If you’re searching for an irresistibly simple dessert that absolutely bursts with bright, fresh flavor, these 5-Ingredient Lemon Bars will be your new go-to treat. Imagine buttery shortbread, tangy-sweet citrus filling, and a dusting of snowy powdered sugar — all with minimal fuss and maximum sunshine in every bite. This recipe is a true gem for busy weeknights, last-minute parties, or whenever your sweet tooth craves something special. With just five basic ingredients, you’ll be amazed at how quickly these crowd-pleasers come together!

5-Ingredient Lemon Bars Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of 5-Ingredient Lemon Bars comes from how a handful of pantry staples can transform into something extraordinary. Each ingredient plays its part to create the perfect balance of richness, tartness, and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Let’s break down what you’ll need:

Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): This is the heart of the crust, making it perfectly rich and tender with a melt-in-your-mouth bite.
Granulated sugar (2 1/2 cups, divided): It sweetens both the crust and the luscious lemon filling, balancing the tart citrus beautifully.
All-purpose flour (2 1/4 cups, divided): Gives the crust its classic structure and just enough body to the lemon topping.
Large eggs (4): These create that gorgeously smooth, custardy lemon layer with a hint of richness.
Fresh lemon juice (1/2 cup): Don’t skimp here — fresh lemons bring out a bright, vibrant flavor that makes these bars irresistible.
Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional): A simple finishing touch that adds an elegant look and a hint of extra sweetness.

How to Make 5-Ingredient Lemon Bars

Step 1: Prep Your Pan

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get everything ready for perfectly baked bars. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, letting some hang over the edges. This trick ensures you can lift out your lemon bars with zero fuss and keeps cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Make the Buttery Crust

In a medium bowl, use a mixer or sturdy spoon to cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup of the granulated sugar until the mixture turns light and fluffy. Add in 2 cups of flour, mixing until it starts to clump and looks like slightly damp sand. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan to form a smooth, even crust. Bake this layer for 15 to 18 minutes, until it’s just turning golden and smells absolutely heavenly.

Step 3: Whip Up the Lemon Filling

While the crust bakes, grab a large bowl and whisk together the eggs, the remaining 2 cups of sugar, and the fresh lemon juice until the texture is smooth and glossy. Sift in the final 1/4 cup of flour and whisk again, making sure everything is fully combined. This is where the magic — and that sunshiny lemon flavor — starts to happen!

Step 4: Bake the Lemon Layer

Once the crust is out of the oven (and still hot), pour the lemon filling over the top. Immediately return the pan to the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the filling looks set in the center and just starts to turn the lightest golden at the edges. That gentle jiggle in the middle is exactly what you want for creamy lemon bars.

Step 5: Cool, Dust, and Slice

Let your freshly baked 5-Ingredient Lemon Bars cool completely in the pan. This is absolutely key for neat slices! Once cooled, grab those handy parchment edges and lift out the entire block. If you like, sift a snowy layer of powdered sugar across the top for a classic finish, then cut into tidy squares and get ready to impress your lucky taste-testers.

How to Serve 5-Ingredient Lemon Bars

Garnishes

These bars shine on their own, but a touch of powdered sugar gives that irresistible finish. For an extra burst of color, add a sprinkle of finely grated lemon zest or a few curls of lemon peel. Fresh berries or a sprig of mint can also add a pop of contrast and summery flair, especially if you’re serving them at a gathering or picnic.

Side Dishes

Since 5-Ingredient Lemon Bars are so bright and tangy, they pair beautifully with creamy vanilla ice cream or a rich dollop of whipped cream. For something a little lighter, a bowl of fresh mixed berries on the side works wonderfully, balancing the brightness with simple sweetness. If you love coffee or tea, either one makes a perfect pairing!

Creative Ways to Present

Want to turn a simple batch into something spectacular? Try cutting the bars into triangles or bite-sized pieces for a dessert platter. Stack them in layers between parchment squares for high tea, or serve each one in a mini cupcake liner for easy grab-and-go treats at parties. They also make heartfelt gifts — just wrap a few in a pretty box lined with parchment and tuck in a handwritten note.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These bars hold up beautifully! Store any leftover 5-Ingredient Lemon Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay wonderfully fresh and bright for up to 5 days — perfect for make-ahead desserts or sweet lunchbox surprises throughout the week.

Freezing

If you want to save a batch for later (or just love to plan ahead!), you can freeze the bars easily. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, and then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll keep their zesty kick for up to 2 months; just thaw in the fridge before serving, and dust with extra powdered sugar if needed.

Reheating

While 5-Ingredient Lemon Bars are typically best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, you can warm them up gently in the microwave for a few seconds if you prefer. This softens the filling slightly and intensifies their citrus aroma — perfect for a cozy dessert moment.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Fresh lemon juice really makes these bars sing, giving them their signature bright and tangy flavor. While bottled juice works in a pinch, you’ll notice a deeper, more vibrant citrus taste when you squeeze lemons yourself!

How do I know when the lemon bars are done baking?

You’ll want the filling to look set in the center with a slight golden color around the edges. If it still looks wet or jiggles like liquid when gently shaken, bake it for a few more minutes. Remember, it will continue to firm up as it cools.

Can I add lemon zest to the filling?

Absolutely! If you want extra zing and lemon aroma, stir in 1 to 2 teaspoons of lemon zest with the filling. It gives a lovely depth and sparkle to the final flavor of your 5-Ingredient Lemon Bars.

How do I get clean slices when cutting?

Wait until the bars are completely cooled, and use a sharp knife (wiping it clean between cuts) for the neatest squares. You can even pop the bars in the fridge for an hour before slicing for crisper edges.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Swap out the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free baking blend (1-to-1 ratio), and you’ll still get that classic texture. Just be sure your blend contains xanthan gum or a similar binder for best results.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about sharing a batch of 5-Ingredient Lemon Bars straight from your own kitchen. With their sunny flavor and effortless preparation, they’re the kind of treat everyone loves — and you’ll find yourself turning to this recipe again and again. Give it a try, and let these bars add a little sweetness and brightness to your day!

5-Ingredient Lemon Bars Recipe

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4.6 from 6 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 16 bars 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These 5-Ingredient Lemon Bars are a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors in every bite. A buttery crust topped with a luscious lemon filling, these bars are the perfect treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour, divided

Lemon Filling:

4 large eggs
2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2–3 lemons)

Additional:

Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add 2 cups of flour and mix until a crumbly dough forms. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Make the lemon filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, 2 cups granulated sugar, and fresh lemon juice until smooth. Sift in the remaining 1/4 cup flour and whisk until well combined. Pour the lemon mixture over the hot crust and return to the oven.
Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and just slightly golden around the edges. Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan.
Finish and serve: Once cool, lift out using the parchment paper and dust with powdered sugar if desired. Cut into squares and enjoy!