Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars

The moment I take a bite of Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars, I’m transported back to sunny afternoons in my grandma’s kitchen. The air would be filled with the sweet and tangy aroma of fresh lemons and sugar, and I would sit at the counter, eagerly awaiting the first slice. These bars are not just desserts; they are experiences that spark joy and bring people together. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating a special occasion, or simply indulging on a regular day, the Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars are the perfect treat to share with family and friends. I love how they balance the sweetness of sugar with the refreshing zing of lemon, making them a delightful pick-me-up any time of the year.

What to Gather for Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step in making delicious Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars. Each component complements the others, creating a symphony of flavors and textures. The star of the show is, of course, the fresh lemons, which infuse the bars with their bright, zesty flavor. Combined with the sweetness of sugar and the richness of butter, these ingredients come together to create a dessert that’s sure to impress.

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour – The backbone of your cookie bars, giving them structure.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder – Adds lift and ensures a nice rise in the bars.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar – Provides the primary sweetness for the bars.
• Zest of 1 large lemon – Infuses the bars with an intense lemon flavor.
• 3/4 cup butter at room temperature – Adds richness and moisture to the cookie bars.
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar – Used for the frosting, giving it a smooth texture.
• 2 large eggs – Binds the ingredients together and contributes to the texture.
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice – Brightens the flavor profile and adds moisture.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds depth and enhances the overall flavor.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter at room temperature – Essential for the creamy lemon frosting.
• 8-ounce package cream cheese at room temperature – Creates a rich and tangy frosting.
• Zest of 2 lemons – Intensifies the lemon flavor in the frosting.
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice – Keeps the frosting smooth and flavorful.
• 5 cups powdered sugar – Sweetens the frosting and adds body.
• Colored sugar or sprinkles (optional) – For a fun and festive touch on top.

The Method for Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars

Making Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars is a delightful process that allows you to create something truly special. Follow these steps, and you’ll be rewarded with bars that are soft, sweet, and bursting with lemon flavor. Let’s get started!

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. While the oven is heating, grab a 9×13 pan (a glass Pyrex dish works great) and spray it with cooking spray. This will prevent the bars from sticking.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This dry mixture will give the bars their structure.
3. In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and lemon zest. Using your fingers, rub them together until fragrant. This step releases the essential oils from the zest, enhancing the lemon flavor.
4. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the butter and the lemon-sugar mixture. Beat on medium speed until smooth and fluffy, about 3 minutes. This creates a light base for your bars.
5. Slowly add the powdered sugar to the mixture, continuing to beat until it becomes light and fluffy. You’ll want a creamy texture at this point.
6. Next, add in the eggs, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Beat until the mixture is smooth and well combined, ensuring everything is evenly incorporated.
7. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing at a low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want the dough to be tender.
8. Spread the cookie dough evenly into the prepared pan using a spatula. Make sure it’s smooth and even for consistent baking.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 14 minutes. You want the bars to be set in the middle but not browned. Check for doneness by gently pressing the center; it should spring back.
10. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan.
11. While the bars are cooling, prepare the lemon cream cheese frosting. In the stand mixer, beat together the butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
12. Add the lemon zest and lemon juice, mixing until combined. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
13. Once the cookie bars are completely cool, frost them generously with the lemon cream cheese frosting. Feel free to use as much or as little as you like!
14. For an extra touch, decorate with colored sugar or sprinkles. Finally, cut the bars into squares and serve. Enjoy your delicious Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars!
15. Make sure to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. They stay delicious and fresh!

Ways to Customize

While I love the classic version of Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars, there’s so much room for creativity. Here are some tips to customize your bars:

• Switch Up the Citrus: While lemon is the star, try experimenting with lime or orange for a different flavor profile.
• Add Herbs: Consider incorporating fresh herbs like basil or mint for a unique twist that complements the lemon.
• Mix in Fruits: Fresh berries or even chopped apples can add a delightful surprise to the bars.
• Change the Frosting: Instead of lemon cream cheese frosting, try a simple glaze or a different flavored frosting, like vanilla.
• Storage: Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days to keep them fresh.
• Freezing: You can freeze the un-frosted bars for up to three months. Just thaw and frost when you’re ready to serve.
• Pairing: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Perfect Matches for Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars

When it comes to serving Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars, there are plenty of delightful pairings that can enhance the experience.

