Lemon Bars with Powdered Sugar | Easy 30-Min Comfort Classic

Q: Can I substitute bottled lemon juice for fresh lemon juice in lemon bars?

Yes, bottled lemon juice works in a pinch, but freshly squeezed lemon juice delivers a brighter, more vibrant flavor . Fresh juice also has natural citrus oils that give lemon bars a fresher, more aromatic finish. If flavor is your priority, fresh lemons are worth it.

Q: How do you know when lemon bars are fully baked and set?

Lemon bars are done when the edges are set and the center has only a slight jiggle . The filling should look firm but not dry or cracked. Overbaking can cause the custard to become rubbery or split, so it’s best to pull them while the center is just set.

Q: Do lemon bars need to be refrigerated?

Yes. Because lemon bars contain an egg-based custard filling , they should be stored in the refrigerator. Keeping them chilled preserves both food safety and texture , and they actually taste better once fully cooled and set.

Q: Can I make lemon bars ahead of time?

Absolutely — lemon bars are an excellent make-ahead dessert . In fact, their flavor often improves after a day in the fridge. You can bake them 1–3 days in advance and dust with powdered sugar just before serving.

Question 1

Can I substitute bottled lemon juice for fresh lemon juice in lemon bars?

Accepted Answer

Yes, bottled lemon juice works in a pinch, but freshly squeezed lemon juice delivers a brighter, more vibrant flavor. Fresh juice also has natural citrus oils that give lemon bars a fresher, more aromatic finish. If flavor is your priority, fresh lemons are worth it.

Question 2

How do you know when lemon bars are fully baked and set?

Accepted Answer

Lemon bars are done when the edges are set and the center has only a slight jiggle. The filling should look firm but not dry or cracked. Overbaking can cause the custard to become rubbery or split, so it’s best to pull them while the center is just set.

Question 3

Do lemon bars need to be refrigerated?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Because lemon bars contain an egg-based custard filling, they should be stored in the refrigerator. Keeping them chilled preserves both food safety and texture, and they actually taste better once fully cooled and set.

Question 4

Why did my lemon bars turn out runny?

Accepted Answer

Runny lemon bars usually happen due to:
- Underbaking
- Too much lemon juice
- Not enough flour in the filling
- Cutting before they fully cooled
For best results, let bars cool completely and chill for at least 2 hours before slicing.

Question 5

Can I make lemon bars ahead of time?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely — lemon bars are an excellent make-ahead dessert. In fact, their flavor often improves after a day in the fridge. You can bake them 1–3 days in advance and dust with powdered sugar just before serving.

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