on a hot day, and you can pair them with a cup of tea or lemonade for a delightful treat!
how to store Lemonade Bars
To store lemonade bars, place them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for a couple of days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator, where they can last up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them well before freezing!
tips to make Lemonade Bars
- Ensure your butter is softened but not melted for the best crust texture.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Let the bars cool completely before cutting to avoid a messy presentation.
- Adjust the amount of lemon zest to suit your taste; more zest means a stronger lemon flavor.
variation
You can add a twist to your lemonade bars by incorporating different flavors. Try adding blueberries or raspberries to the lemon filling for a fruity variation. You can also substitute limoncello with other citrus liqueurs, or use a combination for more depth in flavor.
FAQs
Can I make lemonade bars without limoncello?
Yes! You can substitute limoncello with extra lemon juice or lemonade concentrate for a non-alcoholic version.
How do I make lemonade bars gluten-free?
You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour mix instead of regular flour.
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
While bottled lemon juice is convenient, fresh lemon juice will give the bars a fresher and more vibrant flavor. If using bottled, make sure it’s 100% lemon juice with no additives.
Lemonade Bars
Ingredients
For the crust
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened Ensure butter is softened, not melted for best crust texture.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the filling
- 1/4 cup limoncello Can be substituted with extra lemon juice for a non-alcoholic version.
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest Adjust to taste for stronger lemon flavor.
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice Fresh lemon juice recommended for best flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix the flour, powdered sugar, butter, and salt until crumbly. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for about 15 minutes until lightly golden.
Making the Filling
- In another bowl, whisk together the limoncello, eggs, granulated sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and baking powder until smooth.
- Pour the mixture over the baked crust.
- Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until set.
Cooling and Serving
- Allow to cool completely, then dust with powdered sugar before cutting into bars.