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.
4tablespoonsunsalted buttercut into bits and chilled
1tablespoon0% Greek yogurt
0.333cuphoney
3largeeggslightly beaten
2tablespoonswhite whole wheat flour
0.125teaspoonkosher salt
1teaspoonlemon zestgrated
5tablespoonsfresh lemon juice
1tablespoonpowdered sugarfor 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.