why make this recipe
Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars are a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. They are sweet and tangy, with a soft and chewy texture that makes them hard to resist. These bars bring a burst of citrus flavor in every bite, making them ideal for summer gatherings, parties, or just a fun dessert at home. Plus, they are easy to make and don’t require any special equipment, making them a go-to recipe for both beginner and experienced bakers.
how to make Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars
Making Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars is a simple and enjoyable process. With just a few basic ingredients and steps, you can create delicious treats that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
For the frosting:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Lemon zest to taste
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg, lemon juice, and lemon zest until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda. Gradually mix it into the wet ingredients until combined.
- Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges start to turn golden.
- Allow the cookie bars to cool completely in the pan.
- For the frosting, beat together the powdered sugar, softened butter, and lemon juice until smooth. Spread this delicious frosting over the cooled bars and garnish with additional lemon zest if desired.
how to serve Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars
Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars are great served at room temperature. You can cut them into squares or rectangles for easy serving. They make a lovely addition to any dessert table, potluck, or picnic. If desired, top each bar with extra lemon zest for an added touch of flavor and color.
how to store Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars
To keep your Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks. For longer storage, consider freezing the bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag, where they can last for up to three months.
tips to make Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars
- Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Don’t skip the lemon zest; it adds a lot of flavor.
- Keep an eye on the baking time to avoid overbaking. The bars should look lightly golden at the edges.
- For extra tanginess, you can add a little more lemon juice to the frosting.
variation
You can customize these bars by adding chocolate chips for a delicious contrast, or using lime instead of lemon for a different citrus flavor.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but you may want to reduce the added salt in the recipe.
What if I don’t have lemon juice?
If you don’t have lemon juice, you can substitute it with another citrus juice like lime or orange, though the flavor will be different.
Can I make these bars in advance?
Absolutely! You can bake the bars a day or two in advance. Just store them in an airtight container and frost them just before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars
Ingredients
Cookie Bars
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Ensure butter is at room temperature.
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice For extra tanginess, adjust to taste.
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest Don't skip; adds flavor.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt Reduce if using salted butter.
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
Frosting
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Lemon zest to taste For garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg, lemon juice, and lemon zest until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda. Gradually mix it into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.
Baking
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges start to turn golden.
- Allow the cookie bars to cool completely in the pan.
Frosting
- For the frosting, beat together the powdered sugar, softened butter, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Spread the frosting over the cooled bars and garnish with additional lemon zest if desired.