Introduction
This delightful recipe combines a buttery shortbread base with a tangy lemon curd topping, making for a refreshing treat perfect for any occasion. The balance of sweet and tart flavors in these lemon bars will tantalize your taste buds, all while being simple to prepare.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Shortbread Base:
– 3/4 cup (95g) all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup (35g) rice flour or cornstarch
– 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar, sifted
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 110g (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cut into 1cm (1/2″) cubes
Lemon Curd Topping:
– 3 large eggs (55-60g each)
– 1 cup (200g) caster sugar (super-fine sugar)
– 2 tablespoons (20g) all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 1/2 cup (125ml) fresh lemon juice (from 2-3 lemons)
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 1 minute (including cooling time)
Yield: 16 squares
Prepare to indulge in these scrumptious lemon bars that seamlessly blend a shortbread crust with a luscious lemon curd. Each bite offers a perfect harmony of textures and flavors, making them a delightful addition to your dessert repertoire. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Set the oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a 20cm (8″) square baking tin and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
Step 2: Prepare Shortbread Base
In a food processor, combine the all-purpose flour, rice flour (or cornstarch), powdered sugar, and salt. Pulse the mixture to combine. Add the cold butter cubes and pulse again until the mixture resembles fine sand. Transfer this mixture to the prepared baking tin. Spread it evenly and press firmly into the base, ensuring it touches the edges. Bake for 20 minutes or until the edges are light golden.
Step 3: Prepare Lemon Curd Topping
While the shortbread base is baking, whisk together the eggs, caster sugar, all-purpose flour, lemon zest, and lemon juice until the mixture is smooth.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Once the shortbread base is baked, immediately pour the lemon curd mixture over the hot base. Return the tin to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the topping is set but still soft.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Remove the baking tin from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for 1 hour. Transfer the tin to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours. Once set, lift the lemon bars out using the parchment overhang and slice them into 16 squares. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
Ingredient Temperature
Ensure the butter is cold for the shortbread base to achieve a crumbly texture.
Using Fresh Lemons
For best flavor, use freshly squeezed lemon juice and freshly grated lemon zest.
Chilling Time
Allowing the lemon bars to chill properly will enhance their texture and make them easier to slice.
Storage
Store the lemon bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Cook techniques
Measuring Ingredients Accurately
Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precise measurements. This is crucial for baking since even slight variations can affect the end result.
Using Cold Ingredients
Ensure that butter is cold when making the shortbread base. Cold butter helps create a flaky texture in pastries.
Pulsing for Texture
When combining the dry ingredients with butter in a food processor, pulse until the mixture resembles fine sand. This creates a uniform texture without overworking the dough.
Pressing the Base Firmly
When transferring the shortbread mixture to the baking tin, press it down firmly to create a solid base. This prevents it from crumbling when cut.
Baking for the Right Time
Bake the shortbread base until the edges are light golden. This indicates that it’s cooked properly and will provide a nice contrast to the lemon curd topping.
Cooling Properly
Allow the baked lemon bars to cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating. This step is essential for setting the lemon curd topping.
Slicing Techniques
To slice the lemon bars neatly, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for clean edges. This makes for a more visually appealing presentation.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of flour for the shortbread base?
Yes, you can experiment with different flours, but make sure the texture remains similar to all-purpose flour for best results.
How can I store leftovers?
Store the lemon bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Can I freeze lemon bars?
Yes, lemon bars can be frozen. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
What can I do if my lemon curd didn’t set?
If the lemon curd didn’t set, it might require additional baking time. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t overbake.
Can I add more lemon zest for a stronger flavor?
Absolutely! Feel free to increase the amount of lemon zest for a more pronounced lemon flavor in your bars.
Conclusion
The lemon bars made with a buttery shortbread base and a tangy lemon curd topping offer a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Their bright citrus notes and sweet undertones make them a perfect treat for any occasion, whether it be a sunny afternoon or a holiday gathering. Cool and refreshing, these lemon bars are sure to impress your guests and become a beloved favorite.
Variation with Lime Curd
Substitute the lemon juice and zest with fresh lime juice and zest to create a zesty lime version of these bars.
Berry Swirl Lemon Bars
Add a layer of mixed berry puree (raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries) in between the shortbread base and lemon curd for a delicious berry twist.
Chocolate Drizzle
Melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled lemon bars before slicing for an elegant and decadent touch.
Coconut Lemon Bars
Incorporate shredded coconut into the lemon curd mixture, or sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top for added texture and flavor.
Almond Shortbread Base
Replace half of the all-purpose flour with almond flour in the shortbread base for a nutty flavor and a different texture.
Ginger Lemon Bars
Add grated fresh ginger to the lemon curd for an extra kick of flavor that pairs beautifully with lemon.
Herbal Infusion
Infuse the lemon juice with fresh herbs like thyme or basil before adding it to the curd mixture for a sophisticated herbal note.
