Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars
Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars are bright and zesty treats with a buttery texture that melt in your mouth. Perfect for any occasion and incredibly easy to make, they bring comfort and a burst of flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (2-3 minutes).
- Add in the egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Beat until fully combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture and fold until just combined.
- Spread the batter evenly into the lined baking dish and smooth the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the edges are golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then lift out using the parchment paper and cool completely on a wire rack.
- Slice into squares and dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Notes
Always measure flour accurately; let butter soften at room temperature; for extra zest, add more lemon zest; consider chilling the batter for extra chewy bars.