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Joanna Gaines Lemon Bars Recipe

Sara Collins
The Joanna Gaines Lemon Bars Recipe is bright, fresh and full of citrus flavor. It has a buttery crust and a soft lemon filling. This dessert feels light but still rich.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 Bars
Calories 210 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Crust:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Lemon Filling:

  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups sugar
  • 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder

For Topping:

  • Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions
  

Prepare the Oven and Pan

  • Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line your baking pan with parchment paper. Lightly grease it for easy removal later.

Make the Crust

  • In a bowl, mix butter and powdered sugar. Add flour and salt. Mix until crumbly dough forms. Press the dough into the pan evenly.

Bake the Crust

  • Bake the crust for 18 to 20 minutes. It should look lightly golden. Remove from oven and let it cool slightly.

Prepare the Filling

  • In another bowl, whisk eggs and sugar. Add lemon juice and zest. Mix well until smooth and slightly thick.
  • Fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor. It makes the bars bright and fresh.

Add Dry Ingredients

  • Add flour and baking powder to the lemon mixture. Stir gently until fully combined. Do not overmix the filling.

Pour Over Crust

  • Pour the lemon filling over the warm crust. Spread evenly with a spatula. Make sure it covers the entire surface.

Bake Again

  • Return the pan to the oven. Bake for 20 minutes. The filling should be set but still soft in the center.

Cool Completely

  • Remove from oven and let the bars cool at room temperature. Then chill in the fridge for one hour.

Slice the Bars

  • Lift the bars using parchment paper. Place on a cutting board. Cut into even squares or rectangles.

Add Final Touch

  • Dust powdered sugar on top before serving. This adds sweetness and a beautiful finish.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor
  • Do not overbake the filling
  • Chill before slicing for clean cuts
  • Use parchment paper for easy removal
  • Sift powdered sugar for smooth topping
  • Add extra lemon zest for stronger flavor
  • Cut with a clean sharp knife
  • Store in the fridge for freshness
Keyword Joanna Gaines Lemon Bars Recipe