Bright & Zesty Paula Deen Lemon Bars Recipe

Zesty Paula Deen’s lemon bars burst with sunshine-infused flavor, transforming ordinary dessert moments into extraordinary culinary experiences.

These tantalizing treats blend Southern charm with citrusy elegance, creating a symphony of taste that dances across your palate.

A buttery, tender crust cradles a silky lemon filling that whispers of sweet-tart perfection.

Each bar carries the warmth of homemade comfort, inviting you to savor its delicate layers of richness.

Simple ingredients magically combine to produce a dessert that looks far more complicated than its straightforward preparation.

The bright, golden filling nestled on a crumbly base promises a delightful escape from mundane sweets.

Check out this irresistible recipe and let these lemon bars become your new favorite indulgence.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Calories: 320 kcal

Servings: 11

What’s Inside Paula Deen’s Lemon Bars

• All-Purpose Flour: Select unbleached flour for a more robust texture and authentic flavor.
• Confectioner's Sugar: Choose finely ground sugar for smoother blending and delicate sweetness.
• Salt: Use fine sea salt for balanced flavor enhancement.
• Butter: Pick cold, high-quality unsalted butter for optimal crumbly consistency.

• Eggs: Select fresh, large eggs at room temperature for smooth mixing.
• Granulated Sugar: Opt for pure cane sugar with fine crystal structure.
• All-Purpose Flour: Use same flour as crust for consistent texture.
• Lemon Juice: Squeeze fresh lemons for vibrant, bright citrus notes.
• Lemon Zest: Grate organic lemons to avoid wax and chemical residues.

• Confectioner's Sugar: Use premium powdered sugar for elegant, even dusting.
• Cooking Spray (Optional): Select neutral flavor spray for easy pan release.

Tools for Making Lemon Bars

• 9x13x2-inch baking pan: Perfect for creating beautifully even lemon bars.
• Large mixing bowl: Where the magic of mixing dry ingredients happens.
• Whisk: Essential for blending the lemon filling smoothly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Helps ensure precise ingredient amounts.
• Fine-mesh sieve: Creates a delicate powdered sugar dusting.
• Cooking spray or butter: Prevents the crust from sticking.
• Sharp knife: For clean, precise cutting of the bars.
• Kitchen towel or cooling rack: Allows the bars to cool evenly.
• Zester or grater: Optional, for adding lemon zest for extra flavor.

How to Bake Lemon Bars the Paula Deen Way

• Fire Up the Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 350°F. Snag a baking pan and give it a quick spray or butter massage to keep things from sticking.

• Craft the Crumbly Base

Dive into mixing flour, powdered sugar, and a whisper of salt. Chop cold butter into the dry mix until it looks like sandy crumbs. Press this magical mixture firmly into the pan, using floured fingers if things get sticky. Bake until the edges turn a warm golden color, about 15-20 minutes.

• Whip Together the Zesty Filling

Grab eggs and sugar, then blend with flour and a splash of bright lemon juice. Whisk everything until silky smooth. If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some lemon zest for an extra flavor punch.

• Layer and Finish

Pour the vibrant lemon mixture over the just-baked crust, spreading it evenly across the surface. Pop back into the oven for about 25 minutes. You’re looking for a filling that’s set but still has a gentle wiggle in the center.

• Cool and Serve

Let the pan chill out at room temperature until completely cooled. Once it’s reached the perfect temperature, shower the top with a fluffy dusting of powdered sugar. Slice into delightful squares and get ready to wow your taste buds.

Tips and Flavor Ideas for Paula Deen’s Lemon Bars

• Experiment with different citrus fruits like lime or orange to create unique flavor variations that will surprise your taste buds and add a fresh twist to the classic recipe.
• Add a handful of finely chopped toasted almonds or pecans to the crust mixture for an unexpected crunch that elevates the traditional lemon bar experience and provides a delightful nutty undertone.
• Enhance the lemon flavor by incorporating additional lemon zest into both the crust and filling, or garnish with thin lemon slices and fresh mint leaves for a beautiful and aromatic presentation that impresses guests.
• Keep these lemon bars fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For best results, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking and maintain their delicate powdered sugar coating.

