Ricotta Lemon Bars Zesty Spring (Print)

Creamy ricotta and bright lemon create tender, sweet bars with a buttery crust and citrusy finish.

# Ingredients:

→ Crust

01 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
02 - 1/3 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
04 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

→ Ricotta Lemon Filling

05 - 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
06 - 3 large eggs
07 - 3/4 cup granulated sugar
08 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
09 - Zest of 2 lemons
10 - 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
11 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
12 - Pinch of salt

→ For Serving

13 - Powdered sugar, for dusting

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring sufficient overhang for easy removal of the finished product.
02 - In a medium mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Incorporate the cold, cubed unsalted butter using a pastry blender or fork until the mixture achieves a coarse crumb consistency resembling wet sand.
03 - Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the crust. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly.
04 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk the ricotta cheese until it is smooth and creamy. Add the eggs, granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, lemon zest, freshly squeezed lemon juice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Whisk vigorously until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and the filling is uniformly creamy.
05 - Carefully pour the prepared ricotta lemon filling over the partially baked crust, spreading it evenly to create a smooth surface.
06 - Return the assembled pan to the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 22 minutes. The filling should be set around the edges but still have a slight wobble in the center.
07 - Allow the bars to cool completely to room temperature on a wire rack. Once cooled, refrigerate the bars for a minimum of 2 hours to allow them to set fully before slicing.
08 - Just before serving, lightly dust the chilled ricotta lemon bars with powdered sugar for a decorative and sweet finish.

# Pro Tips:

01 -
  • Uses basic ingredients from your fridge and pantry
  • Delivers a creamy texture and real citrus flavor while staying easy to cut
  • Tastes even better chilled and can be made ahead for stress-free entertaining
02 -
  • Packed with protein thanks to the ricotta cheese
  • Ideal make-ahead dessert that holds up beautifully in the fridge
  • Lower in fat than classic lemon bars but just as indulgent in flavor
03 -
  • Always whisk the ricotta until smooth to avoid any graininess in the filling
  • Line your pan thoroughly for easy removal and the cleanest squares
  • Chilling the bars fully before cutting is not optional as it guarantees neat slices and a creamy center

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