**Classic Lemon Bars Recipe**
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### **Overview:**
These **Classic Lemon Bars** are the perfect balance of sweet and tart, featuring a buttery, crisp shortbread crust and a luscious lemon filling. Finished with a delicate dusting of powdered sugar, they’re ideal for any occasion, from tea parties to casual desserts.
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### **Prep Time:** 15 minutes
### **Cook Time:** 40-45 minutes
### **Cooling Time:** 2 hours
### **Total Time:** ~3 hours
### **Servings:** 16 bars
### **Ingredients:**
#### **For the Shortbread Crust:**
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
#### **For the Lemon Filling:**
– 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 4 large eggs
– 3/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4 lemons)
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
#### **For Topping:**
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
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### **Instructions:**
#### **Step 1: Make the Shortbread Crust**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the flour and salt, and mix until a crumbly dough forms.
4. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden. Set aside to cool slightly while preparing the filling.
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#### **Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Filling**
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and flour.
2. Add the eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest, and whisk until smooth and fully combined.
#### **Step 3: Assemble and Bake**
1. Pour the lemon filling over the warm crust, spreading it evenly.
2. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly firm to the touch.
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#### **Step 4: Cool and Finish**
1. Allow the lemon bars to cool completely in the pan at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to fully set.
2. Once chilled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan.
3. Dust with powdered sugar before slicing into 16 squares.
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### **Tips for Success:**
– **Fresh Lemons:** Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor. Bottled juice lacks the brightness of fresh lemons.
– **Sharp Knife:** Use a sharp knife to cut clean slices, wiping the blade between cuts for neat edges.
– **Storage:** Store lemon bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
### **Serving Suggestions:**
– Serve chilled or at room temperature as a dessert or afternoon treat.
– Pair with tea or coffee for a delightful flavor contrast.
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These **Classic Lemon Bars** are timeless, bringing together a buttery crust and zesty filling in perfect harmony. They’re easy to make yet deliver a sophisticated taste that’s loved by all!