The sweet and tangy taste of lemons – there’s nothing quite like it. Whether you’re a citrus lover or just looking for a refreshing dessert, lemon bars are the perfect treat to brighten up your day. And we’ve got 20 irresistible recipes to share with you! From classic shortbread crusts to unique flavor combinations, our lemon bar collection has something for everyone.
In this article, we’ll be diving into the world of zesty lemon bars, featuring a range of creative twists and traditional favorites. Whether you’re in the mood for something bright and citrusy or rich and decadent, these 20 recipes will satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more. So grab a glass of cold milk, get cozy, and let’s dive into the world of lemons!
Classic Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust
A sweet and tangy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, these classic lemon bars feature a crumbly shortbread crust and a bright, citrusy filling.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the filling:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons 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. Prepare the crust: Whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened 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. Prepare the filling: Whisk together egg yolks, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and zest. Pour over baked crust.
5. Bake bars for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until filling is set and edges are lightly browned.
6. Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Lemon Blueberry Bars with Almond Topping
Brighten up your day with these tangy and sweet Lemon Blueberry Bars, topped with a crunchy almond crust. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
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 melted butter. Add eggs, lemon juice, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
3. Fold in blueberries.
4. Pour batter into prepared baking dish.
5. Sprinkle almond slices evenly over the top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Coconut Lemon Bars with Toasted Coconut Flakes
Coconut lemon bars with toasted coconut flakes add a delightful tropical twist to the classic bar recipe. The combination of sweet and tangy flavors, along with the crunch from the toasted coconut, makes for a perfect treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Toasted coconut flakes for garnish
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, granulated sugar, and unsweetened shredded coconut.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly mixture forms. Press into prepared baking dish.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
5. While crust is baking, prepare lemon filling by whisking together confectioners’ sugar, eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
6. Pour lemon filling over baked crust and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until filling is set.
7. Allow bars to cool completely before cutting into squares and garnishing with toasted coconut flakes.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Raspberry Swirl Lemon Bars
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional lemon bars, these Raspberry Swirl Lemon Bars combine the brightness of lemon with the sweetness of raspberries. Perfect for springtime or any time you want a burst of citrusy flavor.
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
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1 tablespoon raspberry jam
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, eggs, and lemon juice; stir until combined.
3. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
4. Arrange fresh raspberries on top of the batter in a single layer.
5. Dollop raspberry jam over the raspberries.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and center is set.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Lavender Bars with Honey Glaze
Brighten up your day with these sweet and tangy bars, infused with the subtle charm of lavender and a hint of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon dried lavender buds
– Honey glaze: 1/4 cup honey, 1 tablespoon heavy cream
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, confectioners’ sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly dough forms.
4. Press half the dough into the prepared baking dish.
5. Whisk together eggs, lemon juice, and lavender buds. Pour over the crust.
6. Top with remaining dough and smooth out.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Let cool completely before drizzling with honey glaze (mix honey and heavy cream).
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Gluten-Free Lemon Bars with Almond Flour
These tangy and sweet bars are made with almond flour, a perfect substitute for traditional wheat-based flours. The result is a deliciously gluten-free treat that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
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 almond flour, granulated sugar, and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. While the crust is baking, prepare the filling by whisking together eggs, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and salt.
7. Pour the filling over the warm crust and bake for an additional 15-18 minutes or until the filling is set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Vegan Lemon Bars with Cashew Cream
Vegan Lemon Bars with Cashew Cream: Brighten up your day with these tangy and sweet treats! Made with a shortbread crust, a creamy lemon filling, and topped with a layer of silky cashew cream, these bars are the perfect vegan dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup coconut oil
– 1/2 cup lemon juice (fresh or bottled)
– 1/2 cup cashews
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the crust: Whisk together flour, oats, and maple syrup in a bowl. Add coconut oil and stir until combined. Press into prepared baking dish.
3. Bake the crust for 20-22 minutes, or until lightly golden.
4. Make the filling: Whisk together lemon juice, cashews, apple cider vinegar, and salt in a blender until smooth.
5. Pour the filling over the baked crust and bake for an additional 20-22 minutes, or until set.
6. Top with cashew cream (soaked cashews blended with water) and refrigerate until chilled.
Cooking Time: 42-44 minutes
Lemon Meringue Bars with Torched Topping
Lemon Meringue Bars with Torched Topping Recipe Summary:
Brighten up your day with these tangy and sweet lemon bars topped with a toasted meringue topping.
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 egg yolks
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 1/4 cup meringue topping (see below)
Meringue Topping:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 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, granulated sugar, and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter; beat until a dough forms.
3. Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish.
4. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until lightly golden.
5. While the crust is baking, prepare the meringue topping: In a clean bowl, whisk together egg whites and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
6. Remove the baked crust from the oven; spread with lemon filling (made by mixing lemon juice, zest, and egg yolks). Top with meringue topping, spreading evenly to cover the filling.
7. Torched topping: Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the meringue topping or broil for 1-2 minutes.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Cheesecake Bars with Graham Cracker Crust
These refreshing bars combine the sweetness of cheesecake with the brightness of lemon, all on a crunchy graham cracker base. Perfect for springtime or any time you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until combined. Press into prepared pan.
3. In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, eggs, lemon zest, and juice; mix until well combined.
4. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust and smooth top.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
6. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours. Cut into bars and serve.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Poppy Seed Bars with Citrus Glaze
These bars are a perfect blend of citrusy goodness, crunchy texture, and sweet indulgence. With a shortbread crust, a lemon-infused filling, and a drizzle of citrus glaze, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
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
– 1/4 cup poppy seeds
– Citrus Glaze (see below)
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, granulated sugar, and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter; mix until crumbly.
