Indulge in the bright and zesty flavors of summer with these Creamy Limoncello Bars! A perfect blend of tangy lemon curd, rich cheesecake filling, and a buttery graham cracker crust, these bars are the ultimate treat for lemon lovers. Easy to make and oh-so-delicious, they’re sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
INGREDIENTS
For the Crust:
12 tbsp (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing
24 full-size graham crackers (about 12 oz) or 3 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 tsp kosher salt
For the Filling and Topping:
6 medium lemons
6 large egg yolks
2 (14-ounce) cans sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup limoncello
1 cup cold heavy cream
2 tbsp powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
INSTRUCTIONS
Make the Crust
Preheat the oven to 350°F and position a rack in the center. Lightly butter the bottom and sides of a 9×13-inch glass baking dish. Line the bottom and long sides with parchment paper, leaving a 1-inch overhang to create a sling.
Melt 12 tablespoons of butter. Place the graham crackers in a food processor and pulse until fine crumbs form. Add the sugar and salt, then pulse to combine.
Transfer the crumbs to a bowl, drizzle with melted butter, and stir until evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into an even layer in the prepared dish using your hands or the bottom of a measuring cup.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, until the crust is fragrant and begins to darken at the edges. Remove and let cool on a wire rack. Keep the oven at 350°F.
Make the Filling
Zest 1–2 lemons to yield 1 tablespoon plus 2 teaspoons of zest. Juice the lemons to make 1 cup.
In a stand mixer with the whisk attachment (or a bowl with a hand mixer), beat the egg yolks on low speed for about 15 seconds. Gradually add the condensed milk while mixing. Increase the speed to medium and beat until thickened, about 2 minutes.
Add the lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of lemon zest (save the rest for topping), and limoncello. Mix on low until just combined. Pour the filling into the crust.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the filling is set in the center. Let cool on a wire rack for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Make the Topping
Combine the reserved lemon zest, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a stand mixer bowl. Whip on medium speed for 1 minute, then increase to high speed and beat until stiff peaks form, 3–4 minutes.
Using the parchment overhang, lift the bars out of the baking dish and transfer to a cutting board. Score into 24 bars. Pipe or dollop whipped cream on each bar. Slice fully and serve.
RECIPE NOTES
Make-Ahead: The crust can be prepared a day in advance. Let it cool completely, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and store at room temperature. Unwrap before filling and baking.
Storage: Refrigerate bars in an airtight container for up to 1 week. For longer storage, wrap them in plastic wrap, place in a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 4 months. Thaw in the refrigerator for 1 hour or at room temperature for 15–20 minutes.
Discover 15 Best Concealers of 2023 to Hide Imperfections
A high-quality concealer is an essential item in your makeup collection. Why? Simply put, it has endless benefits. Whether you want to enhance your cupid’s bow with a luminous highlight, conceal acne scars, or most importantly, hide those pesky dark circles under your eyes, a reliable concealer is a must-have. Unlike fleeting makeup fads, a good concealer is a long-lasting investment that will never go out of style. It’s also small enough to carry in your purse for touch-ups during a night out. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which concealer to choose. In this article, we will discover the 15 best concealers that will help you achieve a flawless look by hiding those pesky imperfections. Whether you’re looking for a full-coverage concealer or a lightweight option, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s take the look and find the perfect concealer for you!
Best Overall Concealer: NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer
Look no further than the NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer if you need a new holy grail product! With the ability to cover dark circles flawlessly and never separate or crease, this formula will make it appear like you’ve had a full night’s sleep (even if you haven’t). For a bonus, swipe it on the top of your nose and around your mouth for an instant complexion-brightening effect. Not only is this product suitable for all skin types, but it also boasts a long-wearing and non-creasing formula that provides excellent coverage and a natural finish. While it may be priced higher than some other concealers, its top-notch quality and smooth blendability make it worth every penny. Don’t wait any longer – invest in the NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer in Custard today and experience its game-changing benefits for yourself!
Best Drugstore Concealer: Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Treatment Multi-Use Concealer
The Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Treatment Multi-Use Concealer has been widely praised by customers for its excellent coverage of dark circles, puffiness, and fine lines, all while leaving a natural finish. The concealer is easy to apply and features a unique sponge applicator that makes it simple to target specific areas. Customers also love that it doesn’t settle into creases or feel heavy on the skin. Despite some reviews mentioning that the product can run out quickly with frequent use, the Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Treatment Multi-Use Concealer is an affordable and effective option that customers highly recommend for its coverage and ease of use. With its youth-boosting properties from goji berry and fragrance-free formula, it’s a great choice for those on a budget. The only downside is its limited shade range.
