Ah, summer is here! And you know what that means… warm weather, long days, and an endless stream of outdoor gatherings and BBQs. What better way to brighten up your picnic basket or potluck dish than with a batch of refreshing, zesty lemon bars? In this article, we’re counting down our top 20 favorite lemon bar recipes that are sure to be the star of any summer gathering.
From classic shortbread crusts to innovative flavor combinations like matcha and coconut, there’s something for everyone in this list. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for a sweet treat to brighten up your day, these lemon bars are sure to hit the spot. So grab a glass of iced tea (or two), get ready to get creative in the kitchen, and let’s dive into our top picks!
Classic Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust
Brighten up your day with these tangy and sweet lemon bars, featuring a buttery shortbread crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Press the crust mixture into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 20-22 minutes, or until lightly browned.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Pour the lemon mixture over the baked crust.
5. Return to oven and bake for an additional 20-22 minutes, or until the filling is set.
Cooking Time: 40-44 minutes
Tangy Vegan Lemon Bars
These refreshing bars are perfect for warm weather or anytime a bright citrus flavor is needed. With a shortbread crust and a tangy lemon filling, they’re sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup vegan butter (softened), plus more for greasing
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons lemon zest
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish with vegan butter.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, and sugar. Add softened vegan butter and mix until a crumbly dough forms. Press into prepared baking dish.
3. Bake crust for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together lemon juice, zest, and salt. Pour over baked crust.
5. Return to oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until filling is set.
6. Allow bars to cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Gluten-Free Lemon Bars with Almond Flour
Brighten up your day with these tangy and sweet gluten-free lemon bars made with almond flour. Perfect for a refreshing dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, granulated sugar, and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add melted butter, eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix until well combined.
4. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
6. Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Lavender Bars with a Floral Twist
Elevate your dessert game with these sweet and tangy bars that combine the brightness of lemon, the subtlety of lavender, and the charm of edible flowers. Perfect for springtime gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried lavender buds
– 1/4 cup edible violas or pansies for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Press the dough into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until lightly golden.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and lavender buds. Pour over the baked crust.
5. Return to oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes or until filling is set.
6. Allow bars to cool completely before cutting into squares and garnishing with edible flowers.
Cooking Time: 32-35 minutes
Cheesecake Swirl Lemon Bars
Elevate your lemon bar game with the addition of a creamy cheesecake swirl. This delightful dessert combines a shortbread crust, a zesty lemon filling, and a rich cheesecake topping for an unbeatable flavor combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add butter and mix until a crumbly dough forms. Press into prepared baking dish.
3. Bake crust for 20 minutes. Meanwhile, whisk together eggs, lemon juice, and zest in a large bowl.
4. Pour lemon mixture over baked crust and smooth. Dollop with cheesecake mixture (beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth) in small spoonfuls.
5. Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes or until filling is set and cheesecake swirl is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Coconut Lemon Bars with Toasted Coconut Topping
Brighten up your dessert game with these creamy and tangy coconut lemon bars, topped with a crunchy toasted coconut crust. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or anytime you need a taste of sunshine.
Ingredients:
For the bars:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
For the topping:
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and coconut.
3. Add softened butter, eggs, lemon zest, and juice; mix until smooth.
4. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden.
5. While bars are cooling, toast coconut topping by mixing sugar and melted butter in a small bowl. Add shredded coconut and stir to combine.
6. Spread toasted coconut topping over cooled bars and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Raspberry Lemon Bars with Fresh Berries
Brighten up your day with these sweet and tangy bars, bursting with the flavors of fresh raspberries and lemon zest.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– Fresh berries for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter; mix until a crumbly mixture forms.
3. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
4. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
5. Allow the crust to cool completely.
6. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Pour over cooled crust.
7. Top with fresh raspberries.
8. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Key Lime and Lemon Bars with a Citrus Blend
A refreshing twist on the classic bar recipe, these Key Lime and Lemon Bars combine the tanginess of citrus with a buttery shortbread crust. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed Key lime juice
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar. Add softened butter; mix until a crumbly dough forms.
3. Press dough into prepared baking dish.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, Key lime juice, lemon juice, orange zest, and salt.
5. Pour citrus mixture over crust.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until filling is set and edges are lightly golden.
7. Cool completely in pan before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Blueberry Bars with a Crumbly Topping
Lemon Blueberry Bars with a Crumbly Topping: A Sweet and Tangy Treat
These bright and cheerful bars combine the sweetness of blueberries with the tartness of lemon, topped with a crumbly streusel topping. Perfect for springtime or any occasion that calls for a burst of citrus flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– Crumbly Topping: 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and lemon zest. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly mixture forms.
3. Press half the mixture into prepared baking dish. Top with blueberries.
4. Spread remaining crust mixture over blueberries.
5. Prepare Crumbly Topping by combining flour, sugar, and cold butter in a bowl. Use fingers or a pastry blender to work butter into small pieces until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
6. Sprinkle topping evenly over crust layer.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown.
Matcha Lemon Bars with a Green Tea Twist
These refreshing bars combine the brightness of lemon with the subtle bitterness of matcha, creating a unique and delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon matcha powder ( ceremonial or premium grade)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add melted butter and stir until mixture forms a crumbly dough.
