Meyer Lemon Bars

Meyer lemon bars are a bright taste of summer! This delightful dessert features a tart-sweet filling paired with a buttery shortbread crust, making it the ideal treat for picnics, potlucks, or simply enjoying at home. The unique flavor of Meyer lemons adds a special twist that sets these bars apart from traditional lemon bars.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Crust
• For the Filling
• How to Make Meyer Lemon Bars
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Crust
• Step 3: Make the Filling
• Step 4: Bake Again
• Step 5: Cool and Serve
• Step 6: Optional Doubling
• How to Serve Meyer Lemon Bars
• Garnish with Fresh Berries
• Pair with Whipped Cream
• Serve with Ice Cream
• Enjoy with Tea or Coffee
• How to Perfect Meyer Lemon Bars
• Best Side Dishes for Meyer Lemon Bars
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Meyer Lemon Bars
• Reheating Meyer Lemon Bars
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use regular lemons instead of Meyer lemons?
• How do I know when my Meyer lemon bars are done?
• Can I customize my Meyer lemon bars?
• How should I serve Meyer lemon bars?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – This recipe requires minimal ingredients and simple steps, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Versatile Dessert – Meyer lemon bars can be served at various occasions, from family gatherings to holiday parties.
• Bright Flavor – The balance of tart and sweet in these bars delivers a refreshing burst of flavor with every bite.
• Perfect Texture – Enjoy the contrast of the smooth filling against the crumbly crust, creating a delightful mouthfeel.
• Make Ahead Option – These bars can be prepared in advance and stored, allowing for easy entertaining.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious Meyer lemon bars.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• 8 x 8 glass baking dish
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer – It helps achieve a light and fluffy texture when creaming butter and sugar.
• Glass baking dish – Provides even heat distribution for perfectly baked lemon bars.
• Parchment paper – Makes it easy to lift out the baked bars without sticking.

Ingredients

To create your Meyer Lemon Bars, gather the following ingredients:

For the Crust

• 1 cup all-purpose flour (4.5 ounces)
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar (2.3 ounces)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt (omit if using salted butter)

For the Filling

• 1 cup granulated sugar (7 ounces)
• 3 large eggs (room temperature, beaten)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 cup Meyer lemon juice (about 3 large)
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

How to Make Meyer Lemon Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Grease or line an 8 x 8 glass baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment:
1. Cream together unsalted butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add in flour, mixing just until blended.
3. Pat or press the dough into the bottom of the prepared pan.
4. Bake at 350 degrees F for 15-20 minutes or until barely golden.

Step 3: Make the Filling

While the crust bakes:
1. In the same mixing bowl, blend together granulated sugar, eggs, flour, baking powder, and Meyer lemon juice just until combined.

Step 4: Bake Again

Once your crust is ready:
1. Pour the filling onto the baked crust.
2. Return to oven for an additional 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

After baking:
1. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
2. Cut into squares and dust with powdered sugar just before serving.
3. Garnish with very thin slices of Meyer lemon wedges for added flair!

Step 6: Optional Doubling

To double this recipe, simply bake in a larger 13 x 9 pan.

Now you are ready to enjoy your homemade Meyer Lemon Bars! Perfect for sharing or savoring all on your own!

How to Serve Meyer Lemon Bars

Meyer lemon bars are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile in how they can be served. They’re perfect for various occasions, whether it’s a casual gathering or a formal event. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

Garnish with Fresh Berries

• Strawberries: Fresh strawberries add a vibrant color and a sweet contrast to the tartness of the bars.
• Blueberries: These little gems provide a juicy burst that complements the flavors beautifully.
• Raspberries: Their tartness pairs excellently with the sweetness of the Meyer lemon filling.

Pair with Whipped Cream

• Homemade Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a luxurious touch to each bite.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Consider adding vanilla or almond extract for an extra layer of flavor.

Serve with Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing, its creamy texture balances the tartness perfectly.
• Lemon Sorbet: For an extra zing, lemon sorbet is refreshing and enhances the citrus theme.

Enjoy with Tea or Coffee

• Herbal Tea: A calming herbal tea complements the bright flavors of Meyer lemon bars nicely.
• Espresso: The boldness of espresso provides a delightful contrast to the sweet dessert.

How to Perfect Meyer Lemon Bars

To achieve the best Meyer lemon bars, consider these essential tips for perfecting your recipe.

• Use Fresh Meyer Lemons: The flavor of fresh lemons significantly enhances the taste compared to bottled juice.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until ingredients are combined to prevent tough bars; be gentle with your mixing.
• Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out clean when fully cooked.
• Cool Completely Before Cutting: Allowing them to cool helps set the filling properly and makes cutting easier.

Best Side Dishes for Meyer Lemon Bars

Meyer lemon bars make a delightful dessert, and pairing them with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the dessert.
2. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette can cleanse the palate between bites of rich dessert.
3. Cheese Platter: Various cheeses like goat cheese or brie pair wonderfully with lemon flavors.
4. Savory Tartines: Open-faced sandwiches topped with cheese or vegetables provide a satisfying savory contrast.
5. Roasted Nuts: A bowl of spiced nuts offers crunch and flavor that pairs well with sweet treats.
6. Panna Cotta: This creamy Italian dessert can complement Meyer lemon bars beautifully without overpowering them.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people make simple mistakes when preparing Meyer lemon bars. Avoiding these common errors will help you achieve the perfect balance of tart and sweet.

• Overmixing the crust: Mixing the crust too much can lead to a tough texture. Instead, mix just until the ingredients are combined for a tender shortbread base.
• Not using room temperature ingredients: Cold ingredients can affect the texture of your filling. Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for best results.
• Skipping the cooling time: Cutting into the bars too early can cause them to fall apart. Allow them to cool completely before slicing for clean edges.
• Using the wrong type of lemon juice: Regular lemon juice can be too tart. Use freshly squeezed Meyer lemon juice for that signature sweet-tart flavor.
• Ignoring baking times: Each oven is different, so keep an eye on your bars as they bake. Check for doneness with a toothpick to avoid overcooking.
• Not dusting with powdered sugar: Skipping this final touch can diminish presentation. A light dusting adds flavor and makes your Meyer lemon bars look even more appealing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Meyer lemon bars will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Meyer Lemon Bars

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Meyer Lemon Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place bars on a baking sheet, and warm for about 10 minutes until just heated through.
• Microwave: Place one bar on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 15-20 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a non-stick skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping gently to warm evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Meyer lemon bars.

Can I use regular lemons instead of Meyer lemons?

You can use regular lemons, but they may result in a more tart flavor. To balance this, consider reducing the amount of sugar slightly.

How do I know when my Meyer lemon bars are done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, they’re ready!

Can I customize my Meyer lemon bars?

Absolutely! You can add zest from Meyer lemons for extra flavor or try incorporating fresh herbs like basil or mint for a unique twist.

How should I serve Meyer lemon bars?

Meyer lemon bars are delightful served chilled with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and fresh fruit on the side.

Final Thoughts

Meyer lemon bars are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Their bright flavors make them perfect for any occasion, from summer picnics to cozy winter gatherings. Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite toppings or variations. Enjoy making these sweet treats!