• Fresh Fruits: Serve alongside fresh fruit salads featuring strawberries, blueberries, or even tropical fruits to brighten up your dessert table.
• Tea or Coffee: These bars pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them perfect for afternoon gatherings.
• Special Occasions: They are ideal for birthdays, potlucks, or summer picnics, adding a sweet touch to any celebration.
• Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
• Seasonal Pairing: These bars are especially refreshing in the spring and summer months, complementing the lighter, fresher foods of the season.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars truly stand out with their perfect balance of sweetness and zesty freshness, making them an unforgettable treat. I encourage you to try this recipe in your own kitchen; it’s a wonderful way to bring a little sunshine into your day. Whether for a special occasion or just because, these bars are sure to impress everyone who takes a bite!

Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars

The ultimate comfort food for any sweet tooth, these Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars are perfectly sweet with a zesty kick. Easy to make and even easier to devour, they’re ideal for gatherings or a cozy night in. Treat yourself to this delightful dessert tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 14 minutes mins

Total Time 34 minutes mins

Servings: 20 servings

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 220

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large zest of lemon
• 3/4 cup butter at room temperature
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter at room temperature
• 8 ounces cream cheese at room temperature
• 2 lemons zest of lemon
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 5 cups powdered sugar
• cups colored sugar or sprinkles optional

Equipment

• Oven
• Whisk
• Baking Sheet
• Mixing Bowl
• Frying Pan

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. While the oven is heating, grab a 9x13 pan (a glass Pyrex dish works great) and spray it with cooking spray. This will prevent the bars from sticking.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This dry mixture will give the bars their structure.
3. In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and lemon zest. Using your fingers, rub them together until fragrant. This step releases the essential oils from the zest, enhancing the lemon flavor.
4. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the butter and the lemon-sugar mixture. Beat on medium speed until smooth and fluffy, about 3 minutes. This creates a light base for your bars.
5. Slowly add the powdered sugar to the mixture, continuing to beat until it becomes light and fluffy. You'll want a creamy texture at this point.
6. Next, add in the eggs, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Beat until the mixture is smooth and well combined, ensuring everything is evenly incorporated.
7. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing at a low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want the dough to be tender.
8. Spread the cookie dough evenly into the prepared pan using a spatula. Make sure it’s smooth and even for consistent baking.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 14 minutes. You want the bars to be set in the middle but not browned. Check for doneness by gently pressing the center; it should spring back.
10. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan.
11. While the bars are cooling, prepare the lemon cream cheese frosting. In the stand mixer, beat together the butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
12. Add the lemon zest and lemon juice, mixing until combined. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
13. Once the cookie bars are completely cool, frost them generously with the lemon cream cheese frosting. Feel free to use as much or as little as you like!
14. For an extra touch, decorate with colored sugar or sprinkles. Finally, cut the bars into squares and serve. Enjoy your delicious Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars!
15. Make sure to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. They stay delicious and fresh!

Notes

• Tip 1: Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days to keep them fresh.
• Tip 2: You can freeze the un-frosted bars for up to three months. Just thaw and frost when you’re ready to serve.
• Tip 3: Serve alongside fresh fruit salads featuring strawberries or blueberries to brighten your dessert table.
• Tip 4: These bars are ideal for birthdays, potlucks, or summer picnics, adding a sweet touch to any celebration.
• Tip 5: They are especially refreshing in the spring and summer months, complementing the lighter, fresher foods of the season.

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Meet Chloe Bennett

I started this blog to document the rustic, comforting food I love to make. I’m the “Pine” of the group I’m all about hearty stews, wood-fired cooking, and cozy, one-pot meals. I brought my best friends on board to make this a shared journal of our adventures. I work closely with Maya to develop our main courses and do most of the writing for our posts.