Whole Meyer Lemon Bars Recipe

 There’s something magical about the flavor of Meyer lemons. Smaller and sweeter than their standard lemon cousins, they offer a unique blend of bright citrus tang and floral sweetness. It’s no wonder they shine in desserts, especially in these Whole Meyer Lemon Bars. Using the entire lemon—not just the juice or zest—not only maximizes their flavor but creates a rich, tangy filling unlike any other. These bars are the perfect mix of tart and sweet with a buttery shortbread crust that melts in your mouth.

If you’re looking for a dessert to impress, Meyer Lemon Bars are it. Their sunny yellow filling is as gorgeous as it is delicious, making them as visually stunning as they are satisfying. Follow this step-by-step recipe to bring this treat to life.

Tips for Selecting the Best Meyer Lemons

When shopping for Meyer lemons, look for ones that are firm yet slightly tender to the touch. Their skin should be deep yellow with an almost orange hue, and they should feel heavy for their size. If possible, choose organic Meyer lemons since you’ll be using the whole fruit—including the peel—in this recipe, avoiding any concerns about waxes or pesticides.

Whole Meyer Lemon Bars Recipe

Ingredients

For the crust:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the filling:

• 2 medium Meyer lemons (washed and quartered, seeds removed)
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Using a stand mixer or a hand mixer, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until creamy and smooth.
3. Add the flour and salt, mixing until a crumbly dough forms. It should hold together when pressed.
4. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Use your fingers or the flat bottom of a measuring cup to create an even layer.
5. Bake the crust for 20 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden. Remove it from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the filling

1. While the crust bakes, prepare the filling. Add the quartered whole Meyer lemons (yes, peel and all) to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth.
2. Add the sugar, eggs, salt, and flour to the blender. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and glossy. The peel will give the filling extra depth and a slight texture.

Step 3: Assemble and bake

1. Pour the lemon filling over the pre-baked crust, spreading it out evenly.
2. Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 25–30 minutes, or until the filling is set and no longer jiggles in the center when gently shaken.

Step 4: Cool and garnish

1. Allow the bars to cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This helps the filling firm up and makes slicing clean and easy.
2. Once chilled, dust the top with powdered sugar for a classic finish. Use a sharp knife to slice into squares or rectangles.

Tips for Best Results

• Don’t skip the blending step! By blending the whole lemons thoroughly, you ensure the filling is smooth and free of stringy bits from the peel.
• Control the bitterness: For an even sweeter taste, scrape off any excessive white pith before blending the lemons.
• Prevent over-baking: Keep a close eye on your lemon bars while they bake. Overbaking can make the filling rubbery.

Serving Suggestions

These Whole Meyer Lemon Bars are delightful on their own but can be paired with fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. For a fancier presentation, garnish with thin slices of Meyer lemon or a sprig of fresh mint. They’re a perfect dessert for spring and summer gatherings, or anytime you need a burst of sunshine on your plate.

A Sweet Encouragement

There’s something so satisfying about making this dessert from scratch, especially when you bring out the bold, fresh flavor of Meyer lemons. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering or savoring a slice with your afternoon tea, these Whole Meyer Lemon Bars are sure to brighten your day. Go ahead, give them a try, and bring a ray of citrus sunshine to your kitchen!