Lemon Cookie Bars

Lemon Cookie Bars are chewy, zesty and sweet. Their bright and zingy flavor always brightens my day. 

This recipe is the best lemon cookie bars that you have ever had and are perfect for picnics, bake sales, baby showers, family reunions, potlucks or when just whenever you feel like biting into their delicious taste.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lemon Cookie Bars

How many lemons do I need to make this recipe

You only need one large lemon to make this lemon cookie bar recipe.  However if you can only find small lemons in your area I would recommend grabbing two lemons.  To get your lemons ready to juice, roll them gently on the counter a few times back and forth with the palm of your hand pressing slightly down.  It helps get the juice flowing inside the lemon which makes it easier to squeeze.  Since you are using the zest of the lemon in your recipe be sure to wash your lemon well. 

What is lemon zest

Lemon zest is the outside rind of the lemon that is grated finely.  Lemon zest has a strong lemon flavor and can be slightly bitter. Using the zest in your recipes really gives the lemon flavor of your cookie bars a big punch.  Did you know that you freeze and refrigerate lemon zest?  Well, I’m here to tell you that you sure can.  I store my lemon zest in snack size containers or freezer bags, in one tablespoon portions to help make baking with lemon zest easier when I don’t have a fresh lemon on hand. 

How can I store Lemon Cookie Bars

Store your cookie bars on the counter in an airtight container for up to five days. I personally find that cookie bars store better in the pan that they were baked in but make sure that you cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap. You can also freeze these lemon cookie bars for up to 6 months in a freezer safe container or freezer bag.  When I am freezing the cookie bars I prefer to freeze them without the frosting. To thaw your cookie bars simply store in the fridge or on the counter overnight. They should keep for up to five days once thawed. 

Lemon Cookie Bars 

1 ½ cups flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

½ cup butter, room temperature

4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature

¾ cup sugar

1 egg

1 tablespoon lemon juice

One teaspoon lemon zest

1 teaspoon lemon extract

For the frosting:

½ cup butter, room temperature

1 tablespoon milk

One tablespoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon lemon extract

2 cups powdered sugar, sifted

Yellow food coloring (optional)

How To Make 

:1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Prepare an 8×8 baking pan by greasing with nonstick cooking spray.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

3. In a separate bowl, beat together the butter, cream cheese, and sugar until creamy and well combined.

4. Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and lemon extract. Beat until combined.

5. Add the flour mixture and beat until smooth. Spread the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

6. To make the frosting, beat together the butter, milk, lemon juice, lemon extract and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Add food coloring to tint icing if desired.

7. Allow the cookie bars to cool completely, then spread the frosting over the top of the cookie bars. Cut into 9 equal pieces before serving.

Cooking Tips

• Use a glass baking dish if you want a softer texture. I like a little crunch to my bars so I use a metal pan. 
• Use fresh lemon juice.  Fresh lemon juice makes for a brighter and better tasting cookie bar for this recipe. 

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