These Lemon Bar Cookies deliver the refreshing zing of lemons in an easy-to-eat cookie form. With a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread base and a luscious lemon topping, they’re ideal for springtime gatherings, afternoon tea, or a sweet midday treat. This recipe is simple yet packed with bold flavor, making it a favorite for citrus lovers everywhere!

Ingredients

For the crust

• 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the lemon layer

• 1 ½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar
• ¼ cup (30 g) all-purpose flour
• 4 large eggs
• ⅔ cup (160 ml) fresh lemon juice (about 4-5 lemons)
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Directions

Prepare the crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
3. Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, ensuring it reaches the edges and corners.
4. Bake the crust for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.

Make the lemon layer

5. In a medium bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and flour. Add the eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest, whisking until smooth.
6. Pour the lemon mixture over the slightly cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
7. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the lemon layer is set and lightly golden around the edges.

Cool and serve

8. Allow the bars to cool completely before lifting them out of the pan using the parchment overhang.
9. Dust the top generously with powdered sugar, slice into squares or bars, and serve.

Notes

• Zest tips: Make sure to zest only the yellow part of the lemon skin, as the white pith can be bitter.
• Make it extra lemony: If you love an intense lemon flavor, increase the lemon zest to 1 ½ tablespoons.
• Storage: These cookies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing option: You can freeze the bars in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just thaw and dust with fresh powdered sugar before serving.

Conclusion

These Lemon Bar Cookies are a tangy, buttery, and perfectly balanced dessert that’s sure to impress. With their bright citrus flavor and soft shortbread crust, they’re the perfect sweet treat for any occasion. Try this recipe and watch them disappear from the dessert table in no time!