Name: Lemon Meringue Bars Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 2 h 5 min
Yield: 9
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: FOR CRUST:; 1½ cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup powdered sugar; ½ tsp salt; ¾ cup unsalted butter; For Lemon Filling:; 3 large eggs; 1 egg yolk; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup lemon juice; 1 tbsp lemon zest; ¼ cup all-purpose flour; For Meringue:; 1 egg white; 1 pinch salt; ⅓ cup granulated sugar

Lemon meringue bars are a delightful twist on the classic pie, offering a harmonious balance of tangy lemon filling and sweet, fluffy meringue. These bars are perfect for spring and summer gatherings, or anytime you want a refreshing, citrusy dessert.

Photos of Lemon Meringue Bars Recipe

While most of the ingredients in this recipe are commonly found in most kitchens, you might need to pick up some specific ones if you're out. Make sure you have enough lemons for both juice and zest, and unsalted butter for the crust. Fresh eggs are essential for the lemon filling and meringue.

Ingredients For Lemon Meringue Bars

All-purpose flour: The base for the crust and helps thicken the lemon filling.

Powdered sugar: Adds sweetness to the crust with a finer texture.

Salt: Enhances the flavors in both the crust and filling.

Unsalted butter: Provides richness and helps bind the crust.

Eggs: Used in the lemon filling and meringue, providing structure and stability.

Granulated sugar: Sweetens the lemon filling and meringue.

Lemon juice: Gives the filling its tangy citrus flavor.

Lemon zest: Adds extra citrusy fragrance and flavor to the filling.

Egg yolk: Adds richness to the lemon filling.

Egg white: Whipped into the meringue to create a light and airy topping.

One reader, Hodge Justice says:

These lemon meringue bars are a delightful treat! The crust is perfectly buttery, the lemon filling is tangy and refreshing, and the meringue adds a lovely touch. They were a hit at my family gathering. Highly recommend!

Hodge Justice

Techniques Required for Making Lemon Meringue Bars

How to mix dough by hand: Combine flour, powdered sugar, salt, and butter in a bowl, and use your hands to mix until a crumbly dough forms. How to press dough into a pan: Transfer the dough to the prepared pan, and use your hands to press it against the bottom and about 1 inch up the sides. How to poke dough with a fork: Use a fork to poke the bottom of the dough all over to prevent it from puffing up during baking. How to whisk ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolk, granulated sugar, lemon juice, zest, and a pinch of salt until combined, then whisk in the flour until just combined. How to beat egg whites to stiff peaks: Use an electric hand mixer to beat the egg white until stiff peaks form. How to pipe meringue: Transfer the meringue to a pastry bag fitted with a large tip, or a zip-top bag with a corner snipped off, and pipe dollops of meringue on top of the lemon bars.

How To Make Lemon Meringue Bars

Sink your teeth into these decadent lemon meringue bars! They’re filled with a tangy lemon filling and topped with a sweet meringue for the sweetest treat.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 55 minutes

Chill Time: 1 hour

Total: 2 hours 5 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Crust:

1½cupsall-purpose flour
½cuppowdered sugar
½tspsalt
¾cupunsalted butter,(1½ sticks), cubed, room temperature

For Lemon Filling:

3large eggs
1egg yolk,reserve white for meringue
1cupgranulated sugar
½cuplemon juice
1tbsplemon zest
¼cupall-purpose flour

For Meringue:

1egg white
1pinchsalt
⅓cupgranulated sugar

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Grease and line a 9-inch square baking dish with parchment paper and place on a baking sheet.

Crust:

Combine the flour, powdered sugar, salt, and butter in a medium bowl, and use hands to mix until a crumbly dough forms.
Transfer the dough to the prepared pan, and use hands to press it against the bottom and about 1-inch up the sides. Poke the bottom all over with a fork.
Bake for 20 minutes until light golden brown.

Lemon Filling:

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, and egg yolk. Add the granulated sugar, lemon juice, zest, and a pinch of salt, and whisk to combine. Whisk in the flour until just combined.
When the crust is done baking, remove it from the oven.
Pour the lemon filling over the crust, then carefully return it to the oven for 25 minutes until the filling no longer jiggles and the center is mostly set.

