Ingredients
• The Flaky Crust: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, ½ cup powdered sugar, and ¾ cup cold unsalted butter (cubed).
• The Creamy Filling: 4 large eggs, 1 ½ cups granulated sugar, ¼ cup all-purpose flour, ½ cup fresh lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon lemon zest.
• The Topping: 1 cup heavy whipping cream (whipped with 2 tablespoons powdered sugar) or a layer of creamy frosting, finished with extra lemon zest for garnish.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 175°C. In a bowl, combine flour and powdered sugar. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. Bake the Base: Bake for 15–20 minutes or until the edges are very lightly golden.
3. Mix the Filling: While the crust bakes, whisk together the eggs, sugar, flour, lemon juice, and zest until smooth and slightly frothy.
4. Second Bake: Pour the lemon mixture over the hot crust. Return to the oven and bake for another 20–25 minutes until the filling is set.
5. Cool & Layer: Let the bars cool completely in the pan. Once cool, spread the whipped cream or frosting layer evenly over the top as seen in the images.
6. Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh lemon zest and slice into squares.
Why These are a Family Favorite
• Texture Contrast: The light, flaky crust provides the perfect base for the smooth and creamy citrus filling.
• Balanced Flavor: The tartness of the fresh lemon juice is perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the filling and the creamy topping.
• Fun to Serve: These bars are easy to slice and serve, making them a “fun to eat” treat for both kids and adults.