National Lemon Bar Day is celebrated every year on October 15. It was started in 2019 by Michael McCarthy after he noticed at a bake sale that many people hadn’t tried lemon bars before. Also known as lemon squares, these treats have a thin shortbread base with a lemon curd filling. Although lemon bars have appeared in community cookbooks and local newspapers for a long time, the first popular recipe was published in the “Chicago Daily Tribune” on August 27, 1962.
History of National Lemon Bar Day
National Lemon Bar Day was started in 2019 by Michale McCarthy after he found out at a fundraiser bake sale that many people had never tried lemon bars before. Also known as lemon squares, lemon bars have a thin shortbread crust and a lemon curd filling.
While they have been in community cookbooks and local newspapers for a long time, the first widely known recipe appeared in the “Chicago Daily Tribune” on August 27, 1962. Eleanore Mickelson’s recipe, featured in the ‘Today’s $5 Favorite Recipe’ column, suggested serving the cookies with fresh fruit, cold milk, or lemonade.
After listing the ingredients, the column gave detailed instructions: “Cream butter and confectioners’ sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in one cup of flour. Spread this mixture in an ungreased 9x9x2-inch pan and bake at 350 degrees for 10 minutes.
Gradually beat sugar into eggs, then add salt and lemon juice. Mix in sifted baking powder and two tablespoons of flour. Spread this over the crust and bake at 350 degrees for an additional 30 minutes. Let cool, dust with confectioners’ sugar, and cut into squares.”
Another recipe that gained popularity in America was published in Betty Crocker’s Cooky Book in 1963. Its ingredients were almost the same as Mickelson’s recipe, but it didn’t include flour in the curd. Today, lemon bars are a well-loved treat across the country.
| 12th Century (Shortbread Arrives on the Scene) | Shortbread originates in Scotland. |
| 1492 (Lemon Seeds Come to the New World) | Christopher Columbus brings lemon seeds from Europe to the New World. |
| 19th Century (Lemon Curd is Created) | Lemon curd originates in England. |
| 1962 (Lemon Bar Recipe is First Publicized) | The first widely publicized lemon bar recipe is published in the “Chicago Daily Tribune.” |
Trivia
Rich in Vitamin C: Lemons are an excellent source of vitamin C, which is crucial for a healthy immune system, skin, and overall cell function. Just one lemon provides about 30-40 mg of vitamin C, which is roughly half of the daily recommended intake for adults.
Natural Deodorizer: Lemons have natural antibacterial properties and a fresh, clean scent, making them a great natural deodorizer. You can use lemon slices or lemon juice to neutralize odors in your kitchen or refrigerator.
Acidity and Alkalinity: Despite their acidic taste, lemons have an alkalizing effect on the body once metabolized. This means they can help balance the body’s pH levels and may contribute to overall better health.
Versatile Uses: Lemons are incredibly versatile in cooking and baking. They can be used to add flavor to both sweet and savory dishes, in marinades, dressings, and desserts. Lemon zest and lemon juice can both enhance the taste of various dishes.
Skin Benefits: Lemon juice can be used as a natural astringent to help with acne and skin blemishes. Its high vitamin C content helps with collagen production, which can improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Just be cautious with sun exposure after using lemon juice on your skin, as it can increase sensitivity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, National Lemon Bar Day, celebrated annually on October 15, serves as a delightful reminder of the sweet and tangy treat that has captured the hearts of many. Initiated in 2019 by Michael McCarthy, this day highlights the charm of lemon bars, a dessert with a rich history that dates back to the 1960s.
With their origins traced to shortbread and lemon curd traditions, these bars have become a beloved staple in American baking. Whether enjoyed with a glass of lemonade or simply dusted with confectioners’ sugar, lemon bars embody a refreshing balance of tart and sweet flavors. As we celebrate National Lemon Bar Day, we not only honor a delicious treat but also appreciate the versatility and health benefits of lemons themselves, from their Vitamin C richness to their natural deodorizing properties.
Frequently Ask Question
Who started National Lemon Bar Day?
National Lemon Bar Day was started by Michael McCarthy in 2019. He observed at a bake sale that many people had not tasted lemon bars, inspiring him to create this day to celebrate the treat.
What are lemon bars?
Lemon bars, or lemon squares, are a dessert consisting of a thin shortbread base topped with a lemon curd filling. They are typically dusted with confectioners’ sugar and cut into squares.
When was the first widely known lemon bar recipe published?
The first widely known lemon bar recipe was published in the “Chicago Daily Tribune” on August 27, 1962. The recipe, featured in the ‘Today’s $5 Favorite Recipe’ column, was created by Eleanore Mickelson.
What is the origin of lemon bars?
Lemon bars are inspired by the combination of shortbread and lemon curd. Shortbread originates from Scotland, while lemon curd was created in England. Lemon bars gained popularity in the U.S. with the publication of recipes in the early 1960s.
What are some health benefits of lemons?
Lemons are rich in Vitamin C, which is important for a healthy immune system and skin. They also have natural antibacterial properties, can act as a natural deodorizer, help balance the body’s pH levels, and offer skin benefits like improving texture and reducing wrinkles.
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