Lemon Bars

This is a classic recipe from Southern Living. I have never brought these anywhere and not had requests for the recipe. It’s a tried and true favorite for sure. Fresh lemon juice is key here - the bottled stuff just won’t cut it in this recipe.

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, divided
1/2 cup powdered sugar
3/4 cup unsalted butter, chilled
1/2 tsp baking powder
4 eggs, beaten
2 cups sugar
1/2 tsp grated lemon rind
1/3 cup lemon juice

Combine 2 cups flour and 1/2 cup powdered sugar. Cut butter into flour mixture with pastry blender until mixture resembles coarse meal.
Spoon flour mixture into a greased 9x13 inch pan; press firmly and evenly into pan using fingertips. Bake at 350 for 20-25 minutes or until crust is lightly browned.
Combine remaining 1/2 cup flour and baking powder; set aside. Combine eggs, 2 cups sugar, lemon rind, if desired, and lemon juice; stir well. Stir dry ingredients into egg mixture, and pour over baked crust.
Bake at 350 for 25 minutes or until lightly browned and set. Cool on a wire rack. Dust lightly with powdered sugar if desired.