Lemon Crumb Bars: Discover This Easy, Zesty Recipe!

As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to whipping up something delicious. That’s why I adore these Lemon Crumb Bars! They’re the perfect blend of a buttery crumb crust and a zesty lemon filling, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply want a quick dessert solution for your family, these bars are a fantastic choice. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why they’ve become a staple in my kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Crumb Bars

• Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy days.
• Bright, zesty flavor that lifts your spirits.
• Buttery crumb crust adds a delightful texture.
• Great for sharing at gatherings or family dinners.
• Can be made ahead and stored for later enjoyment.

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Ingredients for Lemon Crumb Bars

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Lemon Crumb Bars. Here’s what you’ll need:

• All-purpose flour: This forms the base of your crust, giving it structure and a tender crumb.
• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the crust, balancing the tartness of the lemon filling.
• Light brown sugar: This brings a hint of caramel flavor and moisture to the crust.
• Salt: Just a pinch enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Baking powder: Helps the crust rise slightly, creating a light texture.
• Unsalted butter: The star of the crust! It adds richness and flavor. Make sure it’s melted and cooled for the best results.
• Sweetened condensed milk: This creamy ingredient gives the filling its luscious texture and sweetness.
• Egg yolks: They add richness and help set the filling, making it smooth and custardy.
• Heavy cream: A splash of cream adds a velvety richness to the filling.
• Fresh lemon juice: The zesty hero of this recipe! Freshly squeezed juice gives the bars their bright flavor.
• Optional ingredients: For an extra lemony kick, consider adding lemon zest. You can also dust the bars with powdered sugar before serving for a touch of elegance.

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing!

How to Make Lemon Crumb Bars

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these delightful Lemon Crumb Bars! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a zesty treat that’s sure to impress.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your crust bakes evenly. A hot oven helps create that perfect golden-brown crust that we all love. So, don’t skip this step!

Step 2: Prepare the Crust Mixture

In a large bowl, combine your all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, salt, and baking powder. Mix these dry ingredients well. Then, pour in the melted butter. Stir until the mixture becomes crumbly. You want it to resemble wet sand. This crumbly texture is what will form the base of your delicious dessert bars.

Step 3: Form the Crust

Now, it’s time to press the crumb mixture into the bottom of a greased baking dish. Use your fingers or the back of a measuring cup to spread it evenly. Make sure it’s packed tightly, as this will help the crust hold together during baking. An even layer is key to achieving that perfect texture!

Step 4: Bake the Crust

Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake the crust for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it turns lightly golden. Keep an eye on it, as ovens can vary. A perfectly baked crust is the foundation of your Lemon Crumb Bars!

Step 5: Make the Lemon Filling

While the crust is baking, let’s whip up the lemon filling. In another bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, heavy cream, salt, and fresh lemon juice. Mix until smooth and creamy. This filling is where the magic happens, so make sure it’s well combined for that luscious texture!

Step 6: Combine and Bake

Once your crust is done baking, carefully pour the lemon filling over it. Spread it evenly with a spatula. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes. The filling should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center. This is what gives your bars that delightful custardy texture!

Step 7: Cool and Serve

After baking, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool completely. This step is important! Once cooled, cut the bars into squares. I like to use a sharp knife for clean edges. You can serve them chilled or at room temperature. Either way, they’re sure to be a hit!

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Tips for Success

• Use fresh lemons for the best flavor; bottled juice just doesn’t compare.
• Let the bars cool completely before cutting to avoid a messy slice.
• For a fun twist, try adding a pinch of lemon zest to the filling.
• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to a week, but they rarely last that long!
• Dust with powdered sugar just before serving for a beautiful presentation.

Equipment Needed

• Baking dish: A 9×13 inch dish works perfectly, but any similar size will do.
• Mixing bowls: Use two medium bowls for mixing the crust and filling.
• Whisk: A simple whisk or fork will help combine your filling ingredients.
• Spatula: A rubber spatula