Ways to Serve Paula Deen’s Lemon Bars

• Pair with Fresh Berries: Top each lemon bar slice with a handful of fresh raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries to add a vibrant burst of color and complementary fruity flavor.
• Serve with Whipped Cream: Dollop a light, airy whipped cream alongside each lemon bar to balance the tangy citrus notes and provide a creamy contrast.
• Afternoon Tea Presentation: Arrange lemon bars on a beautiful ceramic plate with a hot cup of Earl Grey or chamomile tea for an elegant and classic dessert experience.
• Garnish with Mint Leaves: Sprinkle a few delicate mint leaves on top of the powdered sugar for a subtle herbal touch and an extra layer of visual appeal.

How to Store Paula Deen’s Lemon Bars Properly

• Preserve Freshness: Store lemon bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, keeping them away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
• Refrigerate for Extended Enjoyment: Extend the treat's life by placing bars in a sealed container in the refrigerator, which maintains their texture and flavor for up to 5-7 days.
• Freeze for Future Cravings: Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Frozen lemon bars can last up to 2-3 months, perfect for unexpected dessert emergencies.
• Thaw with Care: Remove frozen bars from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before serving, ensuring they regain their delightful texture and taste.

Vibrant Paula Deen Lemon Bars Recipe

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4.8 from 21 reviews

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 11 1x

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Description

Zesty paula deen lemon bars showcase a buttery shortbread crust topped with tangy, silky lemon filling. Creamy and refreshing, these classic dessert squares will delight you with their perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 eggs
• 2 cups (473 ml/16 fl oz) granulated sugar
• 6 tbsps (90 ml/3 fl oz) fresh lemon juice
• 2 cups (240 g/8.5 oz) all purpose flour
• 1 cup (120 g/4.2 oz) confectioner’s sugar
• 1 pinch salt
• 2 sticks (226 g/8 oz) butter, at room temperature
• Butter (additional amount) for greasing

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Instructions

1. Crust Preparation: Combine flour, powdered sugar, and salt in a mixing bowl. Cut cold butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the mixture evenly into a greased 9x13x2-inch baking pan, using flour-dusted fingers to create a uniform base.
2. Initial Baking Phase: Place the crust in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until achieving a light golden appearance. Remove and let rest momentarily while preparing the filling.
3. Lemon Filling Creation: Whisk eggs, granulated sugar, flour, and freshly squeezed lemon juice until achieving a smooth, silky consistency. Carefully pour the vibrant mixture over the pre-baked crust, ensuring complete and even coverage.
4. Final Baking Process: Return the pan to the oven and continue baking for 25 minutes. Watch for the filling to set and lose its liquid wobble, indicating perfect doneness.
5. Cooling and Finishing: Allow the lemon bars to cool completely within the pan, which helps stabilize the filling’s structure. Once thoroughly cooled, generously dust the surface with powdered sugar. Slice into precise, uniform squares to reveal the delectable layers of buttery crust and tangy lemon filling.

Notes

• Chill Butter for Flakiness: Use cold, cubed butter to create a crumbly, tender crust that provides a delicate texture and prevents greasy results.
• Zest Boost Option: Add lemon zest to intensify the citrus flavor and enhance the filling’s aromatic profile for a more vibrant taste experience.
• Even Pressing Technique: Use the back of a measuring cup or flat-bottomed glass to press the crust evenly, ensuring uniform thickness and perfect baking.
• Cooling is Crucial: Allow bars to cool completely at room temperature before cutting to help the filling set properly and maintain clean, crisp edges.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 11
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 35 g
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 11 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 43 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 120 mg