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Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust: A Delightful Treat from Sally’s Baking Addiction

Lemon bars are a quintessential dessert that strikes a perfect balance between sweet and tart, making them a favourite among citrus lovers. With a buttery shortbread crust that crumbles delightfully underfoot and a bright, zesty lemon filling, they are truly irresistible. Inspired by the delightful recipes found on Sally’s Baking Addiction, this article will guide you through the process of creating these mouthwatering treats in your own kitchen.

The Allure of Lemon Bars

What makes lemon bars so special? At their core, these treats boast a simple yet delightful combination of flavours and textures. The shortbread crust serves as a sturdy base with its rich buttery notes, creating a perfect canvas for the tart lemon filling. This filling, usually made from fresh lemon juice, eggs, and sugar, offers a refreshing zing that cuts through the sweetness, leaving you wanting more with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Shortbread Crust:

• 1 cup (125g) plain flour
• 1/2 cup (65g) icing sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened

For the Lemon Filling:

• 1 cup (240ml) fresh lemon juice (about 4-5 lemons)
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1/4 cup (30g) plain flour
• Zest of 2 lemons
• Icing sugar for dusting (optional)

Preparing the Shortbread Crust

1. Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch (20x20cm) square baking dish with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Mix the Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the plain flour, icing sugar, and salt. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the softened butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

3. Press into the Dish: Transfer the shortbread mixture into your prepared baking dish, pressing it down evenly to form the crust. Make sure to press it firmly into the corners.

4. Bake: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until it turns a light golden colour. Once baked, allow it to cool slightly while you prepare the lemon filling.

Making the Lemon Filling

1. Whisk Together the Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and the eggs until well combined. Gradually add the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest, followed by the plain flour. Mix until the filling is smooth and all ingredients are fully incorporated.

2. Pour Onto the Crust: Once the shortbread crust has cooled slightly, pour the lemon filling on top, spreading it evenly over the crust.

3. Bake Again: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is just set and a light golden hue forms on the surface.

4. Cool and Dust: After baking, remove the lemon bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the baking dish. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least an hour before cutting into squares. For a final touch, dust the bars with icing sugar just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

These lemon bars are perfect for a sunny afternoon tea or as a light dessert after dinner. They can be served plain or accompanied by a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Conclusion

Lemon bars with a shortbread crust are a delightful addition to any dessert table, offering a refreshing burst of citrus in every bite. Inspired by the exceptional recipes on Sally’s Baking Addiction, this treat is not only easy to make but is sure to impress family and friends alike. So gather your ingredients, embrace your inner baker, and enjoy the delightful tang of homemade lemon bars. Happy baking!