Ingredients with Measurements:
- For the crust:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
- For the filling:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Parchment paper
- Electric mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
Step-by-step instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and brown sugar for the crust. Add the cold butter and mix with an electric mixer until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
- While the crust is baking, prepare the filling. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the lemon juice, flour, and salt to the egg mixture and whisk until well combined.
- Pour the filling over the baked crust and return to the oven. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set.
- Allow the lemon bars to cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar and cutting into squares.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 40-45 minutes
- Total time: 55-60 minutes
5. Temperature:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C)
Serving size:
- Makes 12-16 bars
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Protein: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Brown sugar can be substituted with granulated sugar or coconut sugar.
- All-purpose flour can be substituted with gluten-free flour or almond flour.
- Unsalted butter can be substituted with salted butter, but adjust the amount of salt in the recipe accordingly.
Variations:
- Lime bars: Substitute lime juice for the lemon juice.
- Orange bars: Substitute orange juice for the lemon juice.
- Raspberry lemon bars: Add 1/2 cup of fresh raspberries to the filling before baking.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the butter for the crust is cold and cut into small pieces to ensure a crumbly texture.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar to prevent it from melting.
Storage instructions:
- Store the lemon bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Lemon bars can be served cold or at room temperature. If you prefer them warm, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the lemon bars on a platter or cake stand.
- Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with lemon slices or fresh berries.
Garnishes:
- Lemon slices
- Fresh berries
- Mint leaves
Pairings:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Sparkling water
Suggested side dishes:
- Fresh fruit salad
- Vanilla ice cream
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the crust is too crumbly, add a tablespoon of cold water at a time until it comes together.
- If the filling is not setting, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to use fresh eggs and store the lemon bars in the refrigerator to prevent bacterial growth.
Food history:
- Lemon bars are a classic dessert that originated in the United States in the early 20th century.
Flavor profiles:
- Sweet and tangy with a buttery crust.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a dessert or snack.
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