why make this recipe
Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars are a delightful treat that combines the refreshing taste of lemon with the sweetness of sugar cookies. They are easy to make and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a picnic, or just a sweet snack at home. The citrus flavor brightens up the day, making these bars a favorite for lemon lovers. Plus, they are simple enough for beginners to tackle, and who doesn’t love a good dessert that is both delicious and easy to bake?
how to make Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (for frosting)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (for frosting)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Spread the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool completely in the pan.
- For the frosting, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth and spreadable.
- Once the cookie bars are cool, spread the frosting evenly on top.
- Cut into squares and enjoy!
how to serve Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars
These Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars can be served straight from the pan or plated individually for a more formal presentation. They are great on their own or can be paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. They are also perfect for sharing at parties or as a special dessert after dinner.
how to store Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars
To keep your Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for about a week. If you want them to last longer, you can freeze the bars. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They will stay good for up to 3 months in the freezer.
tips to make Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars
- Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
- Don’t overmix the batter once you add the flour; this helps keep the bars soft.
- For a stronger lemon flavor, add a little more lemon zest or juice to the frosting.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
variation
If you’re looking to change things up, consider adding some poppy seeds to the batter for added texture. You can also swap out lemon for lime for a different citrus twist, or incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds for a crunchy element.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Yes, you can use bottled lemon juice, but fresh lemon juice will give a brighter flavor.
Can I make these cookie bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
How can I prevent the bars from sticking to the pan?
Using parchment paper to line the baking pan will help prevent sticking and make for easy removal.
Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened Make sure butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice Fresh lemon juice is recommended for better flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Frosting Ingredients
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice For frosting.
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest For frosting.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Spread the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.
Baking
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool completely in the pan.
Frosting and Serving
- For the frosting, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth and spreadable.
- Once the cookie bars are cool, spread the frosting evenly on top.
- Cut into squares and enjoy!