What is a lemon bar?

A lemon bar is a delightful dessert consisting of a shortbread crust topped with a tangy lemon filling.

Here's a breakdown of its components:

* Crust: Typically made from flour, butter, sugar, and sometimes eggs. It has a buttery, crumbly texture.

* Filling: This is where the signature lemon flavor comes in. It's usually a mixture of lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, and eggs, sometimes with a touch of cornstarch for thickening. It sets firm as it cools, creating a creamy, tart layer.

Flavor profile: Lemon bars offer a beautiful balance of sweet and tart flavors. The buttery crust provides a rich base, while the lemon filling delivers a refreshing, tangy burst.

Variations: You can find many variations of lemon bars, including:

* Glazed lemon bars: A simple powdered sugar glaze is often added for extra sweetness.

* Raspberry lemon bars: A layer of raspberry jam is added beneath the lemon filling for a fruity twist.

* Blueberry lemon bars: Similar to raspberry lemon bars, but using blueberry jam.

* Brown butter lemon bars: Brown butter adds a nutty complexity to the crust.

Overall, lemon bars are a classic and versatile treat perfect for any occasion. They are easy to make, store well, and are always a crowd-pleaser!