Lemon Scented Espresso Bars

Lemon Scented Espresso Bars
Recipe submitted by Patricia Robinson

You must try these heavenly lemon scented espresso bars.  They are out of this world delicious!

Ingredients:

Crust

8 oz. unsalted butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons freshly grated lemon zest
1/4 teaspoon salt

Filling

4 eggs
1 cup sugar
1 cup lightly packed brown sugar
1/4 cup brewed espresso or double strength coffee, room temperature
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons freshly grated lemon zest
3 to 4 tablespoons dark coffee beans, finely grated
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 cup powdered sugar

Directions:

To make the crust, preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.  Blend in the flour, zest and salt.  Press the mixture evenly into ungreased 13x9-inch glass baking dish and bake until golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.  Remove pan to a wire rake and cool at least 10 minutes.

To make the filling, beat the eggs and sugars in medium bowl until thick and smooth. Blend in the espresso, flour, zest, ground coffee and baking powder.  Pour over crust and bake 25-30 minutes at 350 degrees. Remove pan to wire rake and cool completely. Cover, chill and cut into squares. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Make 30

Recipe submitted by Patricia Robinson