Are you craving a burst of sunshine on a plate? Then look no further! These gluten-free lemon bars are the perfect treat – tangy, sweet, and surprisingly easy to make. Whether you're looking for a delicious dessert for a special occasion or a simple, healthy snack, this recipe is a winner. Forget those store-bought, overly sugary versions; this homemade recipe lets you control the sweetness and ensures a delightful, melt-in-your-mouth texture. This is one of those easy recipes the whole family will adore.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups almond flour
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
For the Lemon Filling:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- ¼ cup all-purpose gluten-free flour blend (make sure it’s certified gluten-free)
Instructions:
Making the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8x8 inch baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, combine the almond flour, powdered sugar, and salt.
- Pour in the melted butter and mix until a crumbly dough forms. Don't overmix!
- Press the dough firmly and evenly into the prepared baking pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to create an even layer.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Let it cool completely.
Making the Lemon Filling:
- While the crust is baking and cooling, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar in a large bowl until light and frothy. This is crucial for a light and airy texture.
- Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and gluten-free flour until well combined. Be sure there are no lumps.
- Pour the lemon filling over the cooled crust.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and just slightly jiggly in the center. Overbaking will result in a dry filling.
Cooling and Serving:
- Let the lemon bars cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. This allows the filling to set properly and prevents crumbling.
- Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar (optional) for an extra touch of sweetness.
Tips for the Best Lemon Bars:
- Use fresh lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest make a huge difference in the flavor of these bars.
- Don't overbake: Overbaking will result in dry, crumbly bars. A slightly jiggly center is perfect.
- Let them cool completely: Patience is key here! Letting the bars cool completely before cutting will prevent them from crumbling.
- Store properly: Store leftover lemon bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Blueberry Lemon Bars: Add ½ cup fresh or frozen blueberries to the lemon filling for a delightful twist.
- Raspberry Lemon Bars: Similar to the blueberry variation, substitute raspberries for a tart and sweet combination.
- Coconut Lemon Bars: Add ½ cup shredded coconut to the crust for extra texture and flavor.
Nutritional Information (per bar, approximate):
This will vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used. Nutritional information is best calculated using a nutrition calculator app or website with your exact ingredients. Generally, expect a moderate amount of calories, fat, and sugar. This recipe offers a healthier alternative to traditional lemon bars due to the use of almond flour and a focus on fresh ingredients. These bars are not low-calorie, but offer a balance of flavors and textures suitable for an occasional treat as part of a healthy diet. Consider it a delicious addition to your quick dinner ideas or a satisfying healthy meal option for dessert.
This gluten-free lemon bar recipe is a perfect example of delicious dishes that are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!