A B.A.B. Kitchen Original Inspired by “Yours Truly” by Abby Jimenez
There’s something magical about a dessert that’s both sweet and tart—comforting yet refreshingly bold. That’s exactly why we chose lemon bars as our first official treat in the B.A.B. Kitchen. Inspired by Yours Truly by Abby Jimenez, this recipe brings the book’s themes of second chances, heartfelt notes, and fresh starts to life… one bite at a time.
If you’re reading along with us this month, you know that lemons play a symbolic role throughout the story. So, what better way to celebrate than with a dessert that’s as full of personality as Dr. Briana and as warm as Jacob’s handwritten letters?
Ready to bake some love into your day? Here’s how it’s done.
Step 1: Make the Shortbread Crust
We’re skipping traditional flour-based crusts and going straight for a shortcut that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. You’ll pulse shortbread cookies (yes, the kind you secretly snack on while reading) into fine crumbs. Then, mix in melted butter and a touch of spice to create a buttery base that’s pressed into a baking dish and baked until golden.
This crust is the cozy foundation for what’s to come—kind of like that first email in a growing friendship.
Step 2: Whip Up the Zesty Lemon Filling
While your crust cools, whisk together sugar and eggs until smooth. Then, stir in freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest. The zest is the secret weapon—it brings a brightness that balances the sweetness perfectly. After that, sift in flour and a little baking powder to thicken it all up into a luscious lemon custard.
Pour it gently over the cooled crust. Spread evenly, because this filling deserves to be in every bite.
Step 3: Bake, Chill, and Slice
Pop the whole thing back into the oven until the top sets and the edges turn slightly golden. Once it’s done, cool it completely (resist the urge to slice too soon!) and then refrigerate for a couple hours so the bars firm up into perfect slices.
When you’re ready, dust the top with powdered sugar, slice into neat squares or rectangles, and serve chilled. These bars are the perfect sweet finish to any day—or a delicious way to elevate your next B.A.B. event.
Want the Printable Recipe Card? 🍋
The full printable version of the Love You Zest the Way You Are Lemon Bars recipe card is available exclusively to Elite Members of The Bond Maker community. It’s beautifully designed and easy to follow—perfect to tuck into your recipe box or bring to your next book-inspired gathering.
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