A bright burst of sunshine can often be found in a simple dessert, and these Tangy Lemon Crumb Bars are the perfect embodiment of that joy. With a buttery, crumbly crust cradling a smooth, creamy lemon filling, this recipe offers an irresistible balance of tangy and sweet flavors. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or craving a delightful afternoon snack, these bars are a breeze to make with everyday pantry staples. Plus, they can easily be adapted to suit gluten-free and dairy-free diets, making them a versatile treat for everyone. Ready to indulge in a citrusy delight that’ll have your friends asking for seconds? Let’s get baking!
Why are Lemon Crumb Bars a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: The tangy lemon filling harmonizes beautifully with the buttery crust, creating a mouthwatering dessert that’s hard to resist.
Easy to Make: Only minimal prep is required, making this recipe perfect for both experienced chefs and novice bakers looking for a fun project.
Crowd-Pleasing: These bars are a delightful addition to any gathering, sure to impress friends and family with their bright, zesty flavor.
Customizable: Feel free to experiment with various citrus juices or add zest for an extra burst of flavor, ensuring there’s a perfect version for everyone!
Diet-Friendly: With simple swaps, like using gluten-free flour or coconut cream, you can easily make these bars accommodating for gluten-free and dairy-free diets, just like my Lemon Oatmeal Bake.
Fresh and Fun: They’re refreshing enough to enjoy on a warm day and can even be served with a dollop of whipped cream or fresh berries, pairing splendidly with my Whipped Pink Lemonade for a delightful afternoon treat!
Lemon Crumb Bars Ingredients
For the Crust
- All-purpose flour – Provides structure to the crust; substitute with gluten-free 1:1 baking flour for a gluten-free version.
- Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness to the crust.
- Light brown sugar – Contributes a slight molasses flavor and moisture.
- Salt – Enhances flavor; ensures balance of sweetness.
- Baking powder – Helps the crust rise and become flaky.
- Unsalted butter – Gives richness and a crumbly texture to the crust; should be melted and cooled.
For the Lemon Filling
- Sweetened condensed milk – Serves as the base for the lemon filling, providing creaminess and sweetness.
- Egg yolks – Adds richness and helps set the filling; use room temperature eggs for best results.
- Heavy cream – Adds a smooth texture to the filling; replace with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
- Fresh lemon juice – Adds brightness and tang; about 4-5 lemons needed for ⅔ cup—use fresh juice for optimal flavor!
For Topping
- Remaining crumb mixture – Sprinkled over the filling to add texture and sweetness.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Lemon Crumb Bars
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is perfect for baking the crust to a delightful golden color. While the oven is warming up, line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring some overhang for easy removal later.
Step 2: Make the Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, salt, and baking powder; stir until well mixed. Next, blend in the melted and cooled unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press approximately ⅔ of this crumb mixture evenly into the lined baking pan, creating a solid base, and bake for 15 minutes, or until light golden.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
While the crust is cooling, grab another bowl to whisk together sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt. Once combined, slowly add in the fresh lemon juice, ensuring a smooth and creamy texture. The mixture should be luminous and fragrant; this zesty filling will beautifully contrast with the buttery crust of your Lemon Crumb Bars.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
With the crust now out of the oven and slightly cooled, pour the zesty lemon filling over the warm crust, spreading it evenly. Crumble the remaining crumb mixture over the top, allowing for some lemon peek-through. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, watching for a set filling that’s just slightly soft in the center and a golden, crisp top.
Step 5: Cool and Chill
Once baked, let the Lemon Crumb Bars cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. After cooling, transfer the pan to the fridge and chill for at least 4 hours. This cooling period is crucial for the filling to set nicely, making slicing a breeze when it’s time to serve these tangy, delightful bars.
What to Serve with Lemon Crumb Bars
Indulging in Lemon Crumb Bars is a delightful experience, and you can elevate your dessert spread with these perfect accompaniments.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a fluffy texture, enhancing the tangy flavor of the bars beautifully.
- Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries provide a burst of color and a hint of natural sweetness, making every bite even more refreshing.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy richness of vanilla ice cream contrasts wonderfully with the zesty lemon filling, creating a perfect balance of flavors that delights the palate.
- Mint Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh mint leaves adds a refreshing touch that brightens the overall flavor profile, adding elegance to your dessert experience.
- Iced Tea or Lemonade: A glass of chilled iced tea or a lemonade complements the citrus notes, making your dessert feel like a sunny afternoon by the beach.
- Chocolate Drizzle: For a unique twist, drizzle a bit of melted chocolate on top of the bars; the sweetness pairs surprisingly well with the tart lemon filling.
