Lemon Curd Blondie Bars

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that perfectly captures the essence of sunshine, look no further than these Lemon Curd Blondie Bars! These soft and gooey bars are bursting with bright lemon flavor, making them an absolute favorite in my kitchen. Whether you’re planning a family gathering or just need a quick dessert for a busy weeknight, these blondies will bring smiles all around.

What I love most about these Lemon Curd Blondie Bars is how simple they are to whip up. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can create a sweet indulgence that’s sure to impress. Plus, they’re perfect for spring and summer when fresh lemon flavors truly shine!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With only a few steps, you can have these delicious bars ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the zesty flavor and chewy texture.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a picnic or a cozy night in, these blondies fit right in.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake them in advance and store them for when those sweet cravings hit!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these Lemon Curd Blondie Bars is so enjoyable with simple ingredients that you probably already have on hand. Let’s gather what we need to create this scrumptious dessert!

For the Blondies

• 3/4 C unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 C granulated sugar
• 1/4 C light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp baking powder
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1/4 C Lemon curd
• 1 1/4 C all-purpose flour

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with different flavors and add-ins that suit your taste.

• Add Some Fruit: Toss in some blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.
• Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture.
• Swirl It Up: Create a marbled effect by swirling extra lemon curd into the batter before baking.
• Chocolate Lovers Unite: Mix in some white chocolate chips for an indulgent treat.

How to Make Lemon Curd Blondie Bars

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

To start off, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your blondies bake evenly from the moment you put them in. While the oven warms up, line an 8×8 baking pan with parchment paper. Leave some overhang on all four sides; this will make it super easy to lift your bars out later.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat together your softened butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until it becomes light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the batter, giving your blondies that delightful chewy texture. Once fluffy, mix in the eggs one at a time—this helps maintain that wonderful consistency!

Step 3: Add Flavorings

Next up is adding salt and baking powder; these are key players that balance the sweetness of the sugars. Stir in the lovely zest of one lemon for that refreshing taste! Then comes the star of our dish—add lemon curd gradually, one tablespoon at a time. Mix until just combined so you don’t overmix.

Step 4: Combine with Flour

Now it’s time to add our flour! Gently mix it in until fully incorporated. Make sure there are no streaks left—this ensures even baking throughout your bars.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Press the batter into your prepared pan to create an even layer. If it gets sticky, lightly grease your hands to help out. Now pop those beauties into your preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes until the edges turn golden brown. The center should still be soft—that’s what makes them gooey!

Step 6: Cool and Slice

Once baked, let them cool in the pan on a wire rack. After they’ve cooled down enough, use those handy parchment paper overhangs to lift them out. Cut into nine equal pieces using a sharp knife—trust me, serving size is important when they taste this good! Store any leftovers (if there are any!) in an airtight container.

Enjoy sharing these Lemon Curd Blondie Bars with friends and family—they’re sure to become a cherished recipe in your home too!

Pro Tips for Making Lemon Curd Blondie Bars

Making these Lemon Curd Blondie Bars is a delightful experience, and with a few simple tips, you can elevate your baking game!

• Use room-temperature ingredients: Ensuring your butter and eggs are at room temperature helps create a smoother batter, yielding softer, gooier blondies.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined will keep your blondies tender and prevent them from becoming dense. Overmixing can lead to a tougher texture.
• Check for doneness carefully: Since ovens can vary, start checking your blondies a few minutes before the 30-minute mark. They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center.
• Cool completely before cutting: Allowing your blondies to cool in the pan ensures they set properly, making it easier to cut them into perfect squares without crumbling.
• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add a splash of vanilla extract or even some poppy seeds for additional texture and flavor. These small tweaks can make your blondies uniquely yours!

How to Serve Lemon Curd Blondie Bars

Serving these bars is just as fun as making them! Their bright flavor makes them perfect for spring and summer gatherings.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds an elegant touch and enhances the presentation without overwhelming the lemon flavor.
• Fresh berries: Adding a handful of raspberries or blueberries not only looks beautiful but also contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the bars.

Side Dishes

• Whipped coconut cream: This dairy-free alternative provides a rich, creamy element that pairs wonderfully with the bright lemon flavor, making every bite decadent.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad complements the sweetness of the blondies. Consider using seasonal fruits like strawberries, kiwis, and oranges for a colorful mix!
• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream creates an indulgent experience when paired with warm blondies. The cold ice cream melts slightly against the warm bars for a delightful contrast.
• Lemon sorbet: For an extra citrus kick, serve alongside lemon sorbet. Its refreshing quality perfectly balances out the richness of the blondies.

Enjoy these tips and serving suggestions as you share these delightful Lemon Curd Blondie Bars with family and friends! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Lemon Curd Blondie Bars are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to whip up a delightful treat in advance. Whether you’re preparing for a gathering or just want a sweet snack on hand, these bars store beautifully!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the blondie bars to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate them for about a week.

Freezing

• Cut the blondies into squares before freezing.
• Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
• To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the blondie squares on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Heat for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave individual squares on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

If you have any questions about making these delicious bars, you’re in the right place!

Can I use store-bought lemon curd for Lemon Curd Blondie Bars?

Absolutely! Using store-bought lemon curd is a great way to save time while still enjoying the delicious flavor in your Lemon Curd Blondie Bars. Just ensure it’s a quality brand for the best results.

How can I customize my Lemon Curd Blondie Bars?

Feel free to add mix-ins like white chocolate chips or nuts to your Lemon Curd Blondie Bars. You can also experiment with different citrus zests for unique flavors—lime or orange could be lovely alternatives!

What should I do if my blondies are too gooey?

If your Lemon Curd Blondie Bars come out too gooey, it might be due to underbaking. Make sure to bake them until the edges are golden and firm. If they cool and still feel too soft, you can refrigerate them to help set further.

Can I make these blondies gluten-free?

Yes! To make gluten-free Lemon Curd Blondie Bars, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Lemon Curd Blondie Bars as much as I do! They’re bursting with sunshine and sweetness—perfect for brightening up any day. Enjoy every gooey bite and share them with friends and family; they’ll surely love this delightful treat. Happy baking!