How do you know when lemon chess bars are done baking?

The edges should be lightly golden and the center should look mostly set with a little bit of jiggle. The filling will continue to firm up as the bars cool and chill.

Why are my chess bars runny?

Runny bars usually mean they need more chilling time or were slightly underbaked . Make sure the bars cool completely and chill in the refrigerator for several hours before slicing.

Why did my lemon chess bars crack on top?

Cracks can happen if the bars bake too long or if the oven temperature is too high . A little bit of cracking is normal and doesn’t affect the flavor - if it bothers you, you can just dust the top with powdered sugar before serving.

Can I make lemon chess bars ahead of time?

Yes! These bars are actually a great make-ahead dessert because they need time to chill and set. They can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Can I make lemon chess bars without lemonade mix?

If you prefer, absolutely, you can replace the lemonade mix with fresh lemon juice and lemon zest for a more natural citrus flavor. You also might want to add a few tablespoons of sugar.

What can I help you find?

All the latest

featured at