Introduction
White Chocolate Lemon Frost Bars are the ultimate balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet. These bars combine the smooth richness of white chocolate with the bright, zesty flavor of fresh lemon. The result is a decadent, melt-in-your-mouth dessert that’s perfect for spring, summer, or any time you crave a refreshing sweet treat.
The base is soft and tender, almost cookie-like, and it’s topped with a luscious lemon frosting studded with melted white chocolate. Each bite delivers a perfect harmony of citrusy zing and sweet creaminess. These bars are easy to make, visually stunning, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for bake sales, holiday gatherings, or weekend family treats.
What sets these bars apart is their elegant flavor combination—light, tangy, and indulgent without being overly heavy. With simple ingredients and step-by-step preparation, anyone can make a dessert that tastes like it came from a gourmet bakery. Here’s everything you need to know to bake the perfect White Chocolate Lemon Frost Bars.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
For the Bar Base
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Lemon Frost
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup white chocolate, melted
Optional Garnish
- Lemon zest curls
- White chocolate drizzle
- Fresh berries (strawberries or raspberries)
Preparation
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease the parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Bar Base
In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until a soft dough forms.
Step 4: Bake the Base
Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until lightly golden and set in the center. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely before adding frosting.
Step 5: Prepare the Lemon Frosting
While the base cools, make the frosting. In a bowl, beat together softened butter, powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth and creamy. Fold in the melted white chocolate. Adjust consistency with more powdered sugar for thickness or a touch of milk for a thinner glaze.
Step 6: Frost the Bars
Spread the lemon frosting evenly over the cooled bar base. Smooth the top with a spatula. Optionally, garnish with extra lemon zest, white chocolate drizzle, or fresh berries.
Step 7: Chill and Serve
Place the frosted bars in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set the frosting. Cut into squares or rectangles using a sharp knife for clean edges.
Variation
- Blueberry Lemon Frost Bars: Fold ½ cup fresh blueberries into the bar base before baking.
- White Chocolate Raspberry Bars: Swirl raspberry puree into the frosting for a fruity twist.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the bar base.
- Extra Lemon Zest: Add an extra teaspoon of zest for a brighter, tangier flavor.
- Mini Bars: Bake in a 9×9-inch pan and cut into smaller bite-sized squares for parties.
COOKING Note
Ensure the bar base is completely cooled before adding frosting; otherwise, the frosting will melt and slide off. For extra smooth frosting, melt the white chocolate gently over a double boiler to prevent clumping.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled for a refreshing, firm texture.
- Pair with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a perfect afternoon treat.
- Decorate with fresh berries for a festive presentation.
- Great for potlucks, brunches, or holiday dessert tables.
Tips
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best tangy flavor.
- Avoid overbaking the base to keep it soft and chewy.
- White chocolate should be high-quality for best flavor.
- Use a serrated knife for clean slices.
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information (Approx. per bar, 12 servings)
Calories: 270
Protein: 3g
Sodium: 110mg
FAQs
1. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, make the bars and frosting a day ahead. Store in the refrigerator and frost before serving for best results.
2. Can I use white chocolate chips instead of melted chocolate?
Yes, melt them gently before adding to the frosting.
3. Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, freeze unfrosted bars for up to 2 months. Frost after thawing.
4. Can I make them dairy-free?
Substitute butter with vegan butter and use dairy-free white chocolate.
5. How do I get a brighter lemon flavor?
Use extra lemon zest and a touch of lemon extract for more punch.
Conclusion
White Chocolate Lemon Frost Bars are a stunning, delicious, and easy-to-make dessert that balances tangy lemon with creamy white chocolate. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are moist, flavorful, and visually appealing. With a soft, tender base and luscious frosting, they’re sure to impress family, friends, or guests. Whether served as a light summer dessert or a centerpiece for your next brunch, these bars deliver a perfect harmony of sweet and citrusy flavors in every bite.
Print
White Chocolate Lemon Frost Bars
Ingredients
For the Bar Base
-
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
-
1 cup granulated sugar
-
2 large eggs
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
-
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
-
1 teaspoon baking powder
-
½ teaspoon salt
For the Lemon Frost
-
1 cup powdered sugar
-
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
-
1 tablespoon lemon zest
-
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
-
½ cup white chocolate, melted
Optional Garnish
-
Lemon zest curls
-
White chocolate drizzle
-
Fresh berries (strawberries or raspberries)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease the parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until a soft dough forms.
Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until lightly golden and set in the center. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely before adding frosting.
While the base cools, make the frosting. In a bowl, beat together softened butter, powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth and creamy. Fold in the melted white chocolate. Adjust consistency with more powdered sugar for thickness or a touch of milk for a thinner glaze.
Spread the lemon frosting evenly over the cooled bar base. Smooth the top with a spatula. Optionally, garnish with extra lemon zest, white chocolate drizzle, or fresh berries.
Place the frosted bars in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set the frosting. Cut into squares or rectangles using a sharp knife for clean edges.
Notes
Ensure the bar base is completely cooled before adding frosting; otherwise, the frosting will melt and slide off. For extra smooth frosting, melt the white chocolate gently over a double boiler to prevent clumping.