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Pioneer Woman Lemon Bars Recipe

4.5 from 640 reviews

Pioneer Woman Lemon Bars are a deliciously tangy and sweet treat featuring a buttery shortbread crust topped with a bright, zesty lemon filling. This classic dessert balances a tender base with a smooth, citrus-packed layer, finished with an optional dusting of powdered sugar for extra sweetness and presentation.

Ingredients

Scale

For the crust:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

For the lemon filling:

  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 45 lemons)
  • Zest of 2 lemons

For serving:

  • Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and ½ cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add 2 cups all-purpose flour and ¼ teaspoon salt, mixing until just combined to form a dough.
  2. Press and bake the crust: Press the dough evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
  3. Make the lemon filling: While the crust bakes, whisk together the 4 large eggs, 1 ½ cups granulated sugar, and ¼ cup all-purpose flour in a bowl until smooth. Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and lemon zest until fully incorporated.
  4. Bake the lemon bars: Pour the lemon mixture over the hot baked crust and return the dish to the oven. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and does not jiggle when gently shaken.
  5. Cool and serve: Remove from the oven and allow the lemon bars to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar if desired. Cut into squares and serve.

Notes

  • For best results, use freshly squeezed lemon juice to maximize brightness and flavor.
  • Do not overbake the filling to keep it soft and creamy rather than dry or rubbery.
  • Make sure to let the bars cool completely for easy slicing.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

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