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lemon cake bars easy recipe

Buttery Lemon Cake Bars

Owen ParkerOwen Parker
These buttery lemon cake bars are a simple yet delightful dessert, perfect for lemon lovers. With easy steps and a few key ingredients, you can create a refreshing treat ideal for any occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8 slices
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 9x13-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper
  • 1 Electric Mixer
  • 1 Mixing Bowl large

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs room temperature
  • 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some to hang over the sides for easy removal later.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
  • In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. This should take about 3 to 4 minutes.
  • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the lemon juice and zest until fully incorporated.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix to avoid tough bars.
  • Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly with a spatula. Smooth the top as much as possible.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This will take about 1 hour.
  • Once cooled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper. Slice into squares or rectangles and serve.
  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Notes

Pro Tips: For an extra lemony flavor, add more zest. Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.
Ingredient Substitutions: Use almond flour for a gluten-free option.
How to Serve: Serve chilled for a firmer texture or at room temperature for a softer bite.
Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the batter in advance and refrigerate; bake fresh when needed.
Keyword easy lemon bar recipe, lemon cake bars easy, simple lemon dessert