Sugar Mommas’ Lipsmackin Lemon Bars

1 c. flour ¼ c. sugar ⅛ tsp. salt ½ c .butter 1 tsp. lemon zest, finely grated

3 Tbsp. flour 1 c. sugar ½ Tbsp. baking powder 3 large eggs ½ Tbsp. lemon zest, finely grated ½ c. fresh lemon juice, strained 2 Tbsp. confectioners’ sugar

Preheat oven to 350ºF. Line the bottom of one 8x8 square pan with parchment paper or foil horizontally and then vertically. Make sure to have overhang. You will use these pieces to lift & remove the lemon squares after baking.

In a large bowl sift together flour, sugar, and salt. Pour the dry mixture into the Cuisinart. Cut the butter into small pieces. Add the pieces of butter and lemon zest to the Cuisinart. Pulse until the mixture is crumbly and forms a loose ball. Remove from Cuisinart. Press crust into the bottom of square pan. Bake 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned. Remove from heat. Do not overcook.

In a small bowl, combine flour, sugar and baking powder. Set aside. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs. Beat in the sugar mixture. Add the zest and fold in the lemon juice. Blend until smooth. Pour the mixture over the crust. Bake 20-25 minutes or until the filling is firm. Remove from heat. Cool. Gently lift parchment or foil of out the pan and cut into squares. Sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar. Watch them disappear!

Decorate your plate with lavender, violet pansies or other summer flower. Sprinkle lavender dusting sugar on top of the lemon bars if you so choose.