Summer has left me craving all things light and citrusy, and lemon bars have always been my go-to for an easy baked goods either for friends, family, or a fun gathering. This occasion was my brother's birthday as he loves lemon bars, and I proudly whipped out this recipe that I have been following for years! Paula Deen, an American Chef published this recipe in the Food Network in 2013 and this recipe seems to never fail or get old for me. It's simple and so easy, that you can even have little helping hands assist along the way! Although this recipe isn't paleo or gluten-free, like I normally prefer, you can easily switch out normal flour for almond flour and coconut flour, and use ghee and maple syrup as alternatives. Sometimes I will even Google swapping ratios to get the right consistency for any recipe I'm using.
Unlike other lemon bars, these are the perfect amount of zest and sweetness, without one or the either overpowering the oveerall flavor. One thing I did add to the recipe was zesting a whole lemon, as it give it that extra kick and still gives off the hint of lemon in a very refreshing way. I've been diving into the world of edible flowers lately and decided to top off the bars with a few bachelor buttons to add a complimentary pop of color. Bachelor Buttons also contain anti-inflammatory properties that help with bleeding and sore gums as well as providing aid to the digestive system and liver detoxification.
I hope you enjoy these lemon bars as much as our family does and I wish you a warm and happy home+life!
Ingredients
For the crust:
2 sticks unsalted butter, cut into pieces and at room temperature {plus more for the dish}
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup confectioner's sugar, plus more for dusting
Pinch of salt
For the filling:
4 large eggs
2 cups granulated sugar
6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
6 tablespoons fresh lemon juice {from about 2 lemons}
Zest from 1 whole lemon
Optional: Top off with fresh bachelor button for a pop of color and an extra healthy bite!
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350F. Line a 9x13-inch baking dish with aluminum foil and butter the foil.
Make the crust: whisk the flour, confectioners' sugar and salt in a large bowl. Cut in the butter with your fingers to make a crumbly dough; press into the prepared baking dish. Bake 20 minutes, then transfer to a rack and let cool slightly.
Meanwhile, make the filling: mix the eggs, sugar and flour in a bowl with a fork. Mix in the lemon juice. Pour the filling over the crust and bake 25 more minutes; transfer to a rack and let cool completely. Sprinkle with confectioners' sugar.
Lift out of the pan and cut into pieces
Add optional flowers and enjoy!