Meringue:

In a clean, dry medium bowl, use an electric hand mixer to beat the egg white until stiff peaks form. Add about half of the sugar, whip for 30 seconds, then add the rest of the sugar and whip until combined.
Transfer the meringue to a pastry bag fitted with a large tip, or zip-top bag with a corner snipped off.
Pipe 9 evenly-spaced dollops of meringue on top of the lemon bars.
Return to the oven for 10 to 12 minutes until the meringues are lightly browned.
Let cool completely, then refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours.
Slice into 9 bars, then serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 398.18kcal
Fat: 17.60g
Saturated Fat: 10.42g
Trans Fat: 0.63g
Monounsaturated Fat: 4.78g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.06g
Carbohydrates: 56.07g
Fiber: 0.77g
Sugar: 36.63g
Protein: 5.38g
Cholesterol: 118.91mg
Sodium: 177.99mg
Calcium: 21.81mg
Potassium: 75.74mg
Iron: 1.50mg
Vitamin A: 161.78µg
Vitamin C: 6.11mg

Technique Tip for Perfect Lemon Meringue Bars

When making the meringue, ensure that the bowl and beaters are completely clean and free of any grease or egg yolk. Even a small amount of fat can prevent the egg whites from whipping up properly.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Lemon Meringue Bars

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and organize all ingredients before starting. This ensures a smooth workflow.

Use a food processor: Quickly mix the crust ingredients using a food processor instead of by hand.

Preheat the oven early: Start preheating the oven as soon as you begin gathering ingredients to save time.

Chill the meringue bowl: Place the bowl and beaters in the fridge before making the meringue to speed up the process.

Use parchment paper: Line the baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.

Substitute Ingredients For Lemon Meringue Bars Recipe

all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and more fiber, though it may make the crust denser.
powdered sugar - Substitute with granulated sugar: Granulated sugar can be processed in a blender to create a powdered consistency, though it may not be as fine.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt provides a similar salty flavor but may have a slightly different texture.
unsalted butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can replace butter, though it may alter the flavor slightly.
large eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) can be used for a vegan option, though the texture may differ.
egg yolk - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can add moisture and act as a binder, though it will change the flavor profile.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a caramel-like flavor.
lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice provides a similar acidity and citrus flavor.
lemon zest - Substitute with orange zest: Orange zest offers a different citrus note but can still provide a fresh flavor.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can thicken the filling similarly, though the texture may be slightly different.
egg white - Substitute with aquafaba: Aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas) can be whipped to create a meringue-like texture for a vegan option.
salt - Substitute with cream of tartar: Cream of tartar helps stabilize the meringue, though it doesn't add saltiness.
granulated sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can sweeten the meringue, though it will add a distinct flavor and may affect the texture.

Presentation Tips for Lemon Meringue Bars

Serve smaller portion sizes: Cut the lemon meringue bars into elegant, bite-sized pieces to create a refined and delicate presentation.
Use decoration: Garnish each piece with a small, edible flower or a thin slice of lemon zest to add a touch of sophistication and color contrast.
Plate with precision: Arrange the lemon meringue bars on a pristine white plate, spacing them evenly to highlight their individual beauty and ensure a clean, professional look.
Add a sauce drizzle: Create a light lemon or raspberry coulis and drizzle it artistically around the bars on the plate to add a burst of flavor and visual appeal.
Incorporate texture: Sprinkle a few crushed pistachios or almond slivers around the bars to introduce a contrasting texture and enhance the overall presentation.
Highlight the meringue: Use a culinary torch to lightly caramelize the meringue dollops on top of each bar, giving them a golden-brown finish that adds depth and visual interest.
Serve with a side: Pair the lemon meringue bars with a small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to complement the tartness of the lemon filling.
Create height: Stack two or three bars slightly offset from each other to add height and dimension to the plate, making the presentation more dynamic and eye-catching.
Use a unique serving vessel: Present the lemon meringue bars on a slate or marble slab to add a modern, upscale touch to the overall presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Lemon Meringue Bars

Oven: Used to bake the crust, lemon filling, and meringue to the desired texture and doneness.
9-inch square baking dish: The primary vessel for baking the lemon meringue bars, ensuring even cooking.
Parchment paper: Lining the baking dish to prevent sticking and make it easier to remove the bars.
Baking sheet: Placed under the baking dish to catch any spills and ensure even heat distribution.
Medium bowl: Used for mixing the crust ingredients until a crumbly dough forms.
Large bowl: Used for whisking together the lemon filling ingredients.
Electric hand mixer: Essential for beating the egg white to stiff peaks for the meringue.
Pastry bag: Used to pipe the meringue onto the lemon bars in neat dollops.
Fork: Used to poke the crust to prevent it from puffing up during baking.
Whisk: Used to combine the lemon filling ingredients smoothly.
Measuring cups: For accurately measuring the flour, sugar, and other ingredients.
Measuring spoons: For measuring smaller quantities like salt and lemon zest.
Zester: Used to obtain fresh lemon zest for the filling.
Knife: For slicing the cooled lemon meringue bars into individual servings.
Refrigerator: To chill the bars after baking, ensuring they set properly before serving.

