Yummy Lemon Bars

 

January in Arizona means citrus time.  We have a nice lemon tree that usually produces more than we can use, so I'm big on lemon recipes.  This is my favorite for some tart, lemony ooey gooiness in a bar.  It's super easy to make too!

Ingredients

2 1/4 c. sifted all purpose flour
1 c. powdered (confectioners' sugar)
1 c. melted butter
4 eggs
2 c. white sugar
1 tsp baking powder
3/4 c. lemon juice

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and grease a 9 x 13" pan.  Be sure to grease the sides because the gooey part can get stuck on the sides.  

In a medium bowl, mix together 2 cups of the sifted flour and the powdered sugar.  Don't omit the step of sifting the flour (and preferably the powdered sugar too).  Mix the melted butter into the flour and powdered sugar.  It will look like this as you mix it:

Once you mix it, you will press it into the bottom of your baking pan.  Try to press it up slightly on the sides so your bars don't stick.  Using a fork to flatten the dough eliminates any lumps and makes the crust more solid.  After you press the crust into the pan, it should look like this:

Bake the crust in the oven for 10-15 minutes until golden brown.  While the crust is baking, beat the eggs in a bowl until light and fluffy. In another bowl, combine the sugar, baking powder and remaining flour in a separate bowl, making sure to break up any clumps or crumbs.  Mix the dry ingredients into the egg mixture and stir in the lemon juice. 

After removing the crust from the oven, pour the mixture over the crust and return to the oven for 30 more minutes. 

While pan is still warm, sprinkle sifted confectioner's sugar over the top.  Allow bars to cool completely before cutting and cut around the perimeter of the pan first.  

Enjoy!

cindy