- **1/4 cup fresh lemon juice** (for tangy citrus notes)
- **1/4 cup all-purpose flour** (to thicken the filling)
- **1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves** (for an herby twist)
- **Powdered sugar** (for dusting, optional)
**Keywords to include in your recipe title or description:**
- Easy Lemon Thyme Bars
- Citrus Herb Dessert Recipe
- Lemon Thyme Dessert Squares
- Fresh Thyme Lemon Bars
- Zesty Lemon Bars with Thyme
This ingredient list and keyword suggestions will help your recipe stand out and attract readers searching for unique, flavorful desserts!
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Steps
# How to Make Lemon Thyme Bars: A Step-by-Step Guide
Lemon thyme bars are a delightful dessert that combines the zesty tang of lemons with the earthy aroma of thyme. Perfect for spring or summer gatherings, these bars are easy to make and guaranteed to impress. Follow this detailed guide to create your own batch of lemon thyme bars, complete with SEO-friendly tips and keyword-rich content.
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## **Ingredients for Lemon Thyme Bars**
To make these refreshing lemon thyme bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:
### **For the Crust:**
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
### **For the Lemon Filling:**
- 4 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
### **For Garnish (Optional):**
- Powdered sugar
- Fresh thyme sprigs
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## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
### **Step 1: Preheat the Oven**
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
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### **Step 2: Make the Crust**
1. In a food processor, combine the flour, powdered sugar, salt, and fresh thyme leaves. Pulse a few times to mix.
2. Add the cold, cubed butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan, ensuring it’s compact and smooth.
4. Bake the crust for 15-18 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
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### **Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Filling**
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar until smooth and slightly frothy.
2. Add the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and thyme leaves. Mix well.
3. Gradually add the flour, whisking until the mixture is fully combined and free of lumps.
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### **Step 4: Assemble and Bake**
1. Pour the lemon filling over the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
2. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are lightly golden.
3. Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan.
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### **Step 5: Chill and Garnish**
1. Once cooled, transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours. This step ensures the bars are firm and easy to slice.
2. Lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares or rectangles.
3. Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for an elegant touch.
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## **Tips for Perfect Lemon Thyme Bars**
- Use fresh lemons for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice won’t provide the same bright, tangy taste.
- Don’t overbake the filling. It should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center when you remove it from the oven.
- For a stronger thyme flavor, infuse the butter with thyme before making the crust.
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## **Serving and Storage**
Serve these lemon thyme bars at room temperature or chilled. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. These bars also freeze well—wrap them individually and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
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## **Why You’ll Love This Recipe**
These lemon thyme bars are a unique twist on classic lemon bars, offering a sophisticated flavor profile that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of citrus and herbs makes them a standout dessert that’s both refreshing and indulgent.
By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll create a dessert that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning. Share your creation on social media using hashtags like #LemonThymeBars and #CitrusDesserts to inspire others!