When I think of summer afternoons spent in my grandmother’s kitchen, the first thing that comes to mind is her famous Lemon Cream Pie Bars. The tangy sweetness of the lemon filling paired with a buttery crust was a staple in our family gatherings. Each bite was a burst of sunshine, and I can still hear her laughter as we enjoyed these delightful treats together. Today, I want to share this cherished recipe with you, so you can create your own sweet memories.
What Makes This Recipe Special
- Melting Texture: These bars have a creamy filling that practically melts in your mouth, making them irresistible.
- Bright Flavor: The fresh lemon juice and zest provide a vibrant flavor that brightens any occasion.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these up in no time.
- Perfect for Sharing: These bars are great for potlucks, picnics, or just a sweet treat at home.
Gather Your Ingredients
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 12
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Let’s Get Cooking
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, softened butter, powdered sugar, and salt. Mix until crumbly.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a crust. Bake for 15 minutes.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and baking powder until smooth.
- Pour the lemon mixture over the baked crust and return to the oven for an additional 15 minutes.
- Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.
Helpful Hints & Variations
If you want to add a twist to these bars, consider incorporating fresh berries into the lemon filling. Blueberries or raspberries can complement the tartness of the lemon beautifully. Additionally, for a creamier texture, you can fold in a dollop of whipped cream into the lemon mixture before pouring it over the crust.
Perfect Pairings
These Lemon Cream Pie Bars pair wonderfully with a refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade. For a more indulgent treat, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also make a delightful addition to a summer picnic spread, alongside fresh fruit and light sandwiches.
Kitchen Q&A
Q: Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
A: While fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch. Just be aware that the taste may not be as vibrant.
Why I Love This Recipe
These Lemon Cream Pie Bars are more than just a dessert; they are a connection to my childhood and a reminder of the love that goes into cooking. Each time I make them, I feel my grandmother’s spirit in the kitchen, guiding me through the process. I hope you find joy in making these bars and that they bring a little sunshine into your life.
Your Turn
I invite you to try this recipe and make it your own! Feel free to experiment with flavors and share your experiences. I would love to hear how your Lemon Cream Pie Bars turn out!
Lemon Cream Pie Bars That Practically Melt in Your Mouth
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, softened butter, powdered sugar, and salt. Mix until crumbly.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a crust. Bake for 15 minutes.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and baking powder until smooth.
- Pour the lemon mixture over the baked crust and return to the oven for an additional 15 minutes.
- Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.
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