Lemon Pie Bars
The ultimate refreshing treat, Lemon Pie Bars combine creamy, zesty lemon flavors with a buttery crust. Perfect for any occasion, these easy-to-make bars are sure to impress your family and friends!
Equipment
- Frying Pan
- Mixing Bowl
- Baking Sheet
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter softened
- 2 cups sugar
- 4 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
- 3 cups flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cans Duncan Hines Wilderness lemon pie filling 15.75 oz each
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract for glaze
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract for glaze
- 2 tablespoons milk for glaze
Instructions
- Start by creaming together butter and sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about three to five minutes. You should see a significant change in texture, and the color will lighten. This step is essential as it incorporates air into the batter, helping your bars to rise nicely.
- Next, add in the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. You should notice the mixture becoming smoother and slightly thicker. This is crucial for the right consistency, as the eggs help bind everything together.
- Mix in the vanilla extract and almond extract. The combination of these extracts will add depth to the flavor profile, enriching the overall taste of your bars.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add this to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix. You want your batter to be smooth but still retain some air. You should have a thick batter that holds its shape.
- Now, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (about 175 degrees Celsius). Prepare a greased jelly roll pan by lining it with parchment paper for easy removal of the bars later.
- Spread three cups of the batter evenly in the prepared pan. It should be a nice, even layer that covers the bottom completely.
- Next, spread the lemon pie filling on top of the batter. This can be done with a spatula for a smooth finish. Make sure it’s evenly distributed; this will create a lovely tart layer that contrasts beautifully with the sweet batter.
- Using the remaining batter, drop spoonfuls over the top of the lemon pie filling. This doesn’t have to be perfect, as it will spread a little while baking, but aim for a nice distribution to allow for a beautiful, textured top.
- Now, place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be lightly golden and firm to the touch, not jiggly.
- Once baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan. After cooling, you can make the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Drizzle this over the cooled bars for a sweet finish. For the best texture, if you’re serving the next day, wait to glaze them until just before serving so they don’t get soggy.
- Finally, cut into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy the delightful burst of flavor in every bite of your Lemon Pie Bars!
Notes
- Storage: Store any leftovers in the refrigerator to maintain their texture and freshness.
- Freezing: You can freeze these bars for up to two months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly.
- Variations: Experiment with different extracts or add-ins to create your version of these bars!