Brighten up your dessert table with these tangy and sweet Lemon Frosted Bars—a zesty treat that's as easy to make as it is delicious! Featuring a buttery shortbread crust infused with fresh lemon zest and topped with a smooth, creamy lemon frosting, every bite bursts with citrusy goodness. Perfectly balanced with a hint of sweetness, these bars are ideal for spring gatherings, afternoon tea, or anytime you crave a refreshing dessert. Ready in under an hour and finished with a quick chill in the fridge, this recipe is a go-to for anyone who loves the vibrant flavor of fresh lemons. Whether you're a lemon lover or just looking for an irresistible crowd-pleaser, these frosted bars will hit the spot.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a medium mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the flour, salt, and lemon zest to the butter mixture. Stir until a soft dough forms.
Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, making sure to cover the entire bottom in an even layer.
Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan.
While the crust cools, make the frosting. In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, milk, and lemon zest until smooth and creamy.
Once the crust has cooled, spread the lemon frosting evenly over the top, using a spatula to smooth it out.
Chill the bars in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set the frosting.
Slice into 16 squares or bars and serve. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Calories |
2614 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 74.5 g | 96% | |
| Saturated Fat | 42.7 g | 214% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 189 mg | 63% | |
| Sodium | 622 mg | 27% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 483.7 g | 176% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 6.2 g | 22% | |
| Total Sugars | 337.9 g | ||
| Protein | 20.4 g | 41% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.3 mcg | 2% | |
| Calcium | 100 mg | 8% | |
| Iron | 8.5 mg | 47% | |
| Potassium | 329 mg | 7% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.