Description
These Lemon Blueberry Shortbread Bars are a delightful combination of buttery shortbread with fresh blueberries and bright lemon zest. Perfectly golden and slightly crisp on the edges with a tender crumb, they provide a sweet and tangy treat ideal for dessert or a snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Shortbread Base
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Filling
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which sets the base for a tender shortbread.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in vanilla extract and lemon zest until fully combined, infusing the dough with aromatic flavors.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and salt to evenly distribute the salt and remove lumps.
- Mix Dry into Wet: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overworking the dough.
- Fold in Blueberries: Carefully fold in fresh blueberries, taking care not to crush them to maintain their shape and juiciness.
- Spread Dough in Pan: Evenly spread the dough into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the surface with a spatula to ensure uniform baking.
- Bake the Bars: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating doneness.
- Cool and Serve: Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares to allow them to set properly.
Notes
- Use room temperature butter for easier creaming and better texture.
- Fresh blueberries are recommended; if frozen, thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture.
- For an extra lemony flavor, you can add a tablespoon of lemon juice to the batter.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- These bars can be served plain or dusted with powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
