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Classic Lemon Bars

Kid tested-Kid approved version of Lemon Bars. Tender, buttery crust with a sweet, citrusy lemon curd topping. A classic from the SF Chronicle Food section.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Course: bar cookies
Cuisine: American
Keyword: bar cookies, Dessert, lemon, Lemon Bars
Servings: 16 squares

Ingredients

Shortbread crust

    1 cup flour

      1/4 cup powdered sugar

        1/2 cup butter (1 stick)

          Filling:

            1 cup sugar

              2 T flour

                1/2 teaspoon baking powder

                  2 T lemon juice

                    2 teaspoon lemon zest, finely grated

                      2 large eggs

                        Instructions

                        Adjust the rack in the lower third of oven. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease an 8 or 9 inch square pan.

                          To make crust: Briefly blend the flour and sugar in a medium bowl to combine. Cut in butter until the mixture resembles oatmeal. Using your fingertips, press the mixture into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 15 minutes or until pale golden.

                            To make filling: Whisk flour, sugar and baking powder together. Blend eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a medium bowl. Add the dry ingredients and blend until thoroughly combined. Pour filling over partially baked crust and bake 25 minutes. Cool, sprinkle powdered sugar over top and cut into bars.

                              Options: Can add additional 1/2 T lemon juice or substitute 1/3 of juice with orange or lime juice and zest. Cut down on baking time ( 25 minutes to 15-20 minutes depending on pan size.)