Gluten-Free Lemon Bars Recipe

Introduction

These gluten-free lemon bars are a bright and tangy treat with a buttery crust and a luscious lemon filling. Perfect for anyone avoiding gluten but still craving a classic dessert, they offer a delightful balance of sweet and tart.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter (melted, dairy-free use Smart Balance Butter)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour with xanthan gum
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup lemon juice (about 4 lemons)
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour with xanthan gum (I like Pillsbury gluten-free.)
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Line the bottom and sides of a 9×13 glass baking pan with parchment paper, allowing the paper to hang over the sides for easy removal.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, mix melted butter, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Add 2 cups gluten-free flour and stir until a thick dough forms. Press the dough firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan about 1/2-inch thick. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
3. Step 3: In another large bowl, whisk the eggs. Add 2 cups granulated sugar and whisk to combine. Stir in lemon juice and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract. Add 1/2 cup gluten-free flour and whisk until smooth.
4. Step 4: Pour the lemon mixture over the warm crust and bake for 26 minutes or until the center is almost set and no longer jiggles. Remove from the oven and cool at room temperature for 1 hour. Then cover and refrigerate for 2 hours until chilled.
5. Step 5: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars from the pan. Dust with powdered sugar and cut into squares. For clean cuts, wipe the knife between slices. Store leftovers in the refrigerator. Enjoy chilled for the best flavor.

Tips & Variations

• For extra citrus flavor, add finely grated lemon zest to the filling mixture.
• Use a serrated knife to cut the bars cleanly without compressing them.
• Substitute fresh lemon juice with bottled juice in a pinch, but fresh is best.
• To make it dairy-free, use a plant-based butter alternative as suggested.

Storage

Store the lemon bars covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They taste best when served cold. Before serving, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes for a softer texture. Avoid freezing, as this can affect the texture of the filling.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular all-purpose flour instead of gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute regular all-purpose flour if gluten is not a concern. The texture may be slightly different but still delicious.

How can I tell when the lemon bars are done?

The bars are done when the edges are set and the center no longer jiggles when gently shaken. The center may look slightly moist but should not be liquid.

Gluten-Free Lemon Bars Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 230 reviews

These Gluten-Free Lemon Bars feature a tender, buttery crust made with gluten-free flour and a zesty lemon filling that is perfectly balanced with sweetness and tang. Ideal for those avoiding gluten without sacrificing flavor, these bars are baked to a perfect set and dusted with powdered sugar for an elegant finish. Refreshing and delicious, they make a great dessert or snack for any occasion.

• Author: Windy
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 48 minutes
• Total Time: 3 hours 3 minutes
• Yield: 12–16 bars 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Crust

• 1 cup unsalted butter (melted, dairy-free option: Smart Balance Butter)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour with xanthan gum

Lemon Filling

• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup lemon juice (about 4 lemons)
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour with xanthan gum (Pillsbury gluten-free recommended)

Topping

• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pan and Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×13 glass baking pan completely with parchment paper, allowing excess parchment to hang over the edges for easy lifting later.
2. Make the Crust: In a large bowl, mix the melted butter, granulated sugar, pure vanilla extract, and salt until combined. Stir in 2 cups of gluten-free flour until a thick dough forms. Firmly press the dough evenly into the prepared pan to about 1/2-inch thickness. Bake the crust for 20-22 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned. Remove from oven and set aside.
3. Prepare the Lemon Filling: Whisk together the eggs in a large bowl. Add the sugar and whisk until combined and slightly frothy. Stir in the lemon juice and pure vanilla extract, mixing well. Whisk in 1/2 cup gluten-free flour until fully incorporated.
4. Assemble and Bake: Pour the lemon filling evenly over the warm crust. Return to the oven and bake for 26 minutes, or until the center is nearly set and no longer jiggles. Remove from oven and let cool completely at room temperature for about 1 hour.
5. Chill and Serve: Cover the bars with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until well chilled. Lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Dust the top with powdered sugar and cut into squares. For clean cuts, wipe the knife between slices. Store any leftovers refrigerated; these bars are best served cold.

Notes

• Ensure the gluten-free flour you use contains xanthan gum for proper texture and binding.
• For dairy-free preparation, substitute unsalted butter with a plant-based butter alternative.
• Allowing the bars to chill thoroughly enhances their texture and flavor.
• Use fresh lemons for the best lemon juice flavor; bottled lemon juice can alter the taste.
• Cutting with a warm, clean knife helps achieve cleaner slices.
• Storage: Keep leftover bars refrigerated and consume within 4-5 days for optimal freshness.

Keywords: gluten-free lemon bars, lemon dessert, gluten-free baking, dairy-free dessert option, lemon bars recipe, gluten-free treats