Lemon Bars

This is another old-fashioned recipe.  I think I've had this at every baby or bridal shower I've ever gone to.  I've made it twice this week, for two different occasions, and someone asked for a copy of the recipe, so I figured I might as well post it.

This recipe comes from The Better Homes and Gardens New Cook Book.  (It was new in 1991, but doesn't look so new now!)

Lemon Bars -

1/3 cup butter
1 cup sugar
1 cup flour
2 eggs
2 tablespoons flour
2 teaspoons finely shredded lemon peel
3 tablespoons lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
powdered sugar (optional)

Beat butter with an electric mixer on medium to high speed for 30 seconds.  Add 1/4 cup of sugar.  Beat until combined.  Beat in the 1 cup flour until crumbly.  Press into the bottom of an ungreased 9x9 pan.  Bake in a 350 degree F oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or just until golden.  Meanwhile, combine eggs, the remaining sugar, 2 tablespoons of flour, lemon peel, juice and baking powder.  Beat for 2 minutes or until thoroughly combined.  Pour over hot baked layer.  Bake in a 350 degree F oven 20 minutes more or until lightly browned around the edges and centre is set.  Cool on a wire rack.  If desired, sift powdered sugar over top  Cut into bars.  Makes 20.

Confession - I had three for breakfast yesterday!  Lemon is a fruit, right?