Best Crease-Free Concealer: Tarte Shape Tape Concealer
The Tarte Shape Tape Contour Concealer is highly praised by customers for its long-lasting formula that provides high coverage without creasing or settling into fine lines. Its smooth, creamy texture is easy to blend and build up for customizable coverage. Despite its thick consistency, this concealer is recommended for its effectiveness in covering blemishes and dark circles. The product contains shea and mango butter to add hydration and licorice root to prevent creasing. It is waterproof and available in a wide range of shades to suit all skin tones. The Tarte Shape Tape Contour Concealer is a dermatologist-tested, non-creasing, long-wearing concealer that provides a brightening effect and is perfect for those looking for a flawless finish.
Best Splurge Concealer: Dior Forever Skin Correct Concealer
Looking for a full-coverage concealer that provides long-lasting, natural-looking results? Look no further than Dior’s Forever Skin Correct Concealer. Formulated with iris, wild pansy, and nasturtium extracts, this creamy concealer can blur pores, reduce redness, and lock in moisture for up to 24 hours. While a bit more blending may be required, the lightweight and non-cakey formula ensures excellent coverage for dark circles, blemishes, and redness without fading or creasing. With a range of shades available, you can easily find your perfect match for a flawless finish. Although it may come at a higher price point, the quality and effectiveness of this product are well worth the investment. Join the many satisfied customers and splurge on the Dior Forever Skin Correct Concealer for a truly luxurious makeup experience.
Best Concealer for Dark Circles: Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Flawless Wear Concealer
The Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Flawless Wear Concealer is highly recommended by customers for its long-wearing, high-coverage formula. It is said to provide natural-looking coverage that doesn’t settle into fine lines or creases. Customers love that it is waterproof and sweat-resistant, making it perfect for all-day wear. Some reviewers note that the product can be a bit thick and difficult to blend, but it provides excellent coverage for blemishes, dark circles, and other imperfections. This silky-textured formula earned top scores for ease of use and spreadability and got a perfect score for texture. So why wait? Give this “magic wand” a try and even out your skin tone with ease.
Best Concealer for Blemishes: NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Bare With Me Concealer Serum
The NYX Bare with Me Concealer is a customer favorite for its affordable price and excellent coverage. This lightweight concealer is said to provide natural-looking coverage that doesn’t feel heavy or cakey on the skin. Clients enjoy the range of shades available, making it easy to find a perfect match for their skin tone. While some reviewers note that the product can crease and fade throughout the day, many others praise its long-lasting wear and ability to hide blemishes, dark circles, and other imperfections. Overall, the NYX Professional Makeup Bare with Me Concealer is a great choice for those looking for an affordable, high-quality concealer that delivers excellent coverage and a natural finish.
Best Concealer for Red Spots: L.A. Girl Pro Conceal HD Concealer
The L.A. Girl Pro Conceal HD Concealer is a highly recommended product for those looking for a budget-friendly option. Buyers rave about its creamy consistency and full coverage, which can hide blemishes, dark circles, and other imperfections with ease. The product is also praised for its extensive shade range, which makes it easy to find a perfect match for any skin tone. But, some reviewers note that the product can be a bit difficult to blend and can settle into fine lines or creases if not set with powder. Overall, the L.A. Girl Pro Conceal HD Concealer is a great choice for those looking for an affordable concealer that provides great coverage and a natural finish.
Best Concealer for Dry Skin: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Concealer
The Neutrogena Healthy Skin Radiant Brightening Cream Concealer has received positive reviews for its lightweight and non-greasy formula that offers great coverage and lasts all day. Reviewers appreciate the added hyaluronic acid that provides hydration and a smooth, radiant finish. While some note that the shade range could be improved, the product is highly recommended for its effectiveness and affordability. The stick formula is easy to apply, making it great for beginners, and the hydrating formula is ideal for dry, flaky skin. If you’re looking for a your-skin-but-better finish that also provides hydration and coverage, the Neutrogena Healthy Skin Radiant Brightening Cream Concealer is worth a try.
Best Concealer for Oily Skin: e.l.f. Hydrating Camo Concealer
The e.l.f. Hydrating Camo Concealer is concerned for its hydrating formula that provides excellent coverage. It is said to be lightweight and non-cakey, making it easy to apply and blend. Customers love that it doesn’t settle into fine lines or creases, and it provides a natural finish that lasts all day without fading. Reviewers note that the product is affordable and comes in a range of shades, making it easy to find a perfect match for their skin tone.
Best Concealer for Dark Skin Tones: Dermablend Cover Care Full Coverage Concealer
Dermablend is the ideal brand for anyone who is looking for a hybrid between makeup and skincare. This concealer provides full coverage for blemishes, dark circles, and redness without feeling heavy or cakey. The applicator is easy to use and hygienic. The concealer lasts all day without creasing or fading, and it is transfer-resistant. The only downside is the limited shade range. Nevertheless, this hydrating, waterproof, and transfer-resistant concealer is worth a try. It contains sunflower seed oil and vegetable glycerin to keep skin hydrated, and it is 100% vegan and made without alcohol and parabens. The range of shades is also commendable, including olive to deep, beautiful ebony, with warm undertones that offer a warm finish without looking too red, orange, gray, or ashy.
