Indulge in culinary bliss: ultimate lemon bars recipe in a generous 9 x 13 pan

Lemon bars are a classic dessert that combines the bright, tangy flavor of lemon with a buttery, crumbly crust. If you’re looking for an easy and delicious recipe that will impress your friends and family, look no further than this lemon bars recipe for a 9×13 pan.

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes

For the Lemon Filling:

• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons lemon zest
• 2 large eggs
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

Making the Crust:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add the cold butter cubes and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work them into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13 pan.

Making the Lemon Filling:

1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Gradually whisk in the water until smooth.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 1 minute, or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, eggs, egg yolks, and melted butter.

Assembling the Lemon Bars:

1. Pour the lemon filling over the prepared crust.
2. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown.
3. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.

Tips for Making Perfect Lemon Bars:

• For a crispier crust, bake the crust for a few minutes before adding the lemon filling.
• If you don’t have fresh lemon juice, you can use 1/2 cup of bottled lemon juice.
• For a stronger lemon flavor, add an extra tablespoon of lemon zest.
• If the filling is too thick, add a little more water. If it’s too thin, add a little more cornstarch.
• Let the lemon bars cool completely before cutting them to prevent them from falling apart.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve lemon bars with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream.
• Dust with powdered sugar for a sweet and elegant touch.
• Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.

Variations:

• Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the crust for a nutty flavor.
• Spread a layer of raspberry jam on top of the crust before adding the lemon filling for a fruity twist.
• Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for a warm and cozy flavor.

In a nutshell: A Lemon-licious Treat for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a sweet treat, this lemon bars recipe for a 9×13 pan is sure to satisfy. With its bright, tangy flavor and buttery, crumbly crust, it’s a dessert that will become a favorite in your recipe box. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to indulge in the zesty goodness of homemade lemon bars.

Information You Need to Know

Q: Can I use a different size pan?
A: Yes, you can adjust the recipe to fit a different size pan. Just make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.
Q: How long can I store lemon bars?
A: Lemon bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I freeze lemon bars?
A: Yes, you can freeze lemon bars for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.