why make this recipe
Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars are a delightful treat that combines the zesty brightness of lemon with the sweet, buttery goodness of cookie bars. They are perfect for gatherings, or simply to enjoy at home with family. The balance of sweet and tart makes these bars a refreshing dessert that can lift anyone’s spirits. Plus, they are easy to make and require simple ingredients, making them a great option for both novice and experienced bakers.
how to make Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars
Ingredients :
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for frosting)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (for frosting)
- Zest of 1 lemon (for frosting)
Directions :
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Spread the dough evenly in the prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow the bars to cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
- Spread the frosting over the cooled bars, cut into squares, and serve.
how to serve Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars
Serve these lemon cookie bars chilled or at room temperature. They are great on their own, but you can also add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on the side for an extra delicious touch. Garnish with additional lemon zest for a cheerful presentation!
how to store Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars
To store these cookie bars, place them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Make sure to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
tips to make Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars
- Ensure your butter is softened at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Don’t overmix the dough; mix until just combined for the best texture.
- Adjust the amount of lemon juice based on your taste preference; add more for extra tartness.
- Make sure the bars are fully cooled before adding the frosting to prevent it from melting.
variation
For a fun twist, you can add poppy seeds to the batter for a lemon-poppy seed flavor. Alternatively, try a cream cheese frosting instead of a lemon frosting for a different taste experience.
FAQs
1. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use bottled lemon juice, but fresh lemon juice and zest give the best flavor.
2. Can these bars be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze them! Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to three months.
3. How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
4. Can I make these without frosting?
Absolutely! The bars are delicious on their own, but the frosting adds a nice sweetness that complements the lemon flavor.
Enjoy making and sharing these delightful Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars!
Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars
Ingredients
For the cookie bars
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 lemon Zest of 1 lemon
For the frosting
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 lemon Zest of 1 lemon
Instructions
Baking the Bars
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Spread the dough evenly in the prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow the bars to cool completely.
Making the Frosting
- For the frosting, beat together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
- Spread the frosting over the cooled bars, cut into squares, and serve.