Zesty Lemon Meringue Magic Bars with a Crunchy Crust

These Zesty Lemon Meringue Magic Bars are a mouthwatering twist on traditional lemon meringue pie, served in an easy-to-make bar form. The dessert boasts a crunchy shortbread crust, bright and tangy lemon filling, and a luscious, fluffy meringue topping that will leave you craving more.

The combination of sweet and tart provides a refreshing contrast, making them ideal for spring gatherings or as a delightful treat any time of year. Plus, you can whip them up in no time, impressing family and friends with your baking skills!

Zesty Lemon Meringue Magic Bars with a Crunchy Crust

Serves: 12 Prep Time: 20 minutes Cooking Time: 25 minutes 25 minutes

Nutrition facts: 180 calories 8g fat

Rating: 5.0/5

( 1 voted )

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Ingredients

INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, powdered sugar, melted butter, and salt. Stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9x9 inch baking pan to form the crust. Bake for 10 minutes until lightly golden.
4. In another bowl, whisk together eggs, granulated sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and baking powder until smooth. Pour this mixture over the pre-baked crust.
5. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
6. While the filling is baking, prepare the meringue by beating egg whites and cream of tartar in a clean bowl until soft peaks form. Gradually add granulated sugar while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form and the mixture is glossy.
7. Spread the meringue over the baked lemon filling, ensuring it is spread all the way to the edges to prevent shrinking.
8. Bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the meringue is lightly browned and set. Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars. Enjoy!

Notes

Tip: For a spectacular presentation, top with additional lemon zest or thin lemon slices before serving.

To ensure your meringue whips up beautifully, make sure your mixing bowl and beaters are grease-free. For a twist, consider adding a touch of lime zest to the lemon filling for an extra citrus kick. If you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator to keep the meringue from weeping over time, but enjoy them within a couple of days for the best texture.