Lemon Crumb Bars

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that perfectly balances sweet and tangy, look no further than these Lemon Crumb Bars. They have a buttery crust, a zesty lemon filling, and a crumbly topping that will make your taste buds sing! Whether you need a quick dessert for a busy weeknight or something special for family gatherings, these bars fit the bill beautifully. They are not just delicious; they also bring a little sunshine to any occasion.

What makes this recipe truly special is how simple it is to whip up. In just 50 minutes, you can transform basic ingredients into a mouthwatering dessert that everyone will love. Plus, the bright lemon flavor adds that refreshing touch we all crave!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a handful of simple steps, you can create these delightful bars without any fuss.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves lemon desserts! These Lemon Crumb Bars are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare them in advance and store them in the fridge, making them perfect for parties or last-minute get-togethers.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of sweet and tangy flavors creates an irresistible treat that you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! For these Lemon Crumb Bars, you’ll need some simple and wholesome items that you probably have in your pantry already. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Crust

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Filling

• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest

Variations

One of the great things about these Lemon Crumb Bars is their flexibility! You can easily put your own spin on this classic recipe. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add berries: Toss in some fresh blueberries or raspberries for an extra fruity twist!
• Try different citrus: Substitute lime or orange juice instead of lemon for a unique flavor profile.
• Make it gluten-free: Swap out regular flour for a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.
• Incorporate herbs: Add some fresh mint or basil into the filling for a refreshing herbal note.

How to Make Lemon Crumb Bars

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because starting with a hot oven ensures that your crust bakes evenly and gets that lovely golden color.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, baking powder, melted butter, and salt until crumbly. This mixture should resemble coarse crumbs. Reserve 1/2 cup of this mixture for topping later. Press the remaining mixture into the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper. Bake it for about 12-15 minutes until lightly golden. The crust sets the stage for your luscious filling!

Step 3: Make the Lemon Filling

While your crust is baking, whisk together the eggs, sugar, flour, lemon juice, and lemon zest in another bowl until smooth. This step brings all those bright flavors together and creates that deliciously tangy filling you’ll love.

Step 4: Assemble Your Bars

Once the crust has baked and cooled slightly, pour the lemon mixture evenly over it. Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture on top to add texture. This layer will give you those lovely crumbs once baked!

Step 5: Bake Again

Bake everything together for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden. Watching it rise in the oven is so satisfying!

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let your bars cool completely before chilling them in the refrigerator for at least one hour. This helps them set perfectly! Once chilled, slice them into squares and dust with powdered sugar just before serving—a lovely finishing touch.

These Lemon Crumb Bars are not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious! Enjoy making these treats; I’m sure they’ll become a new favorite in your home!

Pro Tips for Making Lemon Crumb Bars

Making lemon crumb bars is a delightful experience, and with these helpful tips, you can ensure your treats turn out perfectly every time!

• Measure accurately: Using precise measurements for your ingredients will guarantee the right texture and flavor balance in your bars.
• Use fresh lemons: Fresh lemon juice and zest provide the brightest flavor, making your dessert taste vibrant and refreshing compared to bottled options.
• Let them cool completely: Allowing the bars to cool fully before slicing helps maintain their shape and makes for cleaner cuts.
• Chill before serving: Chilling the bars firms up the filling and enhances the flavors, giving you a more enjoyable texture when you take a bite!
• Dust with powdered sugar just before serving: This adds a beautiful finishing touch while keeping the sugar from melting into the bars.

How to Serve Lemon Crumb Bars

These lemon crumb bars are not only delicious but also visually appealing! Here are some ideas to make your serving even more delightful.

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves: A sprig of mint adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that complements the lemon flavor beautifully.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a creamy touch, serve with a dollop of whipped coconut cream that enhances the sweetness without overshadowing the tartness.
• Lemon slices: Thin slices or wedges of lemon can be placed on top or alongside each bar for an attractive presentation that highlights the key ingredient.

Side Dishes

• Mixed berry salad: A refreshing salad made from strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries provides a sweet contrast to the tangy lemon bars, adding a burst of color on your plate.
• Iced herbal tea: A chilled herbal tea, such as chamomile or mint, offers a soothing drink option that balances out the sweet-tartness of the bars perfectly.
• Vanilla non-dairy yogurt: A scoop of vanilla non-dairy yogurt serves as a creamy side that complements the zesty flavors while keeping it light and refreshing.
• Coconut macaroons: These chewy treats add another layer of sweetness while their coconut flavor pairs nicely with lemon.

Enjoy making these delightful lemon crumb bars and sharing them with friends and family at your next gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

These lemon crumb bars are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Here’s how to ensure they stay fresh and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover lemon crumb bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate them where they will last up to a week.
• If you want to keep them even longer, consider freezing!

Freezing

• To freeze, cut the bars into squares and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Once frozen solid, transfer the squares to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just remember to label it!

Reheating

• For best results, thaw the bars overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• If you prefer them warm, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Got questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some common queries about these delicious lemon crumb bars.

How do I make Lemon Crumb Bars gluten-free?

You can easily substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just ensure it’s a one-to-one replacement for best results!

Can I reduce the sugar in Lemon Crumb Bars?

Yes! Feel free to adjust the sugar based on your taste preference. Just keep in mind that reducing sugar may affect the texture slightly.

What can I substitute for fresh lemon juice in Lemon Crumb Bars?

If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch. However, fresh juice gives the best flavor!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe for lemon crumb bars brings joy to your kitchen as much as it does to mine! The zesty flavor combined with the buttery crust creates an irresistible treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy making these delightful squares and sharing them with loved ones—there’s nothing quite like homemade goodness! Happy baking!