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When preparing your Zesty Lemon Chill Bars, the key to success lies in the right combination of ingredients and careful baking. Once you have whisked together the filling, you’ll pour it onto your pre-baked crust. It's essential to bake the bars until the filling is set, but not fully firm. This results in a creamy texture that melts in your mouth.

Chilled Bars with Lemon

Discover the perfect summer dessert with Zesty Lemon Chill Bars! These easy-to-make bars blend a buttery graham cracker crust with a creamy, tangy lemon filling, creating a delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors. Ideal for picnics, barbecues, or a light finish to any meal, these treats are quick to prepare and sure to impress. Enjoy the vibrant taste of fresh lemons and the satisfying crunch of the crust for a refreshing summer indulgence.
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Ingredients
  

1 cup graham cracker crumbs

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk

1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice

Zest of 2 lemons

3 large egg yolks

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon salt

Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Base:

    - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

      - In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until well combined.

        - Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 8x8 inch (20x20 cm) baking dish to form an even layer. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from oven and let cool slightly.

          Make the Lemon Filling:

            - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, egg yolks, vanilla extract, and salt. Make sure there are no lumps and everything is well combined.

              Combine and Bake:

                - Pour the lemon mixture over the cooled graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.

                  Cool Down:

                    - Remove the baking dish from the oven and allow it to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully chilled and firm.

                      Slice and Serve:

                        - Once the bars are fully chilled, lift them out of the baking dish using the edges of the parchment paper (if lined). Cut into squares or rectangles as desired.

                          - Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired before serving.

                            Enjoy these refreshing Zesty Lemon Chill Bars as a delightful dessert that's perfect for warm days!

                              Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 3 hours | Servings: 9-12