These Lemon Chess Bars are a classic Southern treat, combining a buttery, flaky crust with a rich, tangy lemon filling. The perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors makes these bars irresistible for any dessert lover. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or keeping them as a sweet snack for yourself, they’re sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (chilled), cut into chunks
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 3-5 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling:
- 4 whole eggs
- 4 egg yolks
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup buttermilk (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with foil and grease it lightly to prevent sticking.
- Make the Crust: In a food processor, combine 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, 3/4 teaspoon salt, and 1 cup chilled butter. Pulse until the mixture resembles pea-sized chunks.
- Add Ice Water: Gradually add 3-5 tablespoons of ice water, one tablespoon at a time, pulsing until the dough just comes together.
- Press the Dough: Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, ensuring it covers the entire bottom. Set aside while preparing the filling.
2. Prepare the Filling:
- Whisk the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, and a pinch of salt.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the 4 egg yolks, 4 whole eggs, 1 cup buttermilk, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 2 teaspoons lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon lemon zest to the sugar mixture. Stir until well combined.
- Add Butter: Slowly pour in the melted butter, whisking until the filling is smooth and well incorporated.
3. Assemble and Bake:
- Pour the Filling: Pour the lemon filling over the prepared crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is set. A slight jiggle in the center is okay; it will firm up as it cools.
4. Cool and Serve:
- Cool Completely: Let the bars cool completely on a wire rack. This helps the filling set properly and makes them easier to slice.
- Optional: For extra sweetness, dust the bars with powdered sugar before serving.
5. Enjoy:
- Serve: These bars can be served at room temperature, but for a refreshing treat, try serving them chilled from the fridge!
Serving and Storage:
- Serving: Cut the bars into squares or rectangles, and serve with a dusting of powdered sugar or extra lemon zest for a tangy touch.
- Storage: Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. These bars taste even better after chilling overnight!
Helpful Tips:
- Extra Zing: If you prefer a more intense lemon flavor, add an extra teaspoon of lemon zest to the filling.
- Chill Before Serving: For a firmer texture and a refreshing bite, chill the bars for a few hours before serving. They’re delicious cold!
- Avoid Overmixing the Dough: When making the crust, be careful not to overmix the dough to ensure a tender and flaky base.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Fresh lemon juice is highly recommended for the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.
2. Can I substitute buttermilk with regular milk?
For a similar tangy flavor, you can substitute buttermilk by mixing 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar into 1 cup of regular milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes before using.
3. How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the filling is set but still has a slight jiggle in the center, and the top is golden brown. It will firm up as it cools.
4. Can I freeze Lemon Chess Bars?
Yes, these bars freeze well. Once they are completely cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
5. How do I get clean slices?
For clean, sharp slices, chill the bars before cutting and use a sharp knife, wiping it clean between each cut.
These Lemon Chess Bars are a delightful balance of sweet and tart, making them perfect for any lemon lover. With their buttery crust and rich lemon filling, they’re sure to become a favorite treat!