Martha Stewart is a household name in the United States and beyond for her impeccable taste and effortless style. She’s known for her iconic lemon bars, which are beloved by fans for their tangy, creamy, and buttery flavors. So how do you make Martha Stewart lemon bars? In this article, we’ll walk you through all the steps of making these decadent treats, from prepping your ingredients to baking and proper storage.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice looking to impress your friends and family, making Martha Stewart’s lemon bars is a must-try recipe. With just a few simple ingredients and some careful attention to detail, you can recreate these famous treats in your own kitchen. So grab your apron and preheat your oven, and let’s get started on making some mouthwatering lemon bars that are sure to be a hit with everyone.
Gather your ingredients and equipment
When it comes to making Martha Stewart’s lemon bars, the first step is to gather all the necessary ingredients and equipment. For ingredients, you will need room temperature unsalted butter, all-purpose flour, salt, granulated sugar, large eggs, fresh lemon juice, and confectioners’ sugar. Additionally, you will need a baking dish, parchment paper, a mixing bowl, an electric mixer, and a spatula.
Make sure to have all the ingredients measured and prepped before starting the recipe. It’s best to have everything on hand to avoid any last-minute trips to the grocery store. As for equipment, use a 9×13 inch baking dish and line it with parchment paper. This will ensure easy removal and prevent any sticking of the lemon bars. Additionally, using an electric mixer will make the mixing process smoother, but a hand whisk can be used as well. Overall, having all the necessary equipment and ingredients ready beforehand will make the process of making Martha Stewart’s lemon bars much more manageable.
Preparing the crust for Martha Stewart Lemon Bars
The crust is the base of any good lemon bar, and Martha Stewart’s recipe for lemon bars is no exception. The first step in preparing the crust for Martha Stewart Lemon Bars is to preheat your oven to 350°F. Then, butter or line a 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
To make the crust, start by mixing 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of confectioners’ sugar, and a pinch of salt in a medium bowl. Then, using a pastry blender or a food processor, cut in 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) of cold unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the mixture into the prepared baking pan and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until golden brown. Once the crust is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for at least 10 minutes before adding the lemon filling.
Making the lemon filling
To make the lemon filling for Martha Stewart’s Lemon Bars, you will need to combine freshly squeezed lemon juice, zest, sugar, eggs, and flour. Begin by whisking together the sugar and flour in a mixing bowl. Then, add in the eggs one at a time, whisking after each addition to ensure everything is well combined. Stir in the lemon juice and zest, and continue to whisk until the mixture is smooth.
Once the filling is ready, pour it over the partially baked crust and return the pan to the oven to bake for an additional 25 minutes. The lemon filling will be set and slightly golden on top when it’s done. After cooling to room temperature, cut the bars into squares, dust with powdered sugar, and serve. The tangy and sweet flavors of the lemon combined with the buttery shortbread crust make for a delicious and refreshing dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
Assembling and baking your Martha Stewart Lemon Bars
After preparing the crust and the filling, it’s time to assemble and bake the lemon bars. Start by pouring the filling mixture onto the crust and ensure that it’s evenly spread across the surface. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are lightly golden.
Once the lemon bars are done baking, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack for at least 15-20 minutes. Once they have cooled, you can either enjoy them as is or dust them with powdered sugar for a more decorative touch. Cut the bars into equal-sized pieces and serve them as a refreshing dessert or as a tasty treat at any gathering or event. Follow these simple steps and you can make Martha Stewart’s classic lemon bars to share with your friends and family.
Tips for perfectly baked lemon bars every time
Achieving perfectly baked lemon bars can be a challenge, but with a few tips in mind, you can ensure that your dessert comes out delicious every time. Firstly, it’s important to use fresh ingredients, especially when it comes to the lemon juice and zest. This ensures that the lemon flavor will be bright and vibrant, which is crucial to the success of this recipe.
Secondly, be sure to line your baking dish with parchment paper. This not only makes it easier to remove and cut the bars, but it also ensures that the bottom won’t stick or burn. Lastly, keep an eye on the baking time and temperature. Overbaking can result in a dry and crumbly texture, while underbaking will leave the bars gooey and undercooked. By following these tips, you’ll be on your way to making perfectly baked Martha Stewart lemon bars every time.
Serving and storing your lemon bars
Serving the perfect lemon bars is all about the presentation. Once you have baked them, let them cool down completely before slicing them into bite-sized pieces. You can dust them with powdered sugar or garnish them with a sprig of fresh mint to add more color to your dish. If you want to make them look fancier, place each slice on a small dessert plate and drizzle them with a homemade raspberry or strawberry sauce.
When it comes to storing your lemon bars, the key is to keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. Proper storage can help preserve their taste and texture for up to five days. However, if you want to extend their shelf life, you can place them in the fridge for up to ten days or freeze them for up to three months. Make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before storing them in the freezer. To thaw, simply let them sit at room temperature for a few hours before serving.
Variations and flavor twists on Martha Stewart Lemon Bars.
Variations and flavor twists on Martha Stewart Lemon Bars can add a new dimension to this already delicious dessert. One way to add a twist is to infuse the lemon bars with herbs. Adding fresh rosemary or thyme to the lemon filling can provide a savory note that complements the sweetness of the bars. Another variation is to incorporate different fruits into the recipe. For example, adding blueberries and raspberries to the lemon bars can produce a beautiful and fruity dessert that is perfect for summer.
Moreover, one can also try variations in the crust. Substituting graham crackers for the traditional shortbread crust adds a crunchy texture and elevates the flavor profile of the bars. Moreover, for those who prefer a gluten-free option, substituting the flour with almond flour can make the bars not only healthy but also tasty. Experimenting with different variations can make the classic lemon bar recipe more exciting and suitable for different tastes and preferences.
Final Words
To make Martha Stewart Lemon Bars, you will require some basic ingredients like flour, butter, eggs, sugar, lemon juice, and zest. The recipe is quite simple and easy to follow, and it yields delicious and tangy lemon bars that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
Additionally, lemon bars are perfect for any occasion, such as a party, get-together, or simply when you want to indulge in something sweet and refreshing. By following Martha Stewart’s recipe, you can make these delightful lemon bars effortlessly and impress your guests with your baking skills. So, next time you want to try something new, give this recipe a shot and enjoy the mouthwatering flavor of these classic lemon bars!