I first discovered the Pioneer Woman Lemon Bars recipe while searching for a dessert that was both bright and comforting. As soon as I baked my first batch, I was hooked. The perfect balance between tangy lemon and a buttery crust makes these bars a standout treat. Whenever I share them, friends and family immediately ask for the recipe, and I understand why.
You will love this recipe because it offers a fresh, zesty flavor that wakes up your taste buds. The texture is equally delightful — a tender, crumbly base with a smooth, creamy lemon topping that melts in your mouth. These bars are wonderfully versatile; they can be served as a casual snack, an elegant dessert for guests, or even a sweet pick-me-up during afternoon tea.
One of the best things about Pioneer Woman Lemon Bars is how affordable they are to make. With simple ingredients like flour, sugar, butter, eggs, and fresh lemons, you can create a delicious treat without breaking the bank. These ingredients are easy to find in any pantry or local store, making this recipe accessible for any baker, beginner or experienced.
Ingredients for Pioneer Woman Lemon Bars:
-
2 cups all-purpose flour
-
1/2 cup powdered sugar
-
1 cup cold unsalted butter (cut into pieces)
-
4 large eggs
-
2 cups granulated sugar
-
1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
-
1 tablespoon lemon zest
-
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
-
Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
This simple ingredient list packs a punch of flavor and texture. Using fresh lemon juice and zest is essential to get that authentic, vibrant taste. The cold butter creates a flaky crust, while the eggs and sugar help form the smooth, tangy topping. These bars are truly a crowd-pleaser that bring sunshine to any table.
Preparing these lemon bars is straightforward and rewarding. The process begins with making the buttery crust, which serves as the perfect base for the tangy lemon filling. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready once your dough is mixed.
First, combine the all-purpose flour and powdered sugar in a large mixing bowl. Then, cut the cold butter into small pieces and add it to the flour mixture. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial because it ensures the crust will be flaky and tender after baking.
Next, press the crumbly dough evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Be sure to pack it firmly to create a solid base. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until it is lightly golden. This partial baking will prevent the crust from becoming soggy when you add the lemon filling.
While the crust is baking, prepare the lemon filling. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes pale and smooth. Then, add the freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, and baking powder. Mixing these ingredients well helps achieve the perfect tangy and fluffy texture for the topping.
Once the crust is done, remove it from the oven and carefully pour the lemon filling over the hot crust. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20 to 25 minutes. The filling should set but still be slightly jiggly in the center. After baking, let the bars cool completely in the pan to room temperature, then chill them in the refrigerator for at least two hours. This chilling step allows the bars to firm up for clean slicing.
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its quick and easy preparation. The steps are simple and require minimal equipment, making it accessible for bakers of all levels. Plus, the total active time is under 30 minutes, while the baking and chilling times let you focus on other tasks.
You can customize these lemon bars by adding a dusting of powdered sugar on top for extra sweetness or a few fresh berries for garnish. Some enjoy swapping regular granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a subtle caramel note. No matter the tweaks, these bars remain popular for their bright lemon flavor and tender texture. They are a hit at family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday celebrations alike.
Print
Pioneer Woman Lemon Bars
Pioneer Woman Lemon Bars are a delightful, tangy dessert with a buttery crust and a smooth lemon topping. This recipe balances bright citrus flavors with a tender, crumbly base, making it perfect for any occasion.
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 16 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup cold unsalted butter (cut into pieces)
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the flour and powdered sugar.
- Add the cold butter pieces to the flour mixture. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press the dough evenly and firmly into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Bake the crust for 20 minutes or until lightly golden.
- Meanwhile, whisk together eggs and granulated sugar in a separate bowl until pale and smooth.
- Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and baking powder until combined.
- Pour the lemon mixture over the hot crust as soon as it comes out of the oven.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 20 to 25 minutes. The filling should be set but slightly jiggly in the center.
- Remove from the oven and cool completely at room temperature.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up before slicing.
- Optional: dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor.
Ensure the butter is cold when blending into the flour for a flaky crust.
Chilling the bars thoroughly helps achieve clean cuts.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 45
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemons?
While fresh lemon juice provides the best flavor and brightness, you can use bottled lemon juice if necessary. Just be sure to use pure lemon juice without added sugars or preservatives.
How should I store these lemon bars?
Store the lemon bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 4 to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2 months.
Can I make these lemon bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly.
What is the best way to cut lemon bars without them crumbling?
Chill the bars thoroughly before cutting, and use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts. This helps create clean edges.
Can I prepare these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars taste even better after chilling overnight, making them a great make-ahead dessert option.