Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup cold butter, cubed
- 4 eggs
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Special Equipment Needed:
- 9x13 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and powdered sugar.
3. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
5. Bake for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, lemon juice, flour, baking powder, and salt.
7. Pour the mixture over the baked crust.
8. Bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden brown.
9. Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars.
10. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: 24 bars
Nutritional Information: (per bar)
Calories: 140
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 2g
Substitutions for Ingredients
- Butter: margarine or shortening
- Lemon juice: lime juice or orange juice
Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts to the crust for a crunchy texture.
- Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the filling for a tropical twist.
- Substitute lime juice for the lemon juice for a tart and tangy flavor.
Tips and Tricks:
- For a crispier crust, bake the crust for an additional 5 minutes.
- For a softer crust, bake the crust for an additional 5 minutes.
- For a more intense lemon flavor, add an additional 1/4 cup of lemon juice.
Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
- Dust with powdered sugar and serve with a dollop of freshly whipped cream.
- Cut into small squares and serve on a platter with fresh berries.
- Cut into wedges and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Garnishes:
- Freshly whipped cream
- Candied lemon slices
- Fresh berries
Pairings:
- Ice cream
- Fresh berries
- Whipped cream
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Fresh fruit salad
- Green salad
- Roasted vegetables
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the crust is too soft, bake for an additional 5 minutes.
- If the crust is too hard, bake for an additional 5 minutes.
- If the filling is too runny, bake for an additional 5 minutes.
Food Safety Advice:
- Wash hands, utensils, and surfaces with warm, soapy water before and after handling raw ingredients.
- Refrigerate any leftovers promptly.
Food History:
Lemon bars have been a popular dessert since the early 1900s. The classic recipe has remained largely unchanged over the years, with only minor variations.
Flavor Profiles:
Lemon bars have a sweet and tart flavor, with a buttery crust and a creamy lemon filling.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Serve with freshly whipped cream and fresh berries.
- Serve with a cup of hot tea or coffee.
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