why make this recipe
Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars are a delightful treat that combines the bright flavor of lemon with a soft, chewy cookie base. They are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a sunny picnic, a birthday party, or simply a sweet snack at home. These bars are not only easy to make but also a hit with friends and family. If you love lemony desserts, this recipe is a must-try!
how to make Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for frosting)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (for frosting)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until everything is just combined.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan and smooth out the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the bars cool completely before adding the frosting.
- For the frosting, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth, then spread it over the cooled bars before serving.
how to serve Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars
Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars can be served at room temperature. They are perfect for cutting into squares and can be enjoyed as a snack or dessert. You can also garnish them with additional lemon zest or fresh berries for a pop of color and flavor.
how to store Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars
To store Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just make sure to bring them back to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.
tips to make Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars
- Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- Don’t overmix the batter once you add the dry ingredients to keep the bars soft.
- For a stronger lemon flavor, add more lemon zest or increase the lemon juice in the frosting.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
variation
You can add a handful of poppy seeds to the batter for a crunchy texture or try using different citrus fruits like orange or lime for a twist on the original recipe.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, you can use salted butter. Just reduce the amount of salt in the recipe slightly.How can I make these bars more lemony?
You can increase the amount of lemon zest and lemon juice in both the batter and the frosting.Can I freeze Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars?
Yes! You can freeze them for up to three months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars
Ingredients
For the Cookie Bars
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature.
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 0.5 cup powdered sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest For a stronger lemon flavor, add more lemon zest.
- 0.25 cup lemon juice Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Frosting
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until everything is just combined.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan and smooth out the top.
Baking
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the bars cool completely before adding the frosting.
Frosting
- Whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth.
- Spread the frosting over the cooled bars before serving.