Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for the crust)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Extra powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang on the sides for easy removal. In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter, 1/4 cup powdered sugar, and all-purpose flour until the mixture forms a crumbly dough. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Bake the crust for 10 to 12 minutes or until it is just lightly golden around the edges.
- While the crust bakes, prepare the topping. In a large bowl, whisk the granulated sugar and eggs together until the mixture is pale and slightly frothy. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest. Fold in the almond flour and baking powder until just combined. The almond flour is the secret ingredient that gives these bars their signature macaron-like texture and nutty undertone.
- Once the crust is ready, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the lemon filling over the hot crust. Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 20 to 25 minutes. The top should be set and slightly crackled, much like the surface of a macaron. Avoid overbaking; the center should have a very slight jiggle when you gently shake the pan.
- Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. This step is crucial because the bars need time to set firmly. Once cooled, use the parchment paper handles to lift the entire block out of the pan. Dust the top generously with extra powdered sugar to enhance the “bright” and “delicious” appearance.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the block into 16 even squares. For clean cuts, wipe the knife with a damp cloth between each slice. Serve these lemon cookies lemon macarons bars at room temperature or chilled for a firmer texture.
- Cook Time: 45 minutes