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Fresh Zesty Blueberry Lemon Bars Recipe Easy Homemade Shortbread Crust

blueberry lemon bars - featured image

These fresh zesty blueberry lemon bars feature a buttery shortbread crust paired with a tangy lemon and juicy blueberry filling, perfect for brunches, garden parties, or summer dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 1/2 cups (225g) fresh blueberries
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup (32g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 medium lemons)
  • 2 tsp lemon zest
  • Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer.
  2. Add flour and salt to the butter mixture. Stir gently until just combined; avoid overmixing. Dough will be crumbly but should hold together when pressed.
  3. Press the shortbread dough evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch pan using the bottom of a measuring cup for a smooth surface.
  4. Bake crust for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden around edges. Let cool slightly.
  5. In a medium bowl, whisk eggs and sugar until pale and slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
  6. Add flour, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the egg mixture. Stir until fully incorporated and smooth.
  7. Gently fold in fresh blueberries, lightly crushing about half the berries and leaving the rest whole.
  8. Pour filling evenly over the warm shortbread crust and spread with a spatula if needed.
  9. Bake for 25-30 minutes until filling is set but slightly jiggly in the center and edges start to turn golden.
  10. Remove from oven and let cool completely at room temperature. Chill bars for at least 2 hours before cutting.
  11. Dust with powdered sugar before serving. Slice into squares and enjoy.

Notes

Use fresh lemons and fresh blueberries for best flavor. Press crust firmly for a crisp base. Watch baking time to avoid overbaking the filling. Chill bars before slicing for clean cuts. For gluten-free, substitute flour with gluten-free blend; for dairy-free, use plant-based butter substitute.

Nutrition

Keywords: blueberry lemon bars, lemon bars, blueberry dessert, shortbread crust, summer dessert, easy baking, homemade bars