Why You’ll Love Lemon Pistachio Bars Recipe
These lemon pistachio bars combine the vibrant flavor of fresh lemons with the rich, earthy taste of pistachios, making them a standout dessert. The buttery crust provides a perfect base for the smooth, tart lemon filling, while the pistachios add both texture and a hint of savory nuttiness. The bright citrus flavor is perfectly balanced with the subtle sweetness, creating a refreshing dessert that’s light but satisfying. They’re easy to make and come together in no time, yet look and taste like a gourmet treat!
Ingredients
For the crust:
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1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
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¼ cup granulated sugar
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¼ tsp salt
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½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
For the filling:
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2 large eggs
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1 cup granulated sugar
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¼ cup all-purpose flour
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¼ tsp baking powder
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½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
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Zest of 1 lemon
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½ cup shelled pistachios, chopped
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Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang for easy removal.
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Make the crust: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
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Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan, forming an even layer. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
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Make the filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, flour, and baking powder until smooth. Add the lemon juice and lemon zest and whisk to combine.
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Stir in the chopped pistachios, then pour the filling over the cooled crust.
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Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly golden around the edges.
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Let the bars cool completely in the pan before removing by lifting the parchment paper overhang. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar (if desired) and cut into squares or rectangles.
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Serve and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 9-12 bars (depending on size)
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Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Variations
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Different nuts: If you don’t have pistachios, try using other nuts like almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts for a different flavor and texture.
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Add coconut: For an extra tropical twist, you can fold in a handful of shredded coconut to the filling or sprinkle some on top before baking.
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Lemon-lime bars: For a citrusy variation, combine lemon and lime juice in the filling for a tangy, zesty twist.
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Add white chocolate: For a creamy, sweet contrast, sprinkle some white chocolate chips into the filling or on top before baking.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can also be refrigerated for up to 1 week if you prefer them chilled.
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Freezing: These bars freeze well! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Fresh lemon juice provides a brighter, more vibrant flavor, but you can substitute bottled lemon juice if necessary. Just be sure to use a good quality one.
2. Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these bars gluten-free.
3. Can I use salted pistachios for this recipe?
It’s best to use unsalted pistachios, as the saltiness of salted pistachios can interfere with the balance of sweetness and tartness in the bars.
4. How can I make the crust more buttery?
If you want an even richer crust, you can increase the amount of butter by 1-2 tablespoons for a more buttery flavor and texture.
5. Can I add more lemon zest to the filling?
Absolutely! Feel free to add more lemon zest if you prefer a stronger lemon flavor.
6. How can I make these bars dairy-free?
To make these bars dairy-free, substitute the butter with a plant-based butter alternative and use a dairy-free substitute for the egg (such as a flax egg or aquafaba).
7. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, these bars can be made a day or two ahead of time. They hold up well and are actually even better after they’ve had time to set in the fridge.
8. Can I make these bars in a larger pan?
If you use a larger pan (such as a 9×13-inch), you will need to adjust the baking time and check for doneness. The bars will be thinner and may bake faster.
9. Can I use a food processor to make the crust?
Yes, you can use a food processor to combine the crust ingredients quickly. Just pulse until the butter is well incorporated, then press the mixture into the pan.
10. Can I add a glaze on top of these bars?
Yes, a simple lemon glaze made with powdered sugar and lemon juice can be drizzled on top for extra sweetness and a more decorative finish.
Conclusion
Lemon pistachio bars are a refreshing, delightful dessert that combines the tang of lemon with the rich, nutty flavor of pistachios. These bars are perfect for spring and summer gatherings, holiday parties, or anytime you’re craving a sweet, citrusy treat. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, they offer the perfect balance of flavors and textures in every bite. Try them today for a sophisticated and delicious dessert everyone will love!
Lemon Pistachio Bars
These Lemon Pistachio Bars combine the zesty freshness of lemon with the rich, nutty flavor of pistachios in a perfectly balanced dessert. With a buttery shortbread crust and a smooth, tangy lemon filling, these bars are a delightful treat for any occasion. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, they’re perfect for a refreshing dessert!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 9-12 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- For the crust:
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- ¼ tsp salt
- For the filling:
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp lemon zest (about 2 lemons)
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup pistachios, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the softened butter and mix until the dough is crumbly and comes together. Press the dough into the bottom of a greased 8×8-inch baking pan. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside. - Make the filling:
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs and granulated sugar until well combined. Add the flour, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, and whisk until smooth. Stir in the chopped pistachios. - Bake the bars:
Pour the lemon pistachio filling over the warm crust. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the filling is set and lightly golden around the edges. Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares. - Garnish and serve:
Once cooled, sprinkle extra chopped pistachios on top for added texture and flavor. You can also dust the bars with powdered sugar for a finishing touch.
Notes
- Make ahead: These bars can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. They also freeze well for up to a month.
- Pistachios: If you prefer, you can use salted pistachios for a little contrast in flavor, but unsalted pistachios are generally recommended to keep the bars balanced.