How To Store and Freeze Lemon Meringue Bars

Let the lemon meringue bars cool completely to room temperature before storing or freezing.
To store, place the bars in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
For optimal freshness, place a layer of parchment paper between each layer of bars to prevent them from sticking together.
To freeze, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy reference.
Frozen lemon meringue bars can be stored for up to 2 months.
To thaw, remove the desired number of bars from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for about an hour.
Note: The meringue topping may lose some of its texture and become slightly softer after freezing and thawing, but the bars will still taste delicious.
For best results, consume the thawed bars within 2 days of thawing.

How To Reheat Leftover Lemon Meringue Bars

The best way to reheat leftover lemon meringue bars is to place them in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until the meringue is lightly browned and the lemon filling is warm.
If you prefer a softer meringue, you can cover the bars with foil while reheating to prevent the meringue from browning further.
Another option is to reheat the bars in the microwave, but this method may cause the crust to become soggy and the meringue to lose its texture. If using the microwave, heat the bars in 15-second intervals until warmed through.
For a crispy crust, you can reheat the bars in a toaster oven or under the broiler for a few minutes, keeping a close eye on them to prevent burning.
If you have stored the bars in the refrigerator, allow them to come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before reheating to ensure even warming.
Avoid reheating the bars multiple times, as this can cause the crust to become too dry and the lemon filling to lose its flavor and texture.
If you have leftover bars that have been stored in the freezer, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating using one of the above methods.

Random Fact About Lemon Meringue Bars

A unique aspect of this lemon meringue bars recipe is the combination of textures. The crust provides a buttery, crumbly base, the lemon filling offers a tangy, smooth middle layer, and the meringue adds a light, airy topping.

Is Making Lemon Meringue Bars at Home Economical?

When analyzing the cost-effectiveness of this lemon meringue bars recipe, it scores a solid 8 out of 10. The ingredients such as all-purpose flour, eggs, lemon juice, and sugar are relatively inexpensive and commonly found in most households. The most costly item is likely the unsalted butter, but even that is manageable. For a household of four, the approximate cost is around $10-$12 USD, making it a budget-friendly dessert option that delivers a delightful balance of tart and sweet flavors.

Are Lemon Meringue Bars Healthy or Unhealthy?

The lemon meringue bars recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy due to several factors:

High butter content in the crust, which contributes to saturated fat
Significant amount of sugar in both the lemon filling and meringue
Use of all-purpose flour, which is refined and lacks fiber
Relatively low in nutrients compared to the calorie content

However, this recipe can be enjoyed occasionally as part of a balanced diet.

To make the lemon meringue bars healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace half of the all-purpose flour in the crust with whole wheat flour or almond flour for added fiber and nutrients
Reduce the sugar content in the lemon filling by 25-50%, as the tartness of the lemon can help balance the sweetness
Use a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia in the meringue to cut down on added sugars
Incorporate more lemon zest into the filling for a stronger lemon flavor without increasing the sugar content
Experiment with using Greek yogurt or silken tofu in place of some of the butter in the crust to reduce saturated fat
Top the bars with fresh berries for added fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants

Editor's Thoughts on Lemon Meringue Bars

This lemon meringue bars recipe is a delightful twist on the classic pie, offering a perfect balance of tangy lemon filling and sweet, airy meringue. The buttery crust provides a sturdy base, while the lemon filling is refreshingly zesty. The meringue adds a light, fluffy texture that complements the tartness beautifully. The step-by-step instructions are clear and easy to follow, making it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers. Overall, it's a sophisticated yet approachable dessert that is sure to impress at any gathering.

Enhance Your Lemon Meringue Bars Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Imagine the crispiness of roasted asparagus with a hint of lemon zest to complement the tangy lemon meringue bars. The earthy flavors of the asparagus paired with the citrusy notes create a harmonious balance that will elevate your dessert experience.

Grilled Chicken with Herb Butter: Picture a succulent grilled chicken breast slathered in herb butter. The savory richness of the chicken contrasts beautifully with the sweet and tart flavors of the lemon meringue bars. This pairing is a delightful dance of flavors on your palate.

Mixed Berry Salad with Mint: Envision a vibrant mixed berry salad tossed with fresh mint leaves. The juicy berries and the refreshing mint provide a burst of freshness that complements the zesty lemon filling of the lemon meringue bars. This combination is a celebration of summer flavors.

