Air Fryer Lemon Bars –. These Air Fryer Lemon Bars are made with a shortbread crust and topped with a smooth and creamy lemon curd.

Air Fryer Lemon Bars
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Air Fryer Lemon Bars With Shortbread Crust is amazing! They are the perfect spring and summer desserts. They are so lemony and prepared with a shortbread crust that does fantastic in the air fryer!

If you love an excellent lemon dessert, this is the recipe to make for you!

Lemon bars are so easy to make in the air fryer and are so good! The lemon filling is served on a crispy shortbread crust, and it’s incredible!

I love it when Meyer lemons are in season, and this is the PERFECT dessert to use them in. You only need a few pantries or refrigerated items, and it is perfect for a quick dessert or treat for the entire family.

If you are looking for even more delicious air fryer dessert recipes, some of my favorites are AIR FRYER COPYCAT KRISPY KREME DONUTS, AIR FRYER COPYCAT DOUBLETREE COOKIES, and AIR FRYER COPYCAT HOSTESS CUPCAKES.

Homemade Air Fryer Lemon Bars

These lemon bars are a great summertime treat. They’re easy to make and even better to eat! The shortbread crust gives them an extra sweet flavor complemented by the tart taste of fresh lemons. Once you’ve made these, they’ll be your new favorite dessert!

If you want a refreshing twist on a classic treat, try this recipe for lemon bars with a shortbread crust. We all love lemon pie, but sometimes changing things up is nice, so we enjoy something different without sacrificing quality or flavor. These treats have just the sweetness from the shortbread and tartness from real lemons, making them perfect for any occasion!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

You’ll love this Air Fryer Lemon Bars recipe for several delightful reasons. First and foremost, the air fryer provides a unique way to bake these classic treats, ensuring a perfectly crisp crust and a deliciously creamy, tangy lemon filling. The controlled and consistent heat of the air fryer means these bars cook evenly, giving you a desirable texture that’s hard to achieve with traditional oven baking.

Secondly, the convenience of using an air fryer can’t be overstated. It typically preheats faster than an oven and can cook these lemon bars in less time, making this recipe perfect for when you want a quick yet impressive dessert. This method is especially beneficial for those with smaller kitchens or without a conventional oven.

Moreover, lemon bars made in an air fryer are ideal for small-batch baking. If you’re looking to satisfy a sweet craving without making a large batch, this recipe is perfect. The lemon filling in this recipe is bright and zesty, striking the perfect balance with the sweetness and buttery flavor of the shortbread crust.

Lastly, these lemon bars are incredibly versatile. They’re perfect for various occasions, from casual get-togethers to formal gatherings. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the world of air frying, you’ll find this recipe straightforward, with a delicious payoff sure to please any crowd. The ease, flavor, and texture of these Air Fryer Lemon Bars make them a must-try for any dessert lover.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Lemon Bars

Embark on a zesty baking adventure with Air Fryer Lemon Bars, a delightful treat that combines simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component is essential in creating a harmonious blend of sweet, tart, and buttery flavors, perfect for a refreshing dessert.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Lemon Bars With Shortbread Crust

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

  • All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base of the crust, giving it structure and a tender crumb.
  • Powdered Sugar: Used in the crust and topping, it adds a delicate sweetness and contributes to the smooth texture of the bars.
  • Butter: Provides richness and a flaky texture to the crust, a key component for its buttery taste.
  • Eggs: Essential for the lemon filling, they help to set the mixture and add a creamy texture.
  • Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the lemon filling, balancing the tartness of the lemon juice.
  • Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice is crucial for that bright, tart flavor which is the star of the show in lemon bars.
  • Lemon Zest: Adds an extra punch of lemony flavor, enhancing the zesty taste of the bars.
  • Salt: A pinch in the crust offsets the sweetness and enhances the flavor profile.
  • Cornstarch: Helps to thicken the lemon filling, ensuring it sets properly and creates a smooth texture.

With these ingredients, you can create delectable Air Fryer Lemon Bars that are sure to be a hit, whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them as a personal treat.

How To Make Air Fryer Lemon Bars

Making Lemon Bars in an Air Fryer is a delightful way to enjoy this classic dessert. Here’s how to do it:

Air Fryer Lemon Bars With Shortbread Crust

Start by making the crust. Mix the flour, powdered sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a large bowl. Then add the butter and mix well until the mixture is coarse crumbs.

Spread the mixture into a sprayed pan and press firmly into an even layer over the pan’s bottom and slightly up on the sides. Place into the refrigerator for about 20-30 minutes until firmed up. Then place into the air fryer for 15-20 minutes at 320 degrees F, air fryer setting, until golden brown.

How To Make The Lemon Bar Filling

How To Make The Lemon Filling:

While the shortbread is cooking, fill the lemon in a large bowl. Mix the eggs, sugar, flour, lemon zest, lemon juice, milk, and salt.

Place the filling into the crust and bake until the filling is firm to the touch. About 10-12 minutes at 300 degrees F, air fryer setting.

