3 large eggs
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
¼ cup fresh lemon juice or other tart juice (e.g., lime, orange)
Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
2 Tbsp flour
Pinch of salt
Why These Ingredients Work
The crust of flour, powdered sugar and butter forms a buttery, crisp base. The filling of eggs, sugar and fresh‑juice gives a lively tang and silky texture. The small amount of added flour helps stabilize the filling for clean slices. See other bar recipes for inspiration. thekitchn.com+1
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Line a 9×13‑inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
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In a bowl, combine 1 ¾ cups flour with powdered sugar and melted butter. Mix until a crumbly dough forms. Press firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust. Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden.
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Meanwhile, in another bowl whisk together eggs, granulated sugar, lemon (or other juice), zest, 2 Tbsp flour and a pinch of salt until smooth and combined.
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Remove the crust from oven and pour the filling mixture over the hot crust. Return to oven and bake for an additional 20‑25 minutes or until the center is just set and no longer jiggly.
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Let the bars cool completely in the pan. Using the parchment overhang, lift out the whole block and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour for cleaner cuts.
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Once chilled, cut into squares or rectangles. For a pretty finish, dust with powdered sugar just before serving.
Tips for Success
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Use fresh citrus juice for the brightest flavor.
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Press the crust mixture firmly into the pan to keep it from crumbling when slicing.
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Allow the filling to set and cool thoroughly—chilling helps the tangy layer firm up so you get clean, beautiful bars.
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For a cleaner presentation, wipe your knife between cuts.
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For variation in texture, you could add a thin layer of fruit compote on top before cutting.
Variations
Flavor Twists
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Lime bars: swap lemon juice for fresh lime and add lime zest.
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Mixed berry bars: stir in about ½ cup fresh raspberries or blueberries into the filling before baking.
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Orange‑cranberry: use fresh orange juice and zest with ½ cup chopped dried cranberries stirred into the crust.
Dietary Adaptations
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Gluten‑free: use a 1:1 gluten‑free flour blend for both crust and filling.
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Lower sugar: reduce granulated sugar by ¼ cup and increase citrus juice slightly for brightness.
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Dairy‑free: use vegan butter or coconut oil for the crust and ensure all other ingredients are suitable.
Ingredient Substitutions
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All‑purpose flour → gluten‑free baking flour blend
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Butter → vegan butter or refined coconut oil
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Lemon juice → lime, orange, or grapefruit juice (for different tang)
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Granulated sugar → coconut sugar (note the filling may be slightly less bright)
Storage & Serving
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Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for best texture.
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These bars can also be frozen: wrap in plastic and foil, freeze for up to 1 month, then thaw in refrigerator overnight before serving.
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Serve with a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of zest, or fresh berries to elevate presentation.
What to Serve With These Treats
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A hot cup of freshly brewed coffee or an espresso to match the tang with bitterness.
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A glass of chilled sparkling wine or prosecco to complement the sweet‑tart profile.
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Fresh fruit salad or a light green salad to contrast the richness of the bars.
Nutrition Facts (Approximate per bar, assuming 12 bars)
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Calories: ~220 kcal
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Fat: ~11 g
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Carbohydrates: ~29 g
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Protein: ~3 g
(Values vary based on actual ingredients used.)
FAQs
Q: Can I use another size pan?
A: Yes — if using an 8×8 inch pan the bars will be thicker and need an additional 5‑10 minutes baking time.
Q: My filling cracked on top — what happened?
A: That often happens if the oven temperature is too high or it was over‑baked. The bars will still taste great though!
Q: Do I have to chill them before cutting?
A: Chilling makes cutting neater and the filling firmer, but you can serve at room temperature if short on time.
Q: Can I add toppings?
A: Absolutely! Drizzle melted white chocolate or top with sliced almonds or pistachios for extra texture and flavor.
Related Recipes
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Classic Lemon Bars (a close relative with similar crust and tang‑filled top)
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No‑Bake Berry Cheesecake Bars
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Salted Caramel Pretzel Dessert Bars
Conclusion
With just a handful of everyday ingredients and simple steps, these easy dessert bars deliver a delightful combination of buttery crust and bright, tangy filling. They’re perfect for a weeknight treat, sharing with friends, or dessert‑table show‑off. Make a batch today and enjoy that sweet‑tart magic in every bite!
