Amazing and Simple Lemon Bars

Oh my goodness, I wait every year until Christmas to enjoy these bars! I don't know why I wait for December, as they are perfect all year long! These bars are amazingly cooked, and there are several shortcuts that make it simple and still completely delicious.

Why I like this recipe:

• No heating the lemon filling on the stove before adding to the crust. By adding it directly to the warm crust you eliminate the need for that step. 
• Lining the pan with parchment paper allows for easy removal, keeping the shape, and preventing the crust from sticking. 
• The crust melts in your mouth and is all mixed in a food processor in one easy step. 
• You can cut them into 1 inch bars, so this recipe will feed many. It is perfect for holiday parties.

Ingredients
Crust

• 1 3/4 cups flour
• 2/3 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch (can sub with more powdered sugar if you don't have this)
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 12 Tbsp unsalted butter, cut in pieces, keep cool

Filling 

• 4 eggs
• 1 1/3 cup sugar
• 3 Tbsp flour
• 2 tsp lemon zest
• 2/3 cup lemon juice (approximately 3-4 lemons)
• 1/3 cup milk
• 1/8 tsp salt

Take a 9 x 13 pan and lightly grease it so the parchment paper will stick. Line the pan with a piece of parchment paper with the corners cut about 2 inches, so it doesn't wrinkle in the pan. 

In a food processor mix the flour, powdered sugar, cornstarch, and salt together. Add the cool butter and blend for approximately 10 seconds, then pulsing together until the mixture turns a yellow color and has a crumb texture. Add the mixture to your lined pan, pressing down with your hands, then refrigerate for 30 minutes. 

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. 

Add the chilled crust to the oven and bake for 30 minutes. While the crust is cooking, prepare the filing by whisking together the eggs, sugar, and flour. Once combined add the lemon zest, lemon juice, milk, and salt until mixed well. 

Once the crust is done, reduce the oven to 325 degrees, and pour the filling directly on the warm crust in the oven. Cook until the top is firm, about 25 - 30 minutes. Once done, remove the pan to a wire rack and cool for 45 minutes until it has reached room temperature. Top with powdered sugar if desired and enjoy!