Microwave Lemon Cream Bars
Indulge in these luscious Microwave Lemon Cream Bars, a delightful dessert that combines a buttery crust with a smooth and tangy lemon filling. This version is not only quicker to make than traditional baked lemon bars but also requires minimal prep time. Perfect for those who crave a refreshing treat without the hassle of an oven, these bars are sure to impress family and friends alike. Ideal for any occasion, whether it's a weeknight dessert or a special gathering!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
flour
1 cup (all-purpose, sifted)
powdered sugar
1/3 cup (sifted)
butter
1/2 cup (softened)
eggs
2 (large, room temperature)
sugar
1 cup (granulated)
cornstarch
1 1/2 teaspoons (for thickening)
baking powder
1/2 teaspoon (for leavening)
lemon rind
1 tablespoon (grated)
lemon juice
3 1/2 tablespoons (freshly squeezed)
powdered sugar
to garnish (for dusting)
Instructions
1
In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of flour and 1/3 cup of powdered sugar. Mix well.
2
In another bowl, microwave 1/2 cup of softened butter until completely melted. Stir the melted butter into the flour and sugar mixture until it becomes well blended and crumbly.
3
Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8-inch microwave-safe baking dish. Microwave the crust on high for 4 minutes until set. Remove and let it cool slightly.
4
In a mixing bowl, crack 2 eggs and add 1 cup of sugar. Beat the mixture until it becomes fluffy.
5
Add the remaining filling ingredients: 1 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, 1 tablespoon grated lemon rind, and 3 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice. Mix on low speed until combined and the cornstarch is completely dissolved, about 1 minute. Avoid overmixing.
6
Carefully pour the lemon filling over the cooled crust. Microwave on high for 3 1/2 to 4 1/2 minutes, or until the center starts to set, but it should still have a slight jiggle.
7
Allow the lemon bars to cool at room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
8
Before serving, dust with powdered sugar and cut into small 1 1/2-inch squares. For easy serving, place each piece in a paper or foil baking cup. Enjoy your delicious lemon bars!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Microwave Lemon Cream Bars?
Microwave Lemon Cream Bars are a quick dessert that combines a buttery, crumbly crust with a smooth and tangy lemon filling, all prepared using a microwave.
What ingredients are needed for the crust?
The crust is made from 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/3 cup of powdered sugar, and 1/2 cup of melted butter.
How long do I microwave the crust?
The crust should be microwaved on high for 4 minutes until it is set.
What type of baking dish should I use?
An 8-inch microwave-safe baking dish is required for this recipe.
How do I prepare the lemon filling?
Beat 2 eggs and 1 cup of granulated sugar until fluffy, then mix in cornstarch, baking powder, lemon rind, and lemon juice.
How much lemon juice is required?
The recipe calls for 3 1/2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice.
Is lemon rind necessary for the filling?
Yes, 1 tablespoon of grated lemon rind is used to provide an intense citrus flavor.
What is the purpose of cornstarch in the filling?
Cornstarch acts as a thickening agent to help the lemon cream set properly.
How long does the filling take to cook in the microwave?
The filling takes between 3 1/2 to 4 1/2 minutes on high, depending on your microwave's power.
How do I know when the lemon bars are done?
The center should start to set but still maintain a slight jiggle when moved.
Do I need to refrigerate the lemon bars?
Yes, they should be chilled in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to ensure they are fully set.
How should I garnish the bars?
Before serving, dust the top of the bars with powdered sugar.
What is the recommended serving size?
The bars are typically cut into small 1 1/2-inch squares.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Freshly squeezed lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, though bottled can be used in a pinch.
Should the eggs be at room temperature?
Yes, using room temperature eggs helps them incorporate better and become fluffier when beaten with sugar.
How do I avoid overmixing the filling?
Mix on low speed only until the ingredients are combined and the cornstarch is dissolved, which usually takes about 1 minute.
Can I use a different citrus fruit?
While this is a lemon recipe, you could theoretically substitute lime juice and rind for lime cream bars.
Is the crust supposed to be crumbly?
Yes, when you stir the melted butter into the flour and sugar, it should become well blended and crumbly before you press it into the dish.
Why must the crust be pressed firmly?
Pressing the crust firmly ensures it holds together as a solid base once microwaved.
How do I serve these for a party?
For easy serving and a professional look, place each individual square in a paper or foil baking cup.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
You can attempt to substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, though the texture of the crust may vary.
What if I don't have a microwave?
This specific recipe is optimized for the microwave; however, traditional lemon bars are usually baked in an oven at 350°F (175°C).
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Does the butter need to be softened before melting?
Softened butter melts more evenly in the microwave than cold butter.
Why is baking powder used?
Baking powder acts as a leavening agent to give the lemon filling a slightly lighter texture.
Can I double the recipe?
If doubling, use a larger 9x13 microwave-safe dish and adjust the microwave times accordingly, checking for doneness frequently.
Is it okay to use granulated sugar in the crust?
Powdered sugar is preferred for the crust because it results in a more tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture than granulated sugar.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 10 total ingredients, including the garnish.
Can I freeze these lemon bars?
Yes, these bars can be frozen for up to a month; thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
What is the total preparation time?
Prep time is minimal, with about 8-9 minutes of total microwave time and 1 hour of chilling.