Penulis Lemon bars are a sweet and tangy dessert made with a buttery shortbread crust topped with a zesty lemon filling. They typically consist of a mixture of lemon juice, sugar, eggs, and flour, baked until set, and often dusted with powdered sugar before serving.
They're popular for their refreshing flavor and are often enjoyed as a spring or summer treat. Would you like a recipe or more details?
To make lemon bars, you typically follow these steps:
Ingredients:
For the crust
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the filling
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven
- to 350°F (175°C).
2. Make the crust
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until combined.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
3. Prepare the filling
- In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, and flour until smooth.
- Pour the filling over the baked crust.
4. Bake again
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly firm to the touch.
5. Cool and serve
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
- Once cool, dust with powdered sugar, cut into squares, and serve.
These lemon bars are a delightful combination of sweet and tart flavors, making them a favorite for many! Enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Lemon Bars:
1. Fresh Lemons
Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice can taste less vibrant.
2. Avoid Overbaking
Keep an eye on the filling; it should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Overbaking can result in a dry texture.
3. Chill Before Cutting
For cleaner cuts, refrigerate the bars for a couple of hours before slicing. This helps the filling firm up.
4. Customization
You can experiment by adding flavors like vanilla or a hint of lavender for a unique twist.
5. Serving Suggestions
Lemon bars pair well with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an added treat.
Storage
Store lemon bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage; just make sure to wrap them well.
If you have any specific questions or need more information, feel free to ask!
Variations on Lemon Bars:
1. Lime Bars
Substitute lime juice and zest for a tropical twist.
2. Berry Lemon Bars
Add a layer of fresh berries (like raspberries or blueberries) on top of the crust before pouring in the lemon filling for added flavor and color.
3. Meringue Topping
Top with a light meringue for a lemon meringue bar variation. Bake until the meringue is lightly browned.
4. Ginger Lemon Bars
Incorporate ground ginger into the crust or filling for a warm, spicy flavor.
5. Gluten-Free Option
Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.
Serving Ideas:
- Garnish
Consider garnishing with thin lemon slices or fresh mint for a pop of color and flavor.
- Pairing
Serve alongside iced tea or lemonade to complement the citrusy flavors.
Lemon Bar Facts:
- Origin
Lemon bars are believed to have originated in the early 20th century in the United States.
- Popularity
They are often featured at bake sales, picnics, and family gatherings due to their ease of preparation and delightfu
l taste.
If you’d like more ideas, variations, or any other specific information, just let me know!
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