Lemon Creme Brulee Bars

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 large egg yolks
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for caramelizing)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8x8 inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Cut in the softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool.
4. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream and sugar. Stir until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is warm but not boiling.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth.
6. Slowly pour the warm cream mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
7. Pour the custard filling over the cooled crust in the baking dish. Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and just slightly jiggly in the center.
8. Allow the bars to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until fully chilled.
9. Before serving, sprinkle an even layer of granulated sugar over the top of the custard. Using a kitchen torch, caramelize the sugar until it bubbles and turns golden brown. Let it cool for a couple of minutes to harden.