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A close-up of Bright & Fudgy Lemon Dream Bars showing a zesty lemon topping with glossy, fudgy base and lemon zest garnish.

Bright & Fudgy Lemon Dream Bars: A Zesty Citrus Delight

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Bright & Fudgy Lemon Dream Bars are a vibrant citrus dessert that combines tangy lemon flavor with a rich, fudgy texture. Perfect for spring and summer gatherings, these lemon brownies are easy to make and irresistibly delicious, offering a zesty treat that melts in your mouth.

  • Total Time: 40-45 minutes
  • Yield: 12 bars

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 ½ cups sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • Optional: powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
  2. Combine melted butter and sugar in a large bowl until smooth.
  3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Incorporate lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
  4. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl.
  5. Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet mixture, being careful not to overmix.
  6. Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out moist crumbs.
  8. Cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.

Notes

  • For a variation, replace lemon juice with lime juice.
  • Add raspberry jam on top before baking for a berry twist.
  • Use gluten-free flour if needed.
  • Use high-quality lemon extract to enhance flavor.
  • Author: Emma Bloomfield
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bar (about 1/12 of recipe)
  • Calories: 220 Kcal
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 70mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg