Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars are a delightful and refreshing twist on the classic sugar cookie, combining the bright, zesty flavor of lemon with the soft, buttery texture of a cookie bar. These bars are easy to make and offer a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess, making them a favorite for any occasion. The lemon glaze on top adds an extra layer of citrusy goodness, making each bite burst with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a simple dessert to share at a gathering or a sweet treat to enjoy with your afternoon tea, these Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars are sure to impress with their light, summery taste.
Ingredients:
- For the Cookie Bars:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Lemon Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- Make the Cookie Dough:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, egg yolk, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, beating until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Bake the Cookie Bars:
- Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out smoothly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cookie bars to cool completely in the pan.
- Prepare the Lemon Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice until smooth and pourable. Adjust the consistency by adding more lemon juice or powdered sugar as needed.
- If desired, stir in the additional lemon zest for extra flavor.
- Glaze and Serve:
- Once the cookie bars have cooled, drizzle the lemon glaze evenly over the top.
- Let the glaze set before lifting the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares.
Enjoy your Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars, a sweet and tangy treat that’s perfect for any occasion, delivering a burst of refreshing citrus flavor in every bite!
