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Platter of traditional Southern lemon bars dusted with powdered sugar

Southern Style Lemon Bars

These Southern Style Lemon Bars are a delightful treat, featuring a buttery shortbread crust and a tangy, sweet lemon filling. Perfect for any occasion, they offer a refreshing citrus burst with every bite.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 12 squares
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Crust
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ⅛ teaspoon salt
Filling
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • ½ cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ⅛ teaspoon salt
For Dusting
  • 2 tablespoons confectioners' sugar

Equipment

  • oven
  • 9x13-inch baking pan
  • parchment paper
  • medium bowls
  • whisk
  • wire rack

Method
 

Crust Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x13-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper.
  2. Combine softened butter, ½ cup granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, and ⅛ teaspoon salt until crumbly, then press into the prepared pan.
  3. Bake the crust for 15-20 minutes until lightly golden brown.
Filling Preparation
  1. Whisk together eggs, the remaining ½ cup granulated sugar, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, baking powder, and the remaining ⅛ teaspoon salt until smooth.
  2. Pour the lemon filling over the warm, partially baked crust and bake for another 20-25 minutes until set.
  3. Allow the bars to cool completely on a wire rack before lifting them out of the pan.
  4. Dust generously with confectioners' sugar before slicing and serving.

Notes

Cooling completely is essential for the bars to set properly and makes slicing much easier.