Luscious Lemon Bars

Classic lemon squares are always a popular dessert at teas, luncheons, and  showers.  As an added bonus, you can make them ahead and freeze for up to one month.

Ingredients:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, divided
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup cold butter, cut into pieces
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• Powdered sugar

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°. Line bottom and sides of a 13- x 9-inch pan with heavy-duty aluminum foil or parchment paper, allowing 2 to 3 inches to extend over sides; lightly grease foil.
2. Stir together 2 cups flour and 1/2 cup powdered sugar. Cut in butter using a pastry blender or fork until crumbly. Press mixture onto bottom of prepared pan.
3. Bake at 350° for 20 to 25 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. Meanwhile, whisk eggs in a large bowl until smooth; whisk in granulated sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir together baking powder and remaining 1/4 cup flour; whisk into egg mixture. Pour mixture over hot baked crust.
5. Bake at 350° for 25 minutes or until filling is set. Let cool in pan on a wire rack 30 minutes. Lift from pan, using foil sides as handles. Cool completely on a wire rack (about 30 minutes). Remove foil, and cut into bars; sprinkle with powdered sugar.

    
Note:
To make ahead, prepare as directed. Cover tightly, and freeze up to 1 month.

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