Are you craving a taste of sunshine? Look no further than these delightful Betty Crocker Lemon Bars! This classic recipe delivers a perfect balance of tangy lemon curd nestled on a buttery, shortbread crust. It’s easier to make than you think, perfect for both beginner bakers and seasoned pros looking for a quick and delicious treat. Whether you need a simple dessert for a weeknight gathering or a show-stopping sweet for a special occasion, these lemon bars will surely impress. Let's get baking!
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, chilled and cut into cubes
For the Lemon Filling:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
Making the Crust:
- Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, powdered sugar, and salt.
- Cut in Butter: Cut in the chilled butter using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press into Pan: Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Pre-bake (Optional): For a crispier crust, bake for 10-12 minutes before adding the filling. This step is optional but recommended.
Making the Lemon Filling:
- Whisk Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, flour, lemon juice, lemon zest, and salt until smooth and well combined.
- Pour over Crust: Pour the lemon filling evenly over the pre-baked crust.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and lightly golden around the edges. Avoid overbaking, as this can make the filling dry.
- Cool Completely: Let the lemon bars cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. This allows the filling to set properly and prevents crumbling.
Tips for the Best Lemon Bars:
- Use Fresh Lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest make a significant difference in flavor.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the filling can incorporate too much air, resulting in a less tender curd.
- Cool Completely: Patience is key! Allowing the bars to cool completely prevents a messy and crumbly result.
- Storage: Store leftover lemon bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Variations:
- Raspberry Lemon Bars: Add 1 cup of fresh or frozen raspberries to the lemon filling for a delightful twist.
- Blueberry Lemon Bars: Substitute blueberries for raspberries.
- Glazed Lemon Bars: Drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze over the cooled bars for extra sweetness.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 250-300 Fat: 12-15g Saturated Fat: 8-10g Cholesterol: 40-50mg Sodium: 80-100mg Carbohydrates: 35-40g Sugar: 25-30g Protein: 3-4g
These values are estimates and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. Enjoy these easy, healthy, and delicious homemade lemon bars! They are perfect for any occasion, from a simple weeknight treat to a more elaborate dessert. This recipe makes a wonderful addition to your collection of best recipes and quick dinner ideas, making homemade cooking a breeze. The bright citrus flavor is sure to brighten up your day, making it a wonderful addition to your repertoire of delicious dishes.