Why Make This Recipe
Meyer Lemon Bars are a delightful twist on traditional lemon bars, offering a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. The use of Meyer lemons gives these bars a unique taste that is less tart than regular lemons, making them a refreshing treat. Whether for a special occasion or a simple dessert at home, these bars are sure to impress. Plus, they are easy to make and perfect for sharing with family and friends.
How to Make Meyer Lemon Bars
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup fresh Meyer lemon juice
- Zest of 1 Meyer lemon
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Gradually mix in the flour and salt until combined. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- In another bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, eggs, Meyer lemon juice, lemon zest, and baking powder until smooth.
- Pour the lemon mixture over the baked crust and return to the oven.
- Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set.
- Let it cool completely before cutting into squares.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
How to Serve Meyer Lemon Bars
Meyer Lemon Bars are best served chilled or at room temperature. Cut them into small squares and place them on a serving platter. Dusting with powdered sugar just before serving adds a nice touch. They pair wonderfully with tea or a refreshing cocktail. Enjoy these bars as a sweet treat after dinner or as a midday snack.
How to Store Meyer Lemon Bars
To keep your Meyer Lemon Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for about a week. If you want to store them for longer, you can freeze them. Just wrap each square in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
Tips to Make Meyer Lemon Bars
- Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming with the sugar.
- Fresh Meyer lemon juice and zest give the best flavor, so avoid bottled juice.
- Don’t overbake the filling; it should be set but still slightly jiggly when taken out of the oven.
Variation
For a different flavor, you can substitute some of the Meyer lemon juice with another citrus juice, such as lime or orange. Additionally, adding a little bit of lemon extract can enhance the lemon flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular lemons instead of Meyer lemons?
Yes, you can use regular lemons, but the flavor will be more tart. You might want to adjust the sugar to balance the acidity.
2. Can these bars be made vegan?
You can substitute eggs with flax eggs or a commercial egg replacer, and use vegan butter instead of regular butter to make them vegan.
3. How can I tell when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the filling is set and doesn’t jiggle too much. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean with just a bit of lemon filling clinging to it.
Meyer Lemon Bars
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9 inch baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Gradually mix in the flour and salt until combined. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- In another bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, eggs, Meyer lemon juice, lemon zest, and baking powder until smooth.
- Pour the lemon mixture over the baked crust and return to the oven.
- Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set.
- Let it cool completely before cutting into squares.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving.