Well, we’ve finished our first week of January. How is 2016 working out for you? Is it everything you hoped it would be? As of the writing of this, I’m down with one of those awful hacking colds, so I’m hoping week numero uno is not representative of my next 51! Considering that it’s healthy January, I debated whether or not to post any dessert recipes this month after the glut that was December. January feels much more suited to soups and salads than cupcakes, but I figure that every month deserves a little sweetness, so you’re getting lemon bars!
Lemon bars are actually the perfect dessert for this time of year, because they are utterly satisfying. Their flavor is so sharp and crisp and bracing, you only need one. And at fewer than 200 calories a bar, one’s not hurting anyone. This is a classic version of the recipe and it’s as simple of a dessert as you can get. The shortbread base comes together in a minute in your food processor with no softening of butter or creaming the ingredients. Then the custard gets whisked together while the base bakes. Simple, yummy, done. See Also: Frosted Brownies Dust with a little powdered sugar, put the kettle on, and you’re like 95% of the way to a perfect tea party. Just add guests and white gloves.
Nutritional Information 12 bars Nutritional Information 16 bars Adapted From: Sweet Surrender Bakery via The Bakersfield Californian Doubling Instructions: To double, cook in a 9 x 13-inch dish for the same amount of time. Halving Instructions: These halve cleanly. You can make a half batch in a 6 x 6-inch pan. Bake at the lower end of the normal baking time for the shortbread base. Cook the custard for 2-3 minutes less than the full-size batch. Keep an eye on the edges, making sure they don’t burn. Freezing Instructions: These freeze exceptionally well. Stack in an air-tight container, with sheets of parchment paper layered between. The custard doesn’t freeze solid, so they are edible right out of the freezer. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission if you make a purchase using them. There is absolutely no additional cost to you.
