Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars
Ingredients
Directions / Instructions
Why You'll Love These Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars
If you love soft sugar cookies but don't want the hassle of rolling and cutting dough, these Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars are the perfect solution. They're baked in a single pan, making them quick, easy, and ideal for serving a crowd.
The buttery cookie base is infused with fresh lemon zest and juice, while the silky lemon buttercream frosting adds a sweet citrus finish. Every bite is soft, chewy, and refreshing—making these bars a favorite for spring and summer celebrations.
Ingredients
For the Cookie Bars
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Lemon Frosting
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream or milk (if needed)
- Extra lemon zest for garnish
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pan
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients until a soft dough forms.
4. Bake
Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set. Allow the bars to cool completely.
5. Prepare the Frosting
Beat the butter until smooth. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and enough cream to create a smooth, spreadable frosting.
6. Frost and Slice
Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cookie bars. Garnish with additional lemon zest, chill for 20 minutes if desired, then cut into squares and serve.
Expert Tips
Use freshly squeezed lemon juice and fresh zest for the brightest citrus flavor. Avoid overbaking the bars so they stay soft and chewy. Chill before slicing for cleaner, more professional-looking squares.
Storage
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring them to room temperature before serving. They can also be frozen (unfrosted or frosted) for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with iced tea, coffee, lemonade, or fresh berries. They're perfect for Easter dessert tables, spring picnics, bridal showers, baby showers, birthday parties, and holiday cookie trays.
Recipe Variations
Add poppy seeds to the cookie dough, top with fresh raspberries or blueberries, use cream cheese frosting instead of buttercream, drizzle with white chocolate, or add a hint of lavender or thyme for a sophisticated citrus dessert.
Frequently Asked Questions
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