Pink Lemonade Bars

Pretty in pink lemon squares are a sweet-tart addition to any dessert table. When I make these at home, they're devoured in no time and everyone always wants the recipe. These are great sellers at bake sales, as well.

Hands-On Time: 15 minutes
Ready In: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: Serves 24

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter - softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 cups flour
Pinch of salt

6 large eggs
1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup flour
Several drops of red food coloring
Powdered sugar for dusting

1. Preheat oven to 350 F degrees and line a 9 x 13 baking pan with parchment or waxed paper.
2. Cream together butter and 1/2 cup granulated sugar. Stir flour and salt together and add to butter. Stir with a wooden spoon until a soft dough forms.
3. Press dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 25 minutes. Remove from oven and cool. Reduce oven heat to 325 degrees.
4. Blend eggs and remaining sugar until lemon-yellow and smooth. Add lemon juice, zest and food coloring until the color of pink lemonade. Add flour slowly, stirring constantnly so lumps do not form.
5. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until firm. To check for firmness, give the pan a small shake -- if there is lttle movement in the center of the filling, it's done.
6. Cool completely and dust with powdered sugar before cutting.