Today is National Lemon Bar Day

Today is National Lemon Bar day, so today I'm sharing a recipe for lemon bars with you and some fun lemon bar and lemon facts. I really do enjoy lemon bars - the butter cookie bottom and soft, tart lemon topping . . . a wonderful treat! Let's start though with some fun information - did you know . . .

• Shortbread originated in Scotland in the 12th century.
• In 1492 Christopher Columbus brought lemon seeds from Europe to the New World.
• In the 19th century Lemon curd originated in England.
• One lemon contains about 31 mg of vitamin C, which is 51% of the recommended daily dose.
• Lemons may help with weight loss, reduce heart and kidney disease risks, and assist with digestive issues. But don’t drink too much because it can cause tooth decay or abdominal cramps.
• A lemon tree can produce up to 600 pounds of lemons in a year!
• An average lemon has about eight to 10 seeds inside.
• An average lemon contains about three tablespoons of juice.
• Lemons contain high levels of vitamin C. However, these sour fruits also contain fiber and plant compounds which could lower some risk factors for heart disease.

You will find more fun facts and information at this link.

My favorite recipe is straight from the Better Homes and Gardens cook book I received when I was first married - nearly 31 years ago! Sometimes the older recipes are truly the best ones . . . so here it is, and enjoy!

Ingredients -

• 6 Tablespoons of butter
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 cup flour
• 2 eggs
• 3/4 cups sugar
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1/4 teaspoon finely shredded lemon peel
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder

Directions -

• grease or spray an 8x8x2 baking pan
• beat butter for 30 seconds, add 1/4 cup sugar and beat until fluffy
• stir in 1 cup flour
• pat dough into bottom of pan
• bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes
• meanwhile, beat eggs, add remaining sugar, flour, lemon peel, lemon juice and baking powder
• beat 3 minutes or until slightly thickened
• pour over baked cookie bottom
• bake in a 350 degree oven for 25 - 30 minutes or until a golden brown around the edges and center is set
• you can sprinkle with powdered sugar if you like
• cool
• cut into squares
• enjoy!

These lemon bars are pretty simple to make and are perfect for a special dinner or to take to someone who is shut in to brighten their day! Have your grandchildren help you make these bars and while they bake, involve them in making cards, then take the cards and a plate of the lemon squares to someone you know who needs to have their day brightened. If we provide opportunities in involve our grandchildren in activities where they are showing kindness, concern and love for others, they will grow up to be gracious and caring people! Have fun!