🍋 Lemon Drop Bars – Extra Creamy & Irresistibly Tangy! 🍋
These ultra-creamy Lemon Drop Bars are bursting with bright citrus flavor and topped with candied lemon zest for the ultimate lemony bite! Perfect for any occasion! 😍✨
🛒 Ingredients:
For the Crust:
🔹 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
🔹 ¼ cup granulated sugar
🔹 ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Lemon Filling:
🔹 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
🔹 ½ cup fresh lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
🔹 2 teaspoons lemon zest
🔹 3 large egg yolks
For the Candied Lemon Zest (Optional but AMAZING!):
🔹 ½ cup sugar
🔹 ½ cup water
🔹 Zest from 1 lemon (cut into thin strips)
📌 Instructions:
1️⃣ Prep the Crust
👉 Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
👉 In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined.
👉 Press the mixture into a 9x9-inch baking dish lined with parchment paper.
👉 Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let cool.
2️⃣ Make the Filling
👉 In a bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and egg yolks until smooth.
👉 Pour the mixture over the cooled crust and spread evenly.
3️⃣ Bake & Chill
👉 Bake for 15-18 minutes, until set but slightly jiggly in the center.
👉 Let cool at room temperature, then chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours (overnight is best!).
4️⃣ Make the Candied Lemon Zest (Optional but SO good!)
👉 In a small saucepan, bring sugar and water to a simmer.
👉 Add thin strips of lemon zest and cook for 5-7 minutes until translucent.
👉 Remove and place on a wire rack to cool.
5️⃣ Garnish & Serve
👉 Top the chilled bars with candied lemon zest for an extra burst of citrus!
👉 Slice into squares, serve, and enjoy! 😋
💡 Pro Tips:
✅ Want a stronger lemon flavor? Add an extra ½ teaspoon lemon extract to the filling.
✅ Gluten-free? Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust!
✅ Extra creamy twist? Fold in ¼ cup mascarpone cheese to the filling!
#LemonDropBars #CitrusLover #EasyDessert #TangyAndSweet #HomemadeGoodness #BakingFun #SweetTreats