Lemon Glaze Shortbread Bars

Bright, buttery, and kissed with zesty lemon, these Lemon Glaze Shortbread Bars are the perfect balance of rich and refreshing. They come together with just a few simple ingredients and can be whipped up in no time, making them a fantastic treat for any occasion. The tender, crumbly shortbread base melts in your mouth, while the tangy lemon glaze on top adds a vibrant pop of flavor that will have you coming back for more. Whether you’re serving them at a casual get-together or just craving a sweet citrusy snack, these bars deliver a delightful twist on a classic shortbread.

Why It Works Every Time

Lemon Glaze Shortbread Bars are a foolproof dessert because they combine the best textures and flavors. The key is using softened unsalted butter which creates that signature melt-in-your-mouth crumb of shortbread. Powdered sugar blends smoothly into the dough, giving it a delicate sweetness without any grittiness. The addition of fresh lemon zest and juice infuses the bars with a bright, natural citrus aroma that cuts through the richness of the butter perfectly.

The glaze, made from powdered sugar and lemon juice, hardens slightly on top, adding just the right amount of tang and sweetness to balance each bite. Plus, the simple ingredient list means you don’t need any fancy equipment or hard-to-find items, making this recipe approachable for bakers of all levels. The bars also hold their shape well, making them easy to slice and serve. It’s a texture and flavor combo that’s hard to beat.

What You’ll Gather

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – the foundation for a rich, tender crumb
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar – for sweetness and fine texture in the dough
• 2 cups all-purpose flour – the structure that holds everything together
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – enhances all the flavors
• 1/4 cup lemon juice – fresh and bright, it adds essential citrus flavor
• Zest of 1 lemon – provides aromatic lemon oils for depth
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze) – smooth and sweet, perfect for the topping
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (for glaze) – balances the glaze with tartness

Recommended Tools

• 8×8-inch baking pan – to shape the bars perfectly
• Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients easily
• Electric mixer or hand whisk – to cream butter and sugar smoothly
• Microplane or fine grater – for zesting the lemon
• Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure ingredient accuracy
• Spatula – for scraping the bowl and spreading the dough evenly
• Wire rack – to cool the bars before glazing

Cooking Lemon Glaze Shortbread Bars: The Process

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar using an electric mixer or whisk until light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it creates a tender texture. Next, add the lemon zest and lemon juice, mixing until just combined. Gradually add the flour and salt, folding the mixture carefully until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the bars tender.

Step 2: Press and Bake

Line your 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to make removal easier. Transfer the dough to the pan and press it evenly into the bottom, smoothing the surface with the back of a spatula or your fingers. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden brown and the center is set but still soft to the touch.

Step 3: Create the Lemon Glaze

While the bars are baking, whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth and pourable. If the glaze is too thick, add a little more lemon juice, a teaspoon at a time. Once the bars are out of the oven and slightly cooled, pour the glaze evenly over the top. Let it set at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before slicing.

Step 4: Slice and Serve

Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the bars from the pan and place them on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to cut into squares or rectangles. Serve immediately or store for later—these bars are just as delicious the next day.

Fresh Takes Through the Year

• In spring, add a tablespoon of fresh thyme or basil to the dough for a herbal twist that complements the lemon.
• Summer calls for a topping of fresh berries or a drizzle of Orange Juice Cake syrup for extra fruity flair.
• Fall flavors come alive by mixing in a pinch of ground ginger or cinnamon for a warm, cozy note.
• Winter is perfect for adding a splash of vanilla extract in the glaze or sprinkling with chopped pistachios for color and crunch.

Testing Timeline

• Day 1: Bake and taste test to ensure the texture is buttery and the glaze is perfectly balanced.
• Day 2: Check for freshness and flavor depth—the bars often improve after a day as the lemon flavor melds.
• Day 3: Assess texture—bars should remain tender but slightly firmer for easy slicing.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

Store your Lemon Glaze Shortbread Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you refrigerate, allow the bars to come to room temperature before serving to bring back that tender crumb. These bars also freeze well—wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different citrus juice instead of lemon?

Absolutely! While lemon provides a classic tartness, you can substitute lime or even orange juice to give the bars a different but equally delightful citrus flavor. Just keep in mind that the glaze consistency may need slight adjustments depending on the juice’s thickness and sweetness.

How do I make sure the shortbread bars don’t crumble too much?

Using softened butter rather than melted butter helps create a tender but sturdy crumb. Also, avoid overmixing the dough once the flour is added, as this can develop gluten and make the bars tough. Pressing the dough firmly and evenly in the pan ensures they hold their shape well after baking.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

To make these bars gluten-free, swap the all-purpose flour for a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking blend. Be sure to choose one that contains xanthan gum or add a small amount yourself to help with structure. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

What’s the best way to get a smooth lemon glaze?

Use powdered sugar for the glaze because it dissolves easily and creates a silky texture. Slowly whisk in the lemon juice, adding just enough to reach a pourable consistency. If the glaze is too runny, add more powdered sugar; if too thick, add a little more juice. Straining the glaze through a fine mesh sieve before applying can also help remove any lumps.

You Might Also Like

• Coconut Shortbread Cookies – A tropical twist on classic shortbread with a chewy texture and rich flavor.
• Orange Juice Cake – Moist and zesty, this cake is another citrus favorite that’s easy to make and perfect for any season.

Save & Share

If you loved this recipe for Lemon Glaze Shortbread Bars, don’t forget to save it for later and share it with friends and family. These bars are as beautiful as they are delicious, making them a wonderful homemade gift or party treat. Snap a photo of your lemony creation and tag your favorite baking community to spread the joy!

Enjoy the bright, buttery goodness of these Lemon Glaze Shortbread Bars anytime you crave a little sunshine in your dessert. With their simple ingredients and irresistible flavor, they’re sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.

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