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Lemon desserts have captured the hearts and taste buds of many dessert enthusiasts, becoming a staple in bakeries and homes alike. Their bright, tangy flavor, which effortlessly balances sweetness with a refreshing zest, makes them a perfect choice for any occasion. Among the many beloved lemon treats, lemon bars stand out with their melt-in-your-mouth texture and vibrant flavor. However, what if you could elevate this classic dessert by combining it with the comforting familiarity of cookies? Enter the Lemon Bar Cookie Delight—a delightful fusion that promises to satisfy both cookie lovers and lemon aficionados.

Lemon Bar Cookie Delight with Fresh Flavor Boost

Indulge in this delightful Lemon Bar Cookie recipe that combines a buttery cookie base with a zesty lemon filling for the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. Easy to make and sure to impress, these treats are packed with fresh flavors from mint and basil, and finished with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and extra lemon zest. Perfect for any occasion, these refreshing squares are bound to be a hit! Enjoy them chilled or at room temperature.
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Ingredients
  

For the Lemon Cookie Base:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

½ cup powdered sugar

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Zest of 1 lemon

¼ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon baking powder

For the Lemon Filling:

2 large eggs

1 cup granulated sugar

¼ cup all-purpose flour

½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)

Zest of 1 lemon

¼ teaspoon turmeric powder (for color, optional)

For the Fresh Flavor Boost:

¼ cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped

1 tablespoon fresh basil, finely chopped

Extra lemon zest for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare the Cookie Base:

    - Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking pan.

      - In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.

        - Add the egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest; mix until well combined.

          - In another bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

            - Press the cookie dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.

              Make the Lemon Filling:

                - In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar until well combined.

                  - Add the flour, freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, and turmeric powder (if using); mix until smooth.

                    - Stir in the chopped fresh mint and basil for that vibrant flavor boost.

                      Combine and Bake:

                        - Pour the lemon filling over the cookie base in the baking pan, spreading it evenly.

                          - Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are lightly golden.

                            - Remove from oven and let it cool completely in the pan.

                              Serve and Enjoy:

                                - Once cooled, dust the top with extra powdered sugar and garnish with more lemon zest.

                                  - Slice into squares and serve chilled or at room temperature for a refreshing dessert.

                                    Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 16 squares