These bars offer a perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors, with a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s sure to impress. Perfect for a quick snack or a fun dessert, these bars are incredibly easy to make and require minimal effort.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the use of classic flavors. The bright, zesty taste of lemon pairs beautifully with the comforting sweetness of sugar cookies, creating a treat that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Plus, these bars are incredibly easy to make, with just a few simple ingredients and steps.

Imagine the joy of biting into one of these Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars, experiencing the burst of lemon flavor complemented by the sweetness of the cookie base. Whether you’re serving these as a snack for the family or bringing them to a gathering, these bars are sure to be a hit.

Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars offer a delightful and easy treat that combines the bright, zesty flavor of lemon with the comforting sweetness of sugar cookies. With a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture, these bars are perfect for any occasion, requiring minimal effort and simple ingredients.

Exciting Story:

I first made these bars for a summer picnic with friends. I wanted to create a treat that was both refreshing and easy to make, and these bars fit the bill perfectly. As I mixed the ingredients together, the aroma of lemon filled the air, and I couldn’t wait to try them. The first bite was met with smiles and compliments, and before I knew it, the entire batch had disappeared. Now, these bars are a staple at our summer gatherings, and I always look forward to sharing them with loved ones.

Why These Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars Are a Must-Try

Selling Points:

• Bright Flavors: The combination of lemon and sugar cookies creates a delightful blend of tangy and sweet flavors.
• Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, these bars come together effortlessly.
• Versatile: Perfect for a quick snack or a fun dessert, these bars are sure to impress both kids and adults.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The classic flavors make these bars a hit at any gathering.

What You Need For Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)

How to Make Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
   • Beat in the egg, lemon zest, and lemon juice until well combined.
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
3. Bake the Bars:
   • Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish.
   • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
   • Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before dusting with powdered sugar and cutting into squares.

Tips For Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars:

• Avoid Overmixing: Be careful not to overmix the dough to maintain a tender texture.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste the dough and adjust the sweetness if needed.

Substitutions and Variations:

• Citrus Swap: Try using lime zest and juice for a different citrus flavor.
• Add-Ins: Mix in white chocolate chips or dried fruit for added texture and flavor.
• Topping Ideas: Drizzle with a lemon glaze or sprinkle with coarse sugar for added sweetness and crunch.

Make a Healthier Version:

• Reduce Sugar: Use less granulated sugar or opt for a sugar-free alternative for a lower-sugar option.
• Add Whole Grains: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.

Closing For Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars:

There you have it—a delightful and easy treat that’s perfect for any occasion. We’d love to hear how your Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars turn out, and don’t forget to explore our other recipes for more dessert inspiration.

Frequently Asked Questions For Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars:

Can I use salted butter? Yes, but reduce the amount of added salt to 1/8 teaspoon.

How do I store leftover bars? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, they can be made up to a day in advance and stored at room temperature.

What if I don’t have lemon juice? You can use bottled lemon juice, but fresh is preferred for the best flavor.

Can I use a different type of sugar? Yes, brown sugar can add a deeper flavor, but the texture may vary.

How do I prevent the bars from sticking? Use parchment paper to line the baking dish for easy removal.

Can I add other flavors to the bars? Yes, a touch of vanilla extract or almond extract can add a unique twist.

How do I know when the bars are done? The edges should be lightly golden, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Can I freeze these bars? Yes, store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to one month.

What’s the best way to serve these bars? Serve them at room temperature, dusted with powdered sugar.

Can I use a different pan size? Yes, but adjust the ingredient amounts accordingly to maintain the bar thickness.

How do I achieve even dusting? Use a fine-mesh sieve to dust the powdered sugar evenly over the bars.