Super Easy Lemon Bars

Update : March 7, 2026

Why Make This Recipe

Super Easy Lemon Bars are a delightful treat that brings a burst of sunshine to your day. They are refreshing, tangy, and sweet, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re having friends over, enjoying a family gathering, or simply treating yourself, these lemon bars are sure to add a cheerful touch. Plus, they are simple to make, with just a few easy steps and common ingredients.

How to Make Super Easy Lemon Bars

Ingredients

1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (room temperature)
1 cup All-Purpose Flour
1/4 cup Powdered Sugar
1/2 cup Lemon Juice (2-3 lemons)
1 tbsp Lemon Zest (finely grated)
3 Large Eggs (room temperature)
1 1/2 cups Granulated Sugar
1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour (sifted)
Powdered Sugar (for dusting)

Directions

Make the Shortbread Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix the room temperature butter, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, and 1/4 cup of powdered sugar. Combine until the mixture is crumbly. Press this mixture into the bottom of a greased 8×8-inch baking dish. Bake for about 18 minutes or until lightly golden.
Prepare the Lemon Curd Filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and sifted flour. Make sure everything is well mixed, and then pour the lemon mixture over the baked crust.
Bake Again: Place the dish back in the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the filling is set but still has a slight jiggle in the center.
Cool and Dust: Once baked, take the lemon bars out of the oven and let them cool to room temperature. Dust the top with powdered sugar before cutting them into squares.

How to Serve Super Easy Lemon Bars

Serve the lemon bars chilled or at room temperature for a refreshing dessert. You can add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an extra treat. They also make a lovely addition to a summer picnic or a light afternoon tea.

How to Store Super Easy Lemon Bars

To store your lemon bars, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can keep them in the fridge for about a week. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

Tips to Make Super Easy Lemon Bars

Use fresh lemons for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice won’t give you the same bright taste.
Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.
Sift the flour for a lighter texture in the lemon curd.
Let the bars cool completely before cutting to avoid messy slices.

Variation

You can add a twist to your lemon bars by incorporating other citrus fruits like limes or oranges. Just replace some of the lemon juice with lime or orange juice for a unique flavor profile. Another option is to include some chopped fresh herbs, like mint or basil, for a refreshing herby taste.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can experiment with gluten-free flour, but the texture may differ slightly.

How can I make these lemon bars sweeter?
You can add more granulated sugar to the filling, but keep in mind that the sweetness of the bars should balance with the tartness of the lemon.

Can I freeze lemon bars?
Yes, lemon bars freeze well! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store in an airtight container in the freezer. They can last for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.