Homemade Lemon Bars

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. 2
   In a medium bowl or your stand mixer with the paddle attachment, cream butter until light and fluffy.
3. 3
   Add the sugar and beat until well blended.
4. 4
   Add flour and lemon zest and blend just until a crumb mixture forms. Press into the bottom of an ungreased parchment lined 9x9 inch pan.
5. 5
   Bake shortbread for 20 minutes in the preheated oven, or until firm and golden. 
6. 6
   While the crust is cooking, whisk together the remaining 1 ½ cups sugar and ¼ cup flour in a separate bowl.
7. 7
   Whisk in the eggs and lemon juice.
8. 8
   Pour over the baked crust.
9. 9
   Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes. If adding sweetened dried lemon slices, press them into the top a few minutes before the baking is complete.
10. 10
    Remove from oven and allow bars to cool to room temperature.
11. 11
    Transfer to the refrigerator and allow bars to chill. The bars will firm up as they cool.
12. 12
    Remove from pan and cut into nine 3-inch squares for large lemon bars or 16 smaller 2-inch squares.