Air Fryer Lemon Bars With Shortbread Crust

Recipe Variations

Air Fryer Lemon Bars are wonderfully adaptable, and you can easily modify the recipe to suit different tastes and preferences. Here are some delicious variations to try:

  • Lime Bars: Swap out lemon juice and zest for lime to create a tangy, tropical twist on the classic lemon bar.
  • Orange Bars: Use fresh orange juice and zest for a sweeter, more fragrant version of the traditional lemon bar.
  • Lemon-Blueberry Bars: Add a layer of fresh or frozen blueberries over the crust before pouring in the lemon mixture for a burst of berry flavor.
  • Almond Lemon Bars: Mix a half cup of finely ground almonds into the crust mixture for a nutty flavor and extra crunch.
  • Coconut Lemon Bars: Sprinkle shredded coconut on top of the lemon filling before air frying for a tropical coconut twist.
  • Ginger Lemon Bars: Add a teaspoon of finely grated fresh ginger into the lemon filling for a zesty, spicy kick.
  • Gluten-Free Lemon Bars: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend in both the crust and filling for a gluten-free option.
  • Vegan Lemon Bars: Use vegan butter in the crust and a vegan egg substitute in the filling to make vegan-friendly lemon bars.
  • Cream Cheese Lemon Bars: Add a layer of cream cheese mixture (cream cheese blended with a bit of sugar and an egg) under the lemon filling for a creamy, tangy layer.
  • Lemon Curd Bars: Top the baked lemon bars with a layer of homemade or store-bought lemon curd for double the lemon delight.

These variations on Air Fryer Lemon Bars allow you to get creative and serve up a dessert that caters to different palates while still enjoying the convenience and efficiency of air frying.

Air Fryer Lemon Bars

Pro Tips

Creating perfect Air Fryer Lemon Bars requires some know-how. Here are some pro tips to help you make them even more delicious:

  • Ensure Even Thickness of Crust: When pressing the crust mixture into the pan, make sure it’s even. An uneven crust can lead to inconsistent baking and texture.
  • Chill the Crust: After pressing the crust into the pan, consider chilling it in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes before air frying. This helps the crust hold its shape and prevents it from puffing up too much.
  • Sift the Powdered Sugar: For the smoothest filling, sift the powdered sugar to avoid lumps. This creates a more refined, silky texture in the lemon layer.
  • Use Fresh Lemon Juice: For the best flavor, use freshly squeezed lemon juice rather than bottled. The freshness makes a significant difference in taste.
  • Don’t Overfill: Avoid overfilling the pan with lemon filling. Overfilling can cause it to spill during cooking or make it difficult to set properly.
  • Check for Doneness Correctly: The filling should be set and not jiggle too much when you move the pan. Use a toothpick or a knife to check if it’s done – it should come out mostly clean.
  • Let Them Cool Completely: Allow the lemon bars to cool completely in the pan before attempting to cut them. This ensures they set properly and makes for cleaner slices.
  • Use a Sharp Knife for Slicing: For neat, clean slices, use a sharp knife and clean it between each cut. This helps to ensure each piece looks as good as it tastes.
  • Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
  • Dust with Powdered Sugar Before Serving: For an extra touch of sweetness and a professional look, dust the bars with powdered sugar right before serving.

By following these tips, your Air Fryer Lemon Bars will turn out beautifully crisp and flaky on the outside with a deliciously tart and creamy filling inside. They’re sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them!

Air Fryer Lemon Bars With Shortbread Crust

Faq’s

Can I Make Lemon Bars in Any Air Fryer? Yes, you can make lemon bars in any air fryer. Just ensure the baking dish you use fits comfortably in your air fryer basket.

Do I Need to Preheat My Air Fryer? Yes, preheating your air fryer is recommended for even cooking and achieving the desired texture in the lemon bars.

How Do I Know When the Lemon Bars Are Done? The edges should be lightly browned, and the center set but still slightly wobbly. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean.

Can I Use a Different Type of Citrus? Absolutely! You can substitute lemon juice and zest with lime, orange, or even a combination of citrus for a different flavor.

Why Is My Lemon Filling Not Setting? This could be due to undercooking or too much liquid in the filling. Ensure you measure ingredients accurately and cook until just set.

How Long Should I Let the Lemon Bars Cool? Let them cool completely at room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to fully set before slicing.

Can I Double the Recipe? Yes, but you may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.

How Do I Store Leftover Lemon Bars? Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Can I Freeze Lemon Bars? Yes, you can freeze them for up to three months. Wrap them well and thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

How Can I Ensure a Crisp Crust? Avoid adding too much butter to the crust, and make sure to pre-bake it until it’s slightly golden before adding the filling.

Air Fryer Lemon Bars

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Air Fryer Lemon Bars

Air Fryer Lemon Bars

5 from 5 votes
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 24 Servings

Description

There is nothing better for a spring or summer dessert than a homemade lemon bar prepared with a shortbread crust. The air fryer does an amazing job at making these.

Ingredients 

Shortbread Crust:

  • 1 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2/3 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 3/4 cup butter, room temperature, unsalted
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

Lemon Filling:

  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons lemon zest
  • 2/3 cup lemon juice
  • 1/3 cup whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt

Instructions

  • Start by making the crust. In a large bowl, mix the flour, powdered sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Then add the butter mix well until the mixture is coarse crumbs.
  • Spread the mixture into a sprayed pan and press firmly into an even layer over the pan's bottom and slightly up on the sides. Place into the refrigerator for about 20-30 minutes until firmed up. Then place into the air fryer for 15-20 minutes at 320 degrees F, air fryer setting, until golden brown.
  • Making The Lemon Filling: While the shortbread is cooking, make the lemon filling in a large bowl, mix the eggs, sugar, flour, mix in the lemon zest, lemon juice, milk, and salt.
  • Place the filling into the crust, bake until the filling is firm to the touch. About 10-12 minutes at 300 degrees F, air fryer setting.
  • Sprinkle with powdered sugar right before serving.
  • Plate, serve, and enjoy!

Equipment

  • Air Fryer, Air Fryer Basket or Air Fryer Oven
  • Baking Pan, Thin Pan works best

Nutrition

Serving: 1ServingCalories: 164kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 2gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.4gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0.2gCholesterol: 47mgSodium: 205mgPotassium: 37mgFiber: 0.3gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 228IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 13mgIron: 1mg

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