Chef Mitchell preparing Lemon Crumb Shortbread Bars
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I first discovered the joy of Lemon Crumb Shortbread Bars at a local bakery that made the perfect balance of sweet and tangy. After experimenting in my kitchen, I perfected this recipe to capture that same delightful flavor. Each bite is a little slice of sunshine, and I can't wait for you to try it. It's become a favorite for my family gatherings, and I hope it becomes one for yours too."

With over a decade of experience in the culinary world, I specialize in American cuisine and desserts. My passion lies in creating recipes that are both delicious and accessible to home cooks. Having graduated from a prestigious culinary school, I have developed a keen understanding of flavors and techniques that elevate everyday desserts.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Lemon Crumb Shortbread Bars served on a plate

Why This Lemon Crumb Shortbread Bars Recipe Works

This recipe is a standout due to its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The shortbread crust is buttery and crumbly, while the lemon topping adds a refreshing brightness that is irresistible. The use of fresh lemon juice and zest ensures a vibrant flavor that elevates these bars above typical desserts.

The technique of creaming the butter and sugar creates an airy base that results in a tender crumb. Baking at the right temperature is crucial to achieving that golden hue while maintaining a soft center. This method guarantees a successful outcome every time.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, always use fresh lemon juice and zest. This will enhance the flavor significantly compared to bottled lemon juice. Additionally, let the bars cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can make Lemon Crumb Shortbread Bars a day in advance. Just ensure that they are completely cooled before storing them in an airtight container. This will help the flavors meld together and enhance the taste. Simply dust with powdered sugar before serving.

If you need a dairy-free option, you can substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine. Ensure that the alternative is solid at room temperature for the best results. This may slightly alter the flavor, but it will still yield a delicious result.

The bars are done when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. It’s important not to overbake them, as they should remain soft in the center. Checking them a few minutes before the recommended baking time is a good practice.

Yes, Lemon Crumb Shortbread Bars freeze well. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To serve, simply thaw them at room temperature.

These bars pair wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a refreshing touch, serve them with fresh berries or a lemon sorbet. They also go well with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.

Lemon Crumb Shortbread Bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Make sure they are kept in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. If they start to dry out, simply place a piece of bread in the container to help keep them moist.

Absolutely! Making these bars in advance is not only possible but recommended. They taste even better the following day once the flavors have had time to meld together. Just store them properly, and they’ll be ready to enjoy when you need them.

To reheat Lemon Crumb Shortbread Bars, you can place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will warm them up without making them too soft. Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 10-15 seconds, but be careful not to overheat.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If the bars turn out too dry, it usually means they were overbaked or too much flour was added.

Solution: To prevent this, keep a close eye on the baking time and check for doneness a few minutes early. Additionally, ensure that you measure flour correctly, using the spoon and level method.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: Bars that are not crispy may not have baked long enough or may have too much moisture.

Solution: Make sure to bake until the edges are golden brown. If they are soggy, consider reducing the amount of liquid ingredients slightly next time.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooked bars can become tough and lose their desirable texture.

Prevention: To prevent overcooking, use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate temperatures, and check the bars for doneness a few minutes before the end of the baking time.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: If the center of the bars remains undercooked, this could result in a soggy texture.

Recovery: To remedy this in future attempts, make sure to spread the batter evenly in the pan and bake until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: Bars may have a burnt exterior if the oven temperature is too high or they are placed too close to the heating element.

Prevention: To avoid this, ensure that the oven is set to the right temperature and position the baking dish in the center of the oven for even cooking.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the bars are too sweet, you can adjust the sugar in future batches or add a bit more lemon juice to enhance the tartness.

Too Salty: If overly salty, ensure that you measure the salt accurately next time and use unsalted butter.

Bland: For bland bars, consider increasing the lemon zest and juice for a stronger lemon flavor.

Fresh ingredients for Lemon Crumb Shortbread Bars

Essential Ingredients for Lemon Crumb Shortbread Bars

Key ingredients in this recipe include unsalted butter, which provides a rich and creamy base, and granulated sugar, which sweetens the bars just perfectly. Fresh lemons are essential for their juice and zest, adding a bright flavor that complements the buttery shortbread.

Using high-quality ingredients, like organic lemons and fresh butter, can significantly elevate the taste of your bars. It’s worth investing in good ingredients to ensure that your dessert shines with flavor and texture.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of your recipe. It's best to use it at room temperature for easy blending with sugar, yielding a light and fluffy mix.
  • Fresh Lemons: Always opt for fresh lemons rather than bottled juice. The zest adds essential oils that enhance the flavor, making your bars more aromatic and flavorful.
  • Granulated Sugar: Granulated sugar is crucial for sweetness and texture. Make sure to measure it accurately to prevent overly sweet or bland bars.
Cooking process for Lemon Crumb Shortbread Bars

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Making Lemon Crumb Shortbread Bars is a straightforward process that requires basic baking skills. Start by preparing your ingredients and mixing them in the right order for optimal results. The key is to cream the butter and sugar well to ensure the bars are light and tender.

Baking the bars until they are just golden will yield the best texture. Letting them cool completely before cutting will help maintain their shape and make them easier to handle.

Key Technique for Perfect Lemon Crumb Shortbread Bars

The most important technique in this recipe is the creaming method. Properly creaming the butter and sugar helps incorporate air, making the bars light and fluffy. Ensure you beat them together until the mixture is pale and fluffy for the best results.

Lemon Crumb Shortbread Bars

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
    For sweetness
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
    Freshly squeezed
  • Zest of 2 lemons
    Enhances flavor

For the Sauce

  • 1 cup unsalted butter
    Softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
    For sweetness
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
    Base ingredient
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
    For texture
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    For balance
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
    For leavening
  • 2 large eggs
    Binders
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    Flavoring

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven

    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13 inch baking dish with parchment paper.

  2. Mix Dry Ingredients

    In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, and baking powder. Set aside.

  3. Cream Butter and Sugar

    In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

  4. Add Eggs and Flavorings

    Beat in the eggs, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest until well combined.

  5. Combine Mixtures

    Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

  6. Spread the Batter

    Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.

  7. Bake

    Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

  8. Cool and Dust

    Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cool, dust with powdered sugar before cutting into squares.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To keep your Lemon Crumb Shortbread Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to a week. If you're not planning to eat them all within that time, consider freezing them for later enjoyment.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these delightful bars on their own or with a side of whipped cream or fruit. They pair exceptionally well with a cup of tea or coffee, making them a perfect afternoon snack.

Recipe Variations

For a twist on the classic, try adding a layer of raspberry jam before baking or mix in some blueberries for added flavor. You can also experiment with different citrus fruits, such as lime or orange, for unique variations.