lemon bars

Ingredients

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cut into pieces
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup lemon juice (from about 3-4 lemons)
• Zest of 2 lemons

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour an 8x8 inch baking pan.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Add sugar and salt; stir until combined.
5. Bring to a boil and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
6. Remove from heat and whisk in eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition.
7. Stir in flour until just combined.
8. Pour mixture into prepared pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until edges are set but center is still slightly jiggly.
9. Let cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.

Notes

• For a smoother crust, you can use a food processor to pulse the butter and sugar together before adding the eggs.
• To ensure even baking, use a rimless baking sheet.
• The bars are best served chilled. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• For a more intense lemon flavor, add 1 teaspoon of lemon extract.