Mix and match these suggestions to create a vibrant dessert table that leaves everyone craving more of your Lemon Crumb Bars!
Make Ahead Options
These Lemon Crumb Bars are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the crust and the filling up to 24 hours in advance. To do this, simply make the crust and bake it, then let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container at room temperature. For the filling, whisk together the ingredients and refrigerate it until you’re ready to pour it over the crust. When it’s time to finish the recipe, simply spread the chilled filling over the pre-baked crust, sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture on top, and continue baking as directed. This way, you’ll have a delightful treat ready for any occasion, saving time without compromising quality!
Expert Tips for Lemon Crumb Bars
- Chilling Matters: Make sure to refrigerate for at least 4 hours. This crucial step helps the filling set properly for clean, delightful slices.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh lemon juice. It significantly enhances flavor and avoids the bitterness that bottled versions can sometimes add.
- Mind the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the bars while baking. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture, so aim for a slightly soft center for the perfect Lemon Crumb Bars.
- Pack the Crust Right: Firmly pressing the crust mixture into the pan not only creates a sturdy base but also prevents crumbling when slicing.
- Utilize Parchment Paper: Lining your pan with parchment paper allows for easy removal of the bars and clean cuts, making presentation much smoother.
Lemon Crumb Bars Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to explore the delightful possibilities in your Lemon Crumb Bars recipe, enhancing flavor and texture to your liking!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour blend for a light and tasty alternative.
- Dairy-Free: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream and sweetened condensed milk with coconut sweetened condensed milk for a creamy, tropical twist.
- Citrus Twist: Experiment with fresh lime or orange juice in place of lemon juice for a refreshing citrus variation.
- Zesty Surprise: Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the filling for an extra layer of vibrant flavor that pairs beautifully with the buttery crust!
- Sweet & Rich: Drizzle melted white chocolate over the top for an indulgent surprise that will elevate your dessert to new heights.
- Nutty Crunch: Stir in finely chopped nuts or crushed graham crackers into the crumb mixture for added texture and nuttiness – perfect for those who enjoy varying crunch!
- Fruit Topping: Top the bars with a layer of fresh berries or a fruit compote before serving to add a pop of color and a burst of sweetness. They would complement well with my Heavenly Summer Peach Bars.
- Spiced Comfort: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or ginger to the crust mix for a warm, uplifting spice note that beautifully contrasts with the cool lemon filling.
Feel inspired? These variations will provide a unique twist to your lemon crumb adventure and keep everyone excited about what’s coming out of your kitchen!
How to Store and Freeze Lemon Crumb Bars
Fridge: Store leftover Lemon Crumb Bars in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This will keep them fresh and ready for a sweet craving.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bars in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving to maintain their delightful texture.
Reheating: If you prefer them slightly warm, reheat individual servings in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Enjoy the freshly baked goodness again!
Wrapping: If freezing, wrap each bar in plastic wrap before placing them in the container to prevent freezer burn and maintain their delicious flavor.
Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe FAQs
What type of lemons should I use for the filling?
Absolutely, always opt for fresh lemons when making your Lemon Crumb Bars! They provide the best flavor and brightness. For this recipe, you’ll need about 4-5 lemons to yield ⅔ cup of fresh juice. Avoid bottled lemon juice as it can have a bitter taste that detracts from the dessert’s overall flavor.
How should I store leftover Lemon Crumb Bars?
Store any leftover Lemon Crumb Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This keeps them fresh and allows you to enjoy their delicious tangy flavor any time you crave a sweet treat!
Can I freeze Lemon Crumb Bars? How?
Sure thing! To freeze your Lemon Crumb Bars, first, let them cool completely. Then, wrap each bar in plastic wrap to avoid freezer burn and place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight or for a few hours before serving.
What should I do if the lemon filling doesn’t set properly?
If your lemon filling doesn’t set, it may be due to underbaking or not allowing enough chilling time. Aim to bake until the filling is just set but still slightly soft in the center. After baking, cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours to give it the time it needs to firm up.
Are these Lemon Crumb Bars suitable for gluten-free and dairy-free diets?
Absolutely! You can easily make these bars gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour. For a dairy-free option, replace the heavy cream with coconut cream. These swaps ensure that everyone can enjoy this zesty delight!
Lemon Crumb Bars with Buttery Crust: A Zesty Delight!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Combine flour, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, salt, and baking powder in a bowl. Blend in melted butter until crumbly. Press ⅔ of the mixture into the pan and bake for 15 minutes.
- In another bowl, whisk sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add fresh lemon juice until smooth.
- Pour the lemon filling over the crust and crumble remaining mixture on top. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes.
- Cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours before serving.
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