Go Back
+ servings

honey lemon bars

These sweet and tangy honey lemon bars feature a whole wheat shortbread crust, fresh lemon zest, and honey for a lighter yet delicious dessert treat that balances sweetness and tartness wonderfully.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 120 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 0.375 cup white whole wheat flour
  • 0.375 cup all purpose flour
  • 0.25 cup light brown sugar not packed
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 teaspoons lemon zest grated
  • 0.5 teaspoon baking powder
  • 0.25 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter cut into bits and chilled
  • 1 tablespoon 0% Greek yogurt
  • 0.333 cup honey
  • 3 large eggs lightly beaten
  • 2 tablespoons white whole wheat flour
  • 0.125 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest grated
  • 5 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon powdered sugar for dusting on top

Instructions
 

Preparation Steps

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F.
  • Prepare an 8-inch square glass or ceramic baking dish by lightly spraying the inside with baking spray.
  • Cut 2 sheets of parchment paper 15 x 15 inches each, fold them in half so they are 7.5 x 15 inches to make them sturdier.
  • Line the pan with the 2 long sheets of parchment paper placed perpendicular to each other, allowing overhang to use as handles for removing the bars after baking.
  • Spray the inside of the parchment with baking spray.
  • In a food processor, combine the flours, brown sugar, cornstarch, lemon zest, baking powder, and salt; process until well combined.
  • Add the chilled butter and Greek yogurt to the flour mixture and pulse about a dozen times. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan, including up the sides about 1/4 inch to contain the filling.
  • Bake the crust at 350°F until evenly browned, about 30 minutes. Turn off the oven and cool the crust on a rack for at least 20 minutes.
  • Increase oven temperature to 325°F once crust is cooled.
  • Prepare the filling by whisking the eggs, honey, and lemon zest in a medium bowl. Add the flour 1 tablespoon at a time and salt, mixing well after each addition.
  • Stir in the fresh lemon juice and pour the filling over the cooled crust.
  • Bake at 325°F for 22 to 25 minutes until the filling is set.
  • Cool completely before lifting the bars out of the pan using the parchment handles. For best texture, refrigerate overnight.
  • Cut into 12 squares using a clean hot knife, cleaning the knife between slices.
  • Dust with powdered sugar just before serving.

Notes

These bars are great as a refreshing dessert or snack. Refrigerate leftovers and enjoy chilled for a firmer texture. Perfect for spring and summer occasions.

Nutrition

Serving: 200gCalories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 120gProtein: 120gFat: 120gSaturated Fat: 120gPolyunsaturated Fat: 120gMonounsaturated Fat: 120gTrans Fat: 120gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 120mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 120gSugar: 120gVitamin A: 120IUVitamin C: 120mgCalcium: 120mgIron: 120mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!