Tangy Surprise Shortbread

Discover the perfect balance of buttery richness and citrusy zing with this irresistible Tangy Surprise Shortbread recipe! These tender, melt-in-your-mouth bars feature a delicate shortbread crust infused with a hint of lemon zest, topped with a luscious homemade lemon filling, and finished with a crisp, crumbly topping for the ultimate texture trifecta. Enhanced by a splash of vanilla and a touch of kosher salt, every bite delivers a harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. With a simple yet elegant preparation, this recipe is ideal for afternoon tea, potlucks, or dessert tables. Serve these delightful lemon shortbread bars as a refreshing treat and watch them disappear!

Nutriscore Rating: 43/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:35 mins

Total Time:55 mins

Servings: 16

Ingredients

• 226 grams unsalted butter
• 100 grams granulated sugar
• 240 grams all-purpose flour
• 30 grams cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest
• 60 milliliters lemon juice
• 50 grams powdered sugar
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 160°C (325°F) and line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides for easier removal.

Step 2

In a medium mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar using a hand or stand mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3

Add the lemon zest and mix until evenly incorporated.

Step 4

In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and kosher salt.

Step 5

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until combined and the dough comes together.

Step 6

Transfer half of the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, pressing it down firmly to form an even layer. Reserve the remaining half of the dough in the refrigerator.

Step 7

Bake the base layer in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until lightly golden on the edges. Remove and allow to cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 8

In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, whisk together the yolks, lemon juice, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Cook while whisking constantly until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 9

Spread the lemon mixture evenly over the baked shortbread base.

Step 10

Crumble the reserved dough over the top of the lemon layer, creating a crumbly topping.

Step 11

Return the baking pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-22 minutes, or until the topping is lightly golden.

Step 12

Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

Step 13

Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the shortbread out of the pan. Cut into 16 squares and serve.

Step 14

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer storage.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(749.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3349.1

Total Fat 205.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 116.6g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.0g
Cholesterol 869.4mg	0%
Sodium 646.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 367.7g	0%
Dietary Fiber 7.7g	0%
Total Sugars 151.7g
Protein 32.2g	0%

Vitamin D 36.6IU	0%
Calcium 142.2mg	0%
Iron 12.3mg	0%
Potassium 428.1mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 53.6%

Protein: 3.7%

Carbs: 42.7%