Lemon Bars

There's nothing quite like sharing something special with a friend. It might be a tender memory, a fun time with lots of laughter or even the experience of dealing with one of life's struggles. I find it wonderful how you can never predict what will bond you to another person. So, here's one of those unexpected treasures in my life. I have a dear friend that I love whole heartily. He's a great husband, father, singer, writer, coach and is an inspiration to many young people in our community. He's funny, talented and has a deep faith that shows in everything he does. Now comes the interesting part of our friendship…it's theses lemon bars. 

About twice a year, I get a phone call or text message from my friend asking if I could make some of these lemon bars for a co-worker of his. He gives me lots of  lovely compliments about how she just loves 'em and asks how much I'll charge. Every time he reaches out, I tell him the same thing - yes, I'll make them and no, I don't want any money. Then we go back and forth deciding on the pickup date and time. 

Now, understand this, I have never met his co-worker and my son and I joke about what her initials are!  So this morning, after I put the finishing touches on my sweet treats, I packed them up in a box with pretty tissue paper and gave my friend a call…it was pick-up time. He was at my back door within 20 minutes. We exchanged a hug, smiles and started catching up. We munched on the extra lemon bars I set aside for a "taste test" while talking about our families, how much we missed seeing each other and promised to get together more often. Then again, if too many days get away from us, I know for sure, I have these lemon bars to bring us back together.

Lemon Bars

2 sticks unsalted butter, cut into pieces and at room temperature {plus more for the dish}
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup confectioner's sugar, plus more for dusting
Pinch of salt

4 large eggs
2 cups granulated sugar
6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
6 tablespoons fresh lemon juice - about 2 lemons
zest of one lemon

Crust

• Preheat oven to 350F. Line a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper and butter the foil.
• Whisk flour, confectioners' sugar and salt in a large bowl. Cut in the butter with fork or use your fingers to make a crumbly dough.
• Press into the prepared baking dish.  Bake 20 minutes, then transfer to a rack and let cool slightly.

Filling

• Mix eggs, sugar and flour in a bowl with a fork. 
• Mix in the lemon juice and zest. Pour filling over crust and bake 25 minutes.
• Transfer to a rack and let cool completely. Using parchment paper, life from baking pan. Dust with confectioners' sugar and cut into squares.