G’Ma RoRo’s Lemon Bars: A Tangy, Sweet Lemon Dessert Recipe
Growing up, my grandmother, affectionately known as G’Ma RoRo, was the queen of desserts in our family. Her lemon bars were legendary, a perfect balance of tangy and sweet, with a buttery crust that melted in your mouth. Every summer, we would gather in her kitchen, the air filled with the zesty aroma of fresh lemons, as she taught us the art of making these delightful treats. This recipe is not just a dessert; it’s a cherished memory that brings back the warmth of family gatherings and the joy of sharing something special with loved ones.
G’Ma RoRo’s Lemon Bars
A tangy and sweet lemon dessert featuring a buttery crust, passed down through generations.
Prep: 15 min | Cook: 25 min | Total: 40 min
Servings: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your lemon bars bake evenly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and powdered sugar. Beat until creamy. Gradually add the flour and a pinch of salt, mixing until the dough forms.
- Press this mixture into the bottom of a greased 8×8 inch baking dish.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-baking.
- In another bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, and baking powder until smooth.
- Pour this mixture over the baked crust.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly golden on top.
- Allow the lemon bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
Nutrition
- Calories: 200 calories
- Fat: 10g
- Carbs: 28g
- Protein: 2g
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Facebook PinterestWhy This Recipe Works
There are several reasons why G’Ma RoRo’s lemon bars stand out among the myriad of dessert recipes out there:
- Perfect Balance of Flavors: The combination of tart lemon juice and sweet sugar creates a harmonious flavor profile that is both refreshing and satisfying.
- Buttery Crust: The crust is made with real butter, giving it a rich flavor and a crumbly texture that perfectly complements the lemon filling.
- Simple Ingredients: This recipe uses basic pantry staples, making it accessible for anyone to whip up a batch without a trip to the specialty store.
- Family Tradition: Each bite is infused with love and nostalgia, making it more than just a dessert; it’s a piece of family history.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe serves 12 and takes about 15 minutes to prepare, with an additional 25 minutes of cooking time.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your lemon bars bake evenly.
- Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and powdered sugar. Beat until creamy. Gradually add the flour and a pinch of salt, mixing until the dough forms. Press this mixture into the bottom of a greased 8×8 inch baking dish.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-baking.
- Prepare the Filling: In another bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, and baking powder until smooth. Pour this mixture over the baked crust.
- Bake Again: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly golden on top.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the lemon bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
My Pro Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest will elevate the flavor of your lemon bars significantly.
- Chill Before Serving: For an extra refreshing treat, chill the lemon bars in the refrigerator for a couple of hours before serving.
- Experiment with Flavors: Try adding a hint of vanilla extract or a dash of lavender for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
- Make Ahead: These lemon bars can be made a day in advance, making them perfect for gatherings.
What I Serve With This Recipe
- Fresh berries, such as strawberries or blueberries, for a pop of color and flavor.
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for added creaminess.
- A cup of herbal tea or iced tea to complement the tangy flavors.
FAQs (From My Kitchen to Yours)
Can I use bottled lemon juice? While fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.
How do I store leftover lemon bars? Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I freeze lemon bars? Yes, you can freeze them! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to three months.
What if I don’t have baking powder? You can substitute baking powder with baking soda and cream of tartar in a pinch.
Why This Recipe Deserves a Spot on Your Table
G’Ma RoRo’s lemon bars are more than just a dessert; they are a celebration of family, tradition, and the joy of cooking together. The perfect balance of tangy and sweet, combined with a buttery crust, makes them irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply craving something sweet, these lemon bars will surely impress your guests and bring a smile to your face. I encourage you to try this recipe and create your own cherished memories.
Your Turn
I invite you to try G’Ma RoRo’s lemon bars and experience the delightful flavors for yourself. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, I’d love to hear your thoughts and any variations you might try. Share your experiences and let’s keep the tradition of delicious lemon bars alive!
G’Ma RoRo’s Lemon Bars: A Tangy, Sweet Lemon Dessert Recipe with a Buttery Crust
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Fresh berries, such as strawberries or blueberries, for garnish
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for serving
- Herbal tea or iced tea for pairing
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your lemon bars bake evenly.
- Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and powdered sugar. Beat until creamy. Gradually add the flour and a pinch of salt, mixing until the dough forms. Press this mixture into the bottom of a greased 8×8 inch baking dish.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-baking.
- Prepare the Filling: In another bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, and baking powder until smooth. Pour this mixture over the baked crust.
- Bake Again: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly golden on top.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the lemon bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish. Serve with fresh berries and a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
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