Lemon Chess Bars

These Lemon Chess Bars are a delicious twist on the classic lemon bar recipe that you know and love. With a creamy lemon filling sandwiched between a layer of buttery crust, these bars are sure to be a hit. And the best part? They’re so easy to make!

A Refreshing Take on Lemon Bars

Lemon bars are always a crowd pleaser, but this recipe takes things to the next level. The addition of egg yolks, buttermilk, and a golden brown top crust gives these bars a unique flavor and texture that sets them apart from traditional lemon bars.

Easy to Make and Even Easier to Enjoy

Making these Lemon Chess Bars is a breeze. The crust comes together quickly in a food processor, and there’s no need to pre-bake it. Just press it into the baking dish, pour in the creamy lemon filling, and pop it in the oven. In no time, you’ll have a batch of mouthwatering bars ready to be devoured!

How to Make Lemon Chess Bars

Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

  • Crust:
    • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, chilled and cut into chunks
    • 1 ¼ cups flour
    • ¼ teaspoon salt
    • 3-5 tablespoons ice water
  • Filling:
    • 4 whole eggs
    • 4 egg yolks
    • 2 cups sugar
    • 2 cups flour
    • 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
    • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
    • 2 teaspoons lemon juice
    • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla
    • ½ teaspoon salt

Preparation:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with aluminum foil. Lightly grease the foil with butter or nonstick spray.
  2. In a food processor, combine the flour, salt, and butter. Pulse until the dough forms pea-sized chunks.
  3. Slowly add the ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, pulsing until the dough comes together.
  4. Press the dough evenly into the lined baking pan, covering the bottom and sides.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients (flour, sugar, and salt) for the filling.
  6. Add the egg yolks, whole eggs, buttermilk, vanilla, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the dry ingredients. Stir until well combined.
  7. Slowly pour in the melted butter, continuing to whisk until the filling is creamy.
  8. Pour the filling over the crust in the baking pan.
  9. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a golden crust forms on top.
  10. Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack.
  11. Optional: Before serving, lightly dust the bars with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.

Now you’re ready to enjoy these delectable Lemon Chess Bars! Whether you’re hosting a social event or just want a treat for yourself, these bars are the perfect choice. So grab a cup of coffee or tea, sit back, and savor every lemony bite.