1. Prepare the Crust
- Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter pieces. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press into Pan: Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the baking pan to form the crust. If you like, you can line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal later.
- Pre-bake: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the pan in the air fryer basket and bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, or until it is lightly golden. Remove from the air fryer and let it cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Lemon Filling
- Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, lemon juice, flour, baking powder, and lemon zest until smooth and well combined.
- Pour Over Crust: Pour the lemon filling over the partially baked crust, spreading it evenly.
3. Air Fry the Lemon Bars
- Cook: Return the pan to the air fryer basket. Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is slightly golden. The filling should be firm but still have a slight jiggle in the center.
- Cool: Allow the lemon bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. They will set further as they cool.
4. Serve
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: Once the bars are fully cooled, dust with powdered sugar if desired.
- Cut and Enjoy: Cut into squares and serve. Enjoy the tangy and sweet flavors of your homemade lemon bars!
Tips for Success
- Cool Completely: Letting the bars cool completely before cutting ensures they set properly and make cleaner cuts.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter filling, you can increase the sugar by a couple of tablespoons. Conversely, for a tarter flavor, reduce the sugar slightly.
- Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice and zest provide the best flavor, so avoid bottled lemon juice if possible.
Variations
- Blueberry Lemon Bars: Swirl in some fresh blueberries into the lemon filling before air frying.
- Ginger Lemon Bars: Add a teaspoon of ground ginger to the crust for a spiced twist.
Enjoy your perfectly tangy and sweet Air Fryer Lemon Bars—whether you’re making them for the first time or perfecting your tried-and-true recipe!