Best Long-Wear Concealer: L’Oréal Paris Infallible Full Wear Concealer
When it comes to affordable long-wear makeup, L’Oréal’s Infallible line is tough to beat. Customers love that it blends easily without settling into fine lines or creasing, and it works well for covering blemishes, dark circles, and other imperfections. Although some reviewers note that the shade range could be improved, the product is highly recommended for its effectiveness and affordability. With a long-wear formula that contains silica and glycerin for a smooth finish and is waterproof, this budget-friendly concealer is worth trying if you’re looking for a full-coverage concealer that stays put all day. Just be aware that it contains fragrance and dries quickly, so blend immediately after application.
Best Waterproof Concealer: Maybelline Super Stay Full Coverage
Looking for a solid waterproof concealer that won’t break the bank? Maybelline has you covered. Customers appreciate that it covers blemishes, dark spots, and acne scars without feeling heavy or cakey. Although it may be difficult to blend and may oxidize over time, the product is still recommended for its effectiveness. Additionally, Maybelline’s Super Stay Concealer is a great option for a waterproof concealer that gives lightweight coverage and lasts up to 24 hours. It’s also loaded with moisturizing ingredients that help it go on smoothly without caking.
Best Matte Concealer: Wet n Wild Photo Focus Concealer
The Wet n Wild Photo Focus Concealer has received mostly positive reviews. It is a great budget-friendly option for those in need of a reliable concealer. It comes with a doe-foot applicator for easy application and is said to provide long-lasting coverage for dark circles and blemishes. The lightweight formula is also a plus. While the shade range could be better, the product is highly recommended for its effectiveness and affordability. If you’re in the market for an affordable concealer that gets the job done, the Wet n Wild Photo Focus Concealer is worth checking out.
Best Multi-Use Concealer: Too Faced Born This Way Super Coverage Multi-Use Concealer
The Too Faced Born This Way Super Coverage Multi-Use Concealer is a popular choice for its full coverage and lightweight formula that blends effortlessly, leaving a natural finish. It can be used to conceal dark circles, blemishes, and imperfections. Although it may crease in fine lines, it has long-lasting wear and is recommended for its effectiveness. The wide range of shades is great for all skin tones, and the hydrating, vegan formula is a bonus. It has a great coverage that blends easily and provides a natural-looking finish. It is a bit pricey, but the product is effective and worth the investment
Best Brightening Concealer: e.l.f. 16HR Camo Concealer
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly concealer that provides full coverage and long-lasting wear, the E.L.F. Cosmetics 16HR Camo Concealer is a great option to try. It is long-lasting, and provides full coverage without looking cakey or heavy on the skin. The formula may need a bit more blending, but it is an effective and affordable choice for those on a budget. This concealer may be budget-friendly, but the pigmentation stands up to its expensive counterparts. If you’re looking for full coverage that’ll stay put all day, the e.l.f. Cosmetics 16hr Camo Concealer has got you covered. The lightweight formula corrects and perfects without looking creasy or building up increases. It is praised for its ability to cover dark circles, blemishes, and other imperfections without looking cakey or heavy on the skin. Some reviewers claim that the product can be difficult to blend and may settle into fine lines, but overall, it is recommended for its effectiveness and affordability.
How to Find the Best Concealer for You?
It’s crucial to find the right formula and shade that suits your specific needs. Here’s a guide to help you out:
✔️ Shade: To cover undereye circles, go for a shade that is one or two tones lighter than your skin tone. Peach undertones are ideal for neutralizing dark brown spots, while green- or yellow-tinted formulas work best for covering acne and redness.
✔️ Finish: For dark circles, use a concealer with a radiant or luminizing finish. For acne and dark spots, choose a long-lasting matte finish. For mature skin, avoid anything too shimmery or heavy, and instead, go for a medium-coverage liquid concealer applied sparingly.
✔️ Formula and coverage: Liquid formulas are preferable for concealing around the eyes, while stick concealers are better for blemishes and imperfections like sun spots, hyperpigmentation, and age spots, as they are designed to stay in place. Creams, on the other hand, can settle into fine lines and wrinkles.
How to Apply Concealer Like a Pro?
When it comes to applying concealer to your face, there are three main ways to do it – using a brush, a sponge, or your fingers. Each method will give you different levels of coverage. For the greatest coverage, a dense brush is recommended. Using a brush gives you more control over the area you’re covering, which means you can conceal your blemish more effectively.
A sponge can be used by applying a small amount of concealer to the area you want to cover and then lightly wetting the sponge to gently tap the concealer into your skin. Yet, some of the product may get absorbed into the sponge, so you may need to add another layer for full coverage. Using a sponge will provide a natural finish as it helps your makeup sink into your skin.
Using your fingers is best for areas where the product can easily crease, like under your eyes or around your mouth, since you can blend it out easily. For under-eye concealer, it is recommended to begin immediately after applying eye cream, using your ring finger to press the concealer in, only where you see darkness, and blend it seamlessly with a patting motion.