3. Press dough into prepared baking dish.
4. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
5. While crust is baking, prepare filling: Whisk together granulated sugar, eggs, matcha powder, and lemon juice in a large bowl.
6. Remove crust from oven and pour filling over the warm crust.
7. Sprinkle powdered sugar on top of filling.
8. Return to oven for an additional 10-12 minutes or until filling is set.
9. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-35 minutes
Lemon Meringue Bars with Toasted Meringue
These bite-sized bars combine the brightness of lemon curd with the crunch of toasted meringue, making them perfect for a sweet and tangy snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 1 cup meringue (see note)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, lemon juice, and zest. Mix until smooth.
3. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden.
5. Top with meringue (toasted according to package instructions).
6. Return to oven for an additional 5-7 minutes or until meringue is toasted.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Poppy Seed Bars with a Nutty Crunch
Brighten up your day with these tangy and sweet bars that combine the flavors of lemon, poppy seeds, and toasted nuts. A perfect treat for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (or your preferred nut)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar. Add softened butter; mix until a crumbly mixture forms.
3. Press half of the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
4. Whisk eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice in a separate bowl. Pour over the crust.
5. Sprinkle poppy seeds and chopped nuts evenly on top.
6. Top with the remaining crust mixture.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
White Chocolate Lemon Bars for a Sweet Twist
Brighten up your day with the perfect blend of tangy and sweet, these White Chocolate Lemon Bars are a refreshing twist on traditional lemon bars.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, and confectioners’ sugar. Add melted butter and mix until combined.
3. Press mixture into prepared baking dish. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until lightly golden.
4. While crust is baking, whisk together eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice in a large bowl.
5. Pour lemon mixture over baked crust and smooth top.
6. Melt white chocolate chips in microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
7. Drizzle melted white chocolate over lemon filling and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-27 minutes
Lemon Ginger Bars with a Spicy Kick
These tangy and sweet bars are infused with the brightness of lemon, the warmth of ginger, and a surprising kick from spicy peppers. Perfect for those who like a little heat in their desserts.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1-2 teaspoons sriracha sauce (depending on desired level of heat)
– 1 cup chopped fresh mint leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, granulated sugar, and confectioners’ sugar in a medium bowl.
3. Add melted butter, eggs, ginger, lemon juice, salt, and sriracha sauce. Mix until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Basil Bars with a Herbal Note
Brighten up your day with these refreshing Lemon Basil Bars, infused with the subtle nuances of lemon verbena and lemon balm. These sweet and tangy treats are perfect for a springtime gathering or as a pick-me-up any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp grated lemon zest
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 1 tsp dried lemon verbena or lemon balm
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly mixture forms.
4. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Let cool completely before spreading with lemon-basil filling (made by whisking together lemon juice, zest, eggs, basil leaves, and dried herb).
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Pistachio Bars with a Nutty Crust
Brighten up your day with these tangy and nutty bars, featuring a crunchy pistachio crust and a lemon-infused filling.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup lemon curd (homemade or store-bought)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, and pistachios. Add melted butter, stirring until mixture forms a crumbly crust.
3. Press crust into prepared baking dish.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, honey, eggs, and vanilla extract. Pour over crust.
5. Drizzle lemon curd over filling, spreading evenly.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are golden brown.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Coconut Macaroon Bars
These chewy bars combine the sweetness of coconut with the tanginess of lemon, perfect for a sunny day or as a sweet treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until crumbs form.
4. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Meanwhile, whisk together eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
7. Pour egg mixture over baked crust and sprinkle with coconut.
8. Return to oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until coconut is lightly toasted.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Lemon Rosemary Bars with a Savory Touch
Lemon Rosemary Bars with a Savory Touch: A refreshing twist on traditional bars, this recipe combines the brightness of lemon with the earthiness of rosemary and a hint of savory goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 teaspoons dried rosemary leaves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly mixture forms.
4. Stir in lemon juice, rosemary leaves, salt, and parsley.
5. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Thyme Bars with a Fragrant Finish
Brighten up your day with these citrusy and herbaceous bars, infused with the warmth of thyme and finished with a hint of fragrance.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly.
3. Press dough into prepared baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, lemon juice, thyme, and salt. Pour mixture over crust.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Fragrant Finish:
After cooling, drizzle with a fragrant honey syrup (equal parts honey and water) to add an extra layer of warmth and depth to these lemon thyme bars.
Lemon Curd Bars with a Silky Smooth Filling
Brighten up your dessert game with these tangy and sweet lemon curd bars, featuring a silky smooth filling that’s sure to please. Perfect for springtime gatherings or anytime you need a burst of citrus sunshine.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly mixture forms.
3. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar, egg yolks, lemon juice, and zest.
6. Pour the lemon curd mixture over the baked crust and smooth out.
7. Return to oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until filling is set.
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to brighten up your summer with these 20 zesty lemon bar recipes! From classic and tangy vegan options to gluten-free, floral, and citrus-infused twists, there’s something for every taste bud. Try adding a cheesecake swirl, toasted coconut topping, or fresh berries to give your lemon bars an extra boost of flavor. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet, savory, or nutty, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
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