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A plate of Zesty Lemon Dream Bars with a golden crust, vibrant lemon filling, and a dusting of powdered sugar on top.

Zesty Lemon Dream Bars: Your New Favorite Fudgy Citrus Treat

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Discover the irresistible Zesty Lemon Dream Bars, a perfect fusion of tart citrus and rich fudgy chocolate, making them your new favorite lemon dessert. These vibrant bars feature a zesty lemon flavor combined with a decadent chocolatey base, ideal for summer gatherings, tea time, or satisfying your sweet tooth cravings with a citrus twist.

  • Total Time: 40-45 minutes
  • Yield: 9 bars

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons lemon zest
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup powdered sugar for glazing (optional)
  • Fresh lemon slices and zest for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line with parchment paper. Cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs, then add lemon zest and juice, mixing well.
  2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
  3. Pour batter into prepared pan, spread evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes until edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool completely.
  4. Whisk powdered sugar with lemon juice to create glaze. Drizzle over cooled bars. Garnish with lemon zest and slices if desired.

Notes

  • For a smoother glaze, sift powdered sugar before mixing.
  • Use fresh lemon juice for a brighter flavor.
  • Bars can be stored refrigerated for up to 5 days.
  • For a thicker glaze, add more powdered sugar.
  • Author: Emma Bloomfield
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bar
  • Calories: 250 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 20 g
  • Sodium: 80 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 45 mg