Introduction
As the air begins to cool and leaves take on a burnished glow, savor the final whispers of summer with our Luscious Lemon Bliss Bars. These delightful treats capture the brightness of the season with their invigorating citrus flavor juxtaposed against a buttery shortbread crust. Perfect for an afternoon snack or a sweet finish to a meal, they bring warmth and cheer to any occasion. These bars may just become your go-to for a sunny pick-me-up no matter the time of year.
Detailed Ingredients
The charm of Luscious Lemon Bliss Bars lies in their simplicity and vibrant taste. To create these luscious squares of happiness, gather the following ingredients:
– For the Base:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– For the Lemon Filling:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon zest
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– For the Topping:
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
– Total Time: 55-60 minutes
– Yield: 16 bars
Detailed Directions and Instructions
1. Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring you leave a generous overhang on the sides. This will aid in easy removal once the bars are baked.
2. Prepare the Shortbread Base: In a medium bowl, mix 1 cup of flour, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Add the cubed cold butter. Use a pastry blender or two forks to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial to achieving a tender, flaky crust.
3. Bake the Crust: Transfer the crumb mixture to the prepared baking dish, pressing it uniformly across the bottom. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the edges start to brown lightly.
4. Prepare the Lemon Filling: While the crust bakes, prepare the lemon filling. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup of granulated sugar and 2 large eggs until the mixture is smooth. Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, baking powder, and 2 tablespoons of flour, whisking until well combined.
5. Assemble and Bake: Pour the lemon mixture over the pre-baked crust, ensuring it covers the base evenly. Place the dish back in the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes. The filling should be set and slightly firm to touch.
6. Cool and Cut: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, use the parchment overhang to lift the slab from the dish. Cut into 16 squares, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
– For a more intense lemon flavor, consider increasing the lemon zest slightly. Be cautious not to add more juice, as it may alter the texture.
– Ensure the butter is cold for the shortbread base to achieve the right texture.
– These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerated for longer freshness.
Cooking Techniques
– Butter Cutting: This technique involves combining cold butter with dry ingredients. It creates a crumbly mixture essential for the right texture in shortbread crusts.
– Zesting Lemons: Use a microplane or a fine grater to remove only the yellow part of the lemon skin. The white pith underneath is bitter and can affect the flavor.
– Smooth Whisking: When preparing the lemon filling, whisk continuously to maintain a smooth texture and ensure all ingredients are properly incorporated.
FAQ
1. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
While fresh lemon juice offers a brighter, more authentic flavor, bottled juice can be a substitute if necessary. However, it may affect the overall freshness of the taste.
2. Can these bars be frozen?
Yes, they can be frozen. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last for up to 3 months.
3. How do I know when the bars are done?
The filling should be set and should not jiggle when you gently shake the pan. A slight golden color on top indicates they are ready.
Conclusion
Luscious Lemon Bliss Bars are the perfect treat to bridge the gap between the seasons. Their bright, zesty flavor invokes the spirit of summer while offering comfort as cooler weather arrives. Whether served at a gathering or enjoyed as a solitary indulgence, these bars are sure to leave a lasting impression.
More Recipes Suggestions and Combinations
For more citrusy pleasures or to create a delightful dessert spread, consider experimenting with these ideas:
– Lemon Blueberry Scones: Pair your bliss bars with scones brimming with juicy blueberries and a hint of lemon zest.
– Orange Creamsicle Bars: A creamy alternative that combines the tang of citrus with the sweetness of cream.
– Lemon Meringue Tartlets: Mini tarts featuring a crunchy base, tart lemon curd filling, and fluffy meringue.
– Citrus Olive Oil Cake: An unconventional cake that embraces citrus zest and high-quality olive oil for a moist, aromatic bite.
These combinations can elevate your dessert experience, creating a complementary array of flavors that celebrate citrus in all its glory.
