Lemon Bars

If you haven't noticed by now, both Caroline and I have a thing for lemon. Next to chocolate, it might just be the best flavor in a dessert. Lemon bars are one of my favorite types. I've tried many different recipes, from boxed brands to The Essential Baker, but this simple one from my mother-in-law beats them all.


Lemon Bars
recipe by Kelly's mother-in-law
Picture by Caroline

1 cup flour
1/2 cup butter, softened
1/4 cup powdered sugar
2 teaspoons lemon zest
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice*
1 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 eggs
powdered sugar for dusting

1. Heat oven to 350° F. Mix flour, butter and powdered sugar in a small bowl.
   
2. Press evenly into bottom of 8 x 8 inch ungreased square pan. Bake for 20 minutes.
3. Beat remaining ingredients (except powdered sugar) in a medium bowl on medium speed until light and fluffy.
   
4. Pour over hot crust and bake about 20-25 minutes, just until no indentation remains when touched lightly in center. Let stand until cool and sprinkle with powdered sugar. Cut into squares.
   

*These can be made using bottled lemon juice and lemon peel, but in my opinion, the taste is far superior using freshly squeezed lemon juice.