Butternut Squash Soup: Think of a creamy butternut squash soup with a hint of nutmeg. The velvety texture and the sweet undertones of the soup create a comforting contrast to the tangy brightness of the lemon meringue bars. This pairing is a warm embrace for your taste buds.

Prosciutto-Wrapped Melon: Visualize prosciutto-wrapped melon with its salty-sweet combination. The savory prosciutto and the juicy melon offer a delightful counterpoint to the lemon meringue bars. This pairing is an elegant symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Lemon Meringue Bars

Key Lime Pie Bars: Craving a tangy twist? These Key Lime Pie Bars are a zesty delight with a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy key lime filling, and a dollop of whipped cream on top. Perfect for a summer treat!

Raspberry Lemonade Bars: Combine the refreshing flavors of raspberries and lemons in these Raspberry Lemonade Bars. A sweet and tart filling sits atop a buttery shortbread crust, finished with a dusting of powdered sugar.

Coconut Cream Bars: Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with these Coconut Cream Bars. A rich coconut custard filling rests on a crunchy graham cracker crust, topped with a layer of whipped cream and toasted coconut flakes.

Blueberry Cheesecake Bars: Indulge in the creamy goodness of Blueberry Cheesecake Bars. A luscious cheesecake filling swirled with fresh blueberries sits on a buttery graham cracker crust, making for a perfect dessert.

Chocolate Hazelnut Bars: For the chocolate lovers, these Chocolate Hazelnut Bars are a dream come true. A rich, fudgy chocolate filling with crunchy hazelnuts on a buttery shortbread crust, topped with a drizzle of chocolate ganache.

Suggested Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with Lemon Meringue Bars

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start any meal. Imagine cremini mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The mushroom caps are baked until tender, and the filling becomes a creamy, flavorful bite. Top with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and a touch of parsley for a beautiful presentation. These bite-sized treats are perfect for any gathering and are sure to impress your guests with their rich and satisfying taste.

Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer that brings together the fresh flavors of tomatoes, basil, and garlic on a crispy slice of toasted baguette. The tomato mixture is marinated with a touch of olive oil and balsamic vinegar, creating a vibrant and zesty topping. Each piece is then garnished with a drizzle of balsamic reduction and a sprinkle of sea salt. This simple yet elegant dish is perfect for any occasion, offering a burst of freshness in every bite.

Main Courses:

Grilled Herb-Crusted Salmon: Elevate your dinner with Grilled Herb-Crusted Salmon. This dish features a succulent salmon fillet marinated in a blend of fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon zest. The salmon is then grilled to perfection, creating a crispy, flavorful crust while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables and a drizzle of lemon butter sauce for a meal that's as nutritious as it is delicious.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Delight your taste buds with Stuffed Bell Peppers. These vibrant bell peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and tomatoes, seasoned with spices and herbs. Baked until the peppers are tender and the filling is perfectly cooked, this dish is a hearty and satisfying option for any dinner. Top with melted cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an extra touch of flavor.

Why trust this Lemon Meringue Bars Recipe:

This recipe for lemon meringue bars is a must-try for any dessert lover. The buttery crust provides a perfect foundation for the tangy lemon filling, while the light meringue topping adds a delightful texture contrast. Each step is carefully crafted to ensure a balanced and delicious treat. With easy-to-follow instructions and common ingredients like all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and lemon zest, you'll achieve bakery-quality results right at home. Trust this recipe for a crowd-pleasing dessert that combines classic flavors with a modern twist.

Want to share your experience making these tangy and sweet Lemon Meringue Bars? Join the discussion in the Baking and Desserts forum and let us know how they turned out!

FAQ:

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is always best for flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, bottled lemon juice will work. Just make sure it’s 100% pure lemon juice without any added sugars or preservatives.

How do I know when the lemon filling is set?

The lemon filling is set when it no longer jiggles in the center and looks mostly firm. It should have a slight wobble but not be liquidy. This usually takes about 25 minutes in the oven.

Can I make these lemon meringue bars ahead of time?

Yes, you can make them a day ahead. Just store them in the refrigerator, and they’ll be good to go. The meringue might lose a bit of its crispness, but they’ll still taste delicious.

What’s the best way to cut the bars cleanly?

For clean cuts, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between each cut. Chilling the bars in the fridge for a couple of hours before slicing also helps to get neat, even pieces.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely, you can double the recipe. Just use a larger baking dish, like a 9x13-inch pan, and keep an eye on the baking times as they might need to be adjusted slightly.