Last Updated on November 27, 2020
If you are wondering, “can freeze lemon bars?” The answer is yes. You can freeze them to prolong their shelf life for up to six months. Lemon bars store well in the freezer, and it is easy to do this. The method of freezing homemade lemon bars maintains the texture and flavor of this tangy and sweet dessert without having to undergo degradation or freezer burn in the long run.
Advantages Of Freezing Lemon Bars
The best thing about freezing lemon bars is that it is convenient. If you are running out of time preparing for desserts, you can thaw lemon bars and serve them to your guests as simple as that. It requires minimum effort to do, and it can last up to six months if appropriately sealed in the freezer. Likewise, lemon bars do not seem to lose its texture and flavor even if you defrost them. Since sugar and lemon act as preservatives, it extends their shelf life. Also, they make perfect treats on a hot day.
Tips For Freezing Homemade Lemon Bars
As mentioned before, the flavor of lemon bars will not be affected when you freeze them. It is essential to consider that it is best to prevent making a mess in freezing lemon bars and avoid the clumping of powdered sugar. You want to attain the best results, so always ensure that it cools entirely to avoid sticky and gooey lemon bars.
In addition to that, pre-freeze before wrapping them with cling wrap for the final freezing. So, please put the homemade lemon bars in a plastic container or flat layer on a baking sheet and let them freeze for two to three hours. Also, you can freeze them overnight if you want to. To prolong the homemade lemon bars’ freezer life longer, wrap individual or small portions in a cling wrap and pack them in a gallon freezer bag. Now, they can last up to six months.
Check this Amazing Lemon Zucchini Bread Recipe
Thawing Homemade Lemon Bars Properly
It is a simple process to do in thawing lemon bars, and you do not have to reheat them. Once you have taken the lemon bars out from the freezer, Unwrap them right away and put them in a serving tray or a plate. All you have to do is to thaw them for about thirty minutes since they soften quickly. You can also soften them a night before and unwrap them, and put them in the refrigerator. This way, it is softened and chilled at the same time. Finally, sprinkle powdered sugar on them, and it is ready to be served and enjoyed by your family and friends.
How To Make Homemade Lemon Bars
Ingredients Shortbread Crust
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 225g softened butter (at room temperature)
- 100g white sugar
- ¼ tsp salt
Ingredients Lemon Filling
- Eight pcs of egg yolks
- ¾ cup lemon juice
- 2 ½ tbsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 350g white sugar
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 115g butter
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Electric scale
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- 9×13 baking pan
Step by Step Instructions for Making Homemade Lemon Bars
Shortbread Crust
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, get your baking pan, grease it, and line with parchment paper.
Step 2
Grab a bowl, place the softened butter along with the flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the butter into the flour mixture or rub in the butter until it forms a coarse breadcrumb texture.
Step 3
In your prepared baking pan, transfer the dough, spread it, and firmly press it down until it creates an even layer. By using a fork, prick the crust all over.
Step 4
Position it in the oven, let it bake for 20 minutes until lightly golden.
Lemon Filling
Step 1
Take a large mixing bowl, combine the egg yolks, sugar, vanilla extract, lemon juice, lemon zest, butter. Whisk until blended.
Step 2
Mix in the flour and whisk until there are no clusters.
Step 3
Pull out the crust from the oven, pour in the filling, put it back in the range, and let it bake for 40 minutes.
Step 4
After baking, let it chill in the refrigerator for about 2 hours before cutting. Dust with powdered sugar, serve and enjoy!
Tips and Tricks for Homemade Lemon Bars
Pricking the shortbread with a fork allows the heat to enter evenly and prevents the dough from rising. Always use fresh lemons for an exceptional taste. Lining the baking pan helps you to remove the pastry from the pan easily.
Can You Freeze Lemon Bars? Homemade Lemon Bar Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Measuring Spoons
- Electric scale
- 9×13 baking pan
Ingredients
Shortbread Crust
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 225 g softened butter at room temperature
- 100 g white sugar
- ¼ tsp salt
Lemon Filling
- Eight pcs of egg yolks
- ¾ cup lemon juice
- 2 ½ tbsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 350 g white sugar
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 115 g butter
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
Shortbread Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, get your baking pan, grease it, and line with parchment paper.
- Grab a bowl, place the softened butter along with the flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the butter into the flour mixture or rub in the butter until it forms a coarse breadcrumb texture.
- In your prepared baking pan, transfer the dough, spread it, and firmly press it down until it creates an even layer. By using a fork, prick the crust all over.
- Position it in the oven, let it bake for 20 minutes until lightly golden.
Lemon Filling
- Take a large mixing bowl, combine the egg yolks, sugar, vanilla extract, lemon juice, lemon zest, butter. Whisk until blended.
- Mix in the flour and whisk until there are no clusters.
- Pull out the crust from the oven, pour in the filling, put it back in the range, and let it bake for 40 minutes.
- After baking, let it chill in the refrigerator for about 2 hours before cutting. Dust with powdered sugar, serve and enjoy!
Notes
Servings and Preparation Time
Zarah is an experienced pastry chef whose creations have delighted countless customers. With a passion for baking, Zarah has developed a unique style that combines classic techniques with modern flavors. Her desserts are consistently crafted with the finest ingredients, and her attention to detail is evident in the stunning and delectable results. Zarah has a wealth of experience in the pastry kitchen, and loves to share her knowledge with others. Whether it is teaching a class or creating a custom cake for a special occasion, Zarah is committed to making sure every customer is satisfied.
