Lemon cake bars

Here is a Lemon Cake Bars recipe written in detail, step by step, simple and reliable.

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Lemon Cake Bars

Ingredients

For the cake base

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs, room temperature

• 1 tablespoon lemon zest

• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the lemon glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 2 to 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

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Equipment

• 8 × 8 inch baking pan

• Mixing bowls

• Electric mixer or whisk

• Spatula

• Parchment paper (optional)

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Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the oven and pan

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Grease the baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

3. Set aside.

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Step 2: Mix dry ingredients

1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.

2. Set aside.

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Step 3: Cream butter and sugar

1. In a large mixing bowl, add softened butter and granulated sugar.

2. Beat on medium speed for 2 to 3 minutes until light and creamy.

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Step 4: Add eggs and flavoring

1. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

2. Mix in lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.

3. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.

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Step 5: Combine batter

1. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.

2. Mix on low speed just until combined.

3. Do not overmix.

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Step 6: Bake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.

2. Spread evenly with a spatula.

3. Bake for 22 to 26 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

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Step 7: Cool

1. Remove pan from oven.

2. Let the cake cool completely in the pan before glazing.

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Lemon Glaze

Step 8: Make glaze

1. In a small bowl, mix powdered sugar with lemon juice.

2. Stir until smooth and pourable.

3. Adjust consistency by adding more sugar or lemon juice if needed.

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Step 9: Glaze and slice

1. Pour glaze over the cooled cake.

2. Spread evenly.

3. Allow glaze to set for 15 to 20 minutes.

4. Cut into bars and serve.

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Tips

• For extra lemon flavor, poke small holes in the cake and spoon a little lemon juice over it before glazing.

• Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.