2 Ingredient Lemon Bars: Easy Recipe for a Refreshing Dessert

2 Ingredient Lemon Bars are a delightful treat that combines simplicity with a burst of citrus flavor, making them a favorite among dessert lovers. As someone who enjoys experimenting in the kitchen, I can confidently say that these bars are not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying to eat. The history of lemon bars dates back to the early 20th century, where they emerged as a popular dessert in American households, often served at gatherings and celebrations. What I love most about 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars is their perfect balance of tartness and sweetness, along with a creamy texture that melts in your mouth. Plus, with just two ingredients, they are a convenient option for those last-minute cravings or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try these 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars, you’ll understand why they have become a beloved classic!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best)
• 1 can (14 ounces) of sweetened condensed milk

Preparing the Mixture

1. **Gather Your Ingredients**: First things first, make sure you have all your ingredients ready. I like to set everything out on the counter so I can easily grab what I need as I go along. Freshly squeezed lemon juice really makes a difference in flavor, so if you have the time, squeeze those lemons! 2. **Juicing the Lemons**: If you’re using fresh lemons, you’ll need about 4-6 lemons to get 1 cup of juice. Cut the lemons in half and use a juicer or your hands to extract the juice. Make sure to strain the juice to remove any seeds or pulp. This will give your lemon bars a smooth texture. 3. **Mixing the Ingredients**: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, pour in the sweetened condensed milk. Then, add the freshly squeezed lemon juice. Using a whisk, mix the two ingredients together until they are fully combined. You want a smooth, creamy consistency without any lumps. This should take about 1-2 minutes of whisking.

Preparing the Baking Dish

4. **Preheat the Oven**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is an important step because you want your lemon bars to bake evenly. 5. **Grease the Baking Dish**: Take an 8×8 inch baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or butter. This will help prevent the lemon bars from sticking to the dish once they are baked. If you prefer, you can also line the dish with parchment paper for easier removal.

Baking the Lemon Bars

6. **Pour the Mixture into the Dish**: Once your mixture is ready, pour it into the greased baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the bottom of the dish. This will ensure that every bite of your lemon bars is deliciously tangy. 7. **Bake**: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they are done when the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking, as they can become tough if left in too long. 8. **Cool Down**: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. After that, I like to pop it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to chill. This helps the bars set up nicely and makes them easier to cut.

Assembling and Serving

9. **Cutting the Bars**: After your lemon bars have cooled and set, it’s time to cut them. Use a sharp knife to slice them into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference. If you lined the dish with parchment paper, you can lift the bars out for easier cutting. 10. **Dusting with Powdered Sugar**: For a finishing touch, I like to dust the tops of the lemon bars with powdered sugar. This adds a nice sweetness and makes them look extra appealing. Just use a fine mesh sieve to sprinkle the sugar evenly over the top. 11. **Serving**: Serve the lemon bars chilled or at room temperature. They make a perfect dessert for any occasion, whether it’s a summer picnic or a cozy family dinner. I love to pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful treat.

Storing Leftovers

12. **Storing**: If you have any leftovers (which is rare because they’re so delicious!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for about 3-5 days. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. 13. **Freezing**: You can also freeze these lemon bars if you want to save some for later. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.

Variations and Tips

14. **Add Zest**: For an extra burst of lemon flavor, consider adding 1-2 teaspoons of lemon zest to the mixture. This will enhance the citrusy taste and give your bars a lovely aroma. 15. **Experiment with Flavors**: If you want to switch things up, you can try adding different flavors. A teaspoon of vanilla extract can add a nice depth to the bars. Alternatively, you could mix in

Conclusion:

In summary, these 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars are an absolute must-try for anyone who loves a burst of citrusy goodness in their desserts. With just two simple ingredients, you can whip up a delightful treat that is both refreshing and satisfying. The bright, tangy flavor of the lemon combined with the creamy texture makes these bars a perfect addition to any gathering or a sweet indulgence for yourself. For serving suggestions, I recommend dusting the bars with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch, or pairing them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra layer of indulgence. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with variations by adding a hint of zest from the lemon peel or incorporating a splash of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor profile. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the joy of making these easy and delicious lemon bars. Once you do, I would love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any tweaks you made, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s spread the love for these 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars together! Happy baking!

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