Lemon Bars

These Lemon Bars are the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and buttery. They're an easy dessert that tastes like it came from a bakery but fits right into a busy schedule. With a simple cookie crust and bright lemon filling, they come together quickly and chill beautifully for make-ahead entertaining. Whether you’re baking for a gathering or just craving something fresh and citrusy, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

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Lemon Bars

Why You'll Love This Lemon Bars Recipe

• Simple ingredients with no complicated techniques

• Quick prep time makes it perfect for busy schedules

• Bright, refreshing lemon flavor that feels light and uplifting

• Great make-ahead dessert for parties or meal prep

• Uses store-bought dough to save time without sacrificing taste

• Easy to transport for potlucks, holidays, or work events

• Soft, creamy lemon layer with a buttery cookie base

• Budget-friendly dessert that still feels impressive

• Perfect balance of sweet and tangy in every bite

Baking Tips & Tricks

• Let the crust cool slightly before adding the filling to prevent sogginess

• Use room-temperature eggs for a smoother, more even custard layer

• Don’t overbake; center should be just set for a creamy texture

• Chill completely before slicing for clean, sharp edges

• Use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts for bakery-perfect squares

  
  

Lemon Bars Recipe

Prep: 20 mins. | Cook:  20 mins. | Servings: 16

Ingredients:

• 16.5 oz. sugar cookie dough

• 1 stick butter, softened

• 2/3 c. granulated sugar

• ¼ tsp. salt

• ¾ c. all-purpose flour

• 2 eggs, room temperature

• 1 tsp. vanilla extract

• 2 T. fresh lemon juice

• 2 T. lemon zest

• Powdered sugar, for garnish

Let's Get Started!

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees

2. Spray 8x8 inch pan with cooking spray

3. Evenly press sugar cookie dough onto the bottom of the baking pan.

4. Bake for 12 minutes then remove pan from the oven and allow cookie crust to cool.

5. While the cookie crust is cooling, add butter, sugar, salt and flour to a medium bowl, using a hand mixer beat until ingredients are well combined.

6. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, vanilla extract, lemon juice and lemon zest until combined.

7. Pour the liquid mixture into the flour mixture and mix at a medium speed until it is smooth and creamy (about 2 minutes).

8. Gently spread the lemon batter evenly over the cooled cookie dough (dough might still be a little warm).

9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

10. Allow bars to cool, dust with powdered sugar on top and enjoy!!