3. Press mixture into prepared baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
4. While crust is baking, prepare filling: Whisk together eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, and poppy seeds.
5. Pour filling over warm crust; bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until set.
6. Allow bars to cool completely before drizzling with Citrus Glaze (see below).
Citrus Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon orange juice
Whisk together until smooth; drizzle over cooled bars.
Lemon Curd Bars with Pistachio Crust
Brighten up your dessert game with these tangy and sweet lemon curd bars, nestled on a crunchy pistachio crust. A perfect combination of citrusy freshness and nutty crunch, these bars are sure to delight!
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 cup pistachios
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the lemon curd:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together pistachios, sugar, flour, and salt. Add melted butter and stir until combined.
3. Press crust mixture into a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. Bake crust for 15 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, whisk together egg yolks, lemon juice, and sugar. Add softened butter and whisk until smooth.
6. Pour lemon curd over baked crust and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until filling is set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Basil Bars with Herbal Infusion
Brighten up your afternoon with these refreshing lemon basil bars infused with the subtle flavors of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 cup dried herbs (such as chamomile or lavender)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
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, sugar, and salt. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Press the dough into the prepared baking dish.
4. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until lightly golden.
5. While the crust is baking, prepare the filling: whisk eggs, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and chopped basil in a large bowl.
6. Remove the crust from the oven and pour the filling over it.
7. Sprinkle dried herbs evenly over the filling.
8. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15-18 minutes or until the filling is set.
9. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Ginger Bars with Spiced Crust
These tangy bars combine the zesty flavors of lemon and ginger with a warm, aromatic crust, perfect for a sweet treat or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup ground almonds
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– 2 large eggs
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, sugar, almonds, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom.
3. Add softened butter and mix until the crust mixture forms.
4. Press the crust into the prepared baking dish.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together lemon juice, chopped ginger, and eggs.
6. Pour the lemon-ginger mixture over the crust.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the filling is set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
White Chocolate Lemon Bars with Drizzle
Brighten up your day with these tangy and sweet White Chocolate Lemon Bars, topped with a drizzly white chocolate glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 1/4 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, confectioners’ sugar, and butter until crumbly.
3. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
4. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
5. While crust is baking, prepare filling by whisking together sugar, eggs, lemon juice, and zest in a large bowl.
6. Pour filling over warm crust and bake for an additional 15-18 minutes or until filling is set.
7. Melt white chocolate chips in the microwave (30-second increments) or double boiler. Drizzle over cooled bars.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Thyme Bars with Floral Notes
Lemon Thyme Bars with Floral Notes: A Bright and Zesty Treat
These bars combine the brightness of lemon zest with the subtlety of thyme, finished with a hint of floral notes from rosewater. Perfect for springtime celebrations or as a unique addition to your dessert repertoire.
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
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon rosewater (optional)
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
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 the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. While the crust is baking, prepare the lemon filling by whisking together lemon juice, honey, thyme, salt, and rosewater (if using).
7. Once the crust is ready, spread the lemon filling evenly over the top.
8. Return to oven for an additional 10-12 minutes or until the filling is set.
Cooking Time: 32-35 minutes
Lemon Macadamia Bars with Nutty Crunch
Brighten up your day with these sweet and tangy bars featuring the perfect balance of citrusy lemon, crunchy macadamias, and a nutty crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup lemon juice (fresh or bottled)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup chopped macadamia nuts
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
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, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and lemon juice; mix until a crumbly dough forms.
4. Press half the dough into prepared baking dish.
5. Sprinkle chopped macadamias over the crust.
6. Top with remaining dough, spreading evenly.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Let cool completely before cutting into bars and dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Chia Seed Bars for a Healthy Twist
Get ready to brighten up your snack time with these refreshing Lemon Chia Seed Bars! Made with wholesome ingredients and a burst of citrus flavor, these bars are perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a post-workout treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup chia seeds
– 1/2 cup coconut sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together oats, chia seeds, and coconut sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Cardamom Bars with Exotic Flair
Elevate your dessert game with these vibrant Lemon Cardamom Bars infused with the warm, aromatic flavors of cardamom and a hint of exotic spices. Perfect for a dinner party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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, confectioners’ sugar, cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly mixture forms.
4. Press dough into prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
6. Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Lemon Olive Oil Bars with Mediterranean Touch
Brighten up your day with these refreshing lemon olive oil bars infused with the warmth of Mediterranean flavors. These tender, chewy treats are perfect for a snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Chopped fresh parsley or thyme (optional)
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 oats, flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, lemon juice, olive oil, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
5. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Rosemary Bars with Savory Sweetness
Lemon Rosemary Bars with Savory Sweetness
These sweet and savory bars combine the brightness of lemon zest, the earthiness of rosemary, and a hint of salt to create a unique flavor experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly chopped rosemary leaves
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
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 sugar, honey, eggs, lemon zest, and rosemary leaves until smooth.
3. Add the softened butter and mix until well combined.
4. Stir in flour and salt until just combined.
5. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to brighten up your baked goods with these 20 zesty lemon bar recipes! From classic combinations like shortbread crust and meringue topping, to unique twists like lavender and thyme, there’s something for every taste. With a variety of gluten-free, vegan, and nutty options, you’ll find the perfect recipe to satisfy your citrus cravings. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat or a savory delight, these irresistibly tangy lemon bars are sure to hit the spot.
