Dulce de Leche Lemon Bars

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350ºfF). Line an 20x20 cm baking dish with parchment paper.

   Tip: Optional: grease the dish with butter or cooking spray for an extra layer of non-stick goodness.

2. 2

   In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, confectioner's sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

   Tip: Don't overwork the dough!

3. 3

   Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish.

   Tip: Make sure to get it into the corners!

4. 4

   Bake the crust for 15 minutes. While the crust is baking, prepare the dulce de leche and lemon filling.

   Tip: Keep an eye on it to prevent overbrowning.

5. 5

   In a small saucepan, combine the dulce de leche and lemon juice. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and turns a deep amber color.

   Tip: This will take about 10-15 minutes, so be patient!

6. 6

   In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, eggs, and lemon zest until well combined.

   Tip: Make sure to get all the sugar into the bowl!

7. 7

   Pour the dulce de leche and lemon mixture over the sugar mixture and whisk until smooth.

   Tip: Don't worry if it looks a bit lumpy!

8. 8

   Pour the lemon mixture over the baked crust and smooth the top.

   Tip: Use a spatula to spread it evenly!

9. 9

   Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden.

   Tip: Keep an eye on it to prevent overbrowning.

10. 10

    Remove from the oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.

    Tip: Let it cool completely to ensure the filling sets properly!

11. 11

    Cut into 8 bars and serve.

    Tip: Optional: dust with confectioner's sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness!