Do Lemon Bars Need to Be Refrigerated? (2024)

Nobody can turn down a good lemon bar. Rich, tart, and sugary, this combination of shortbread and lemon curd is truly in a class of its own. But one simple lemon bar recipe can yield a lot of lemon bars, which brings up the question: How do you store all those extra lemon bars? Read on to learn the best way to store lemon bars, how long lemon bars last, and how to prep lemon bars for the fridge and freezer.

Do Lemon Bars Need to Be Refrigerated?

Lemon bars should be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated in order to prevent bacterial growth or foodborne illness. The filling in lemon bars is made with eggs and can become a breeding ground for bacteria if it's kept in the danger zone (between 41 and 153 degrees F). To store lemon bars, simply place in an airtight container and seal tightly, then put them in the fridge. If you're stacking lemon bars, insert a sheet of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. According to the USDA, lemon bars will last in the refrigerator up to 7 days.

Can You Freeze Lemon Bars?

Lemon bars can be frozen and last up to 4 months if they're stored properly. To freeze freshly baked lemon bars, skip sprinkling powdered sugar over the bars (freezing powdered sugar creates a gummy texture) and let cool completely.

• Freeze cooled lemon bars uncovered for 2-3 hours to set the filling. You can freeze the entire baking pan of uncut bars or individual bars.
• Wrap individual bars or entire sections of a larger, uncut bar tightly in plastic wrap. Add a layer of aluminum foil for protection from odors and freezer burn.
• Place bars in a large zip-top bag, or wrap in another layer of foil. If using a zip-top bag, squeeze all the air out before sealing.
• Freeze for up to 4 months

To defrost lemon bars, remove from freezer, unwrap, and place on a serving dish or tray. Lemon bars will thaw within 30 minutes at room temperature. You may also place the lemon bars in an airtight container, and let thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

How Long Do Lemon Bars Last?

• In the refrigerator: Up to a week in an airtight container.
• In the freezer: Up to 4 months in an airtight container and properly wrapped.

Hungry for more? Check out our collection of lemon bar recipes.

• 18 Tart and Decadent Lemon and Cream Cheese Desserts
• 7 Sweet and Tart Cranberry-Lemon Recipes
• How to Make and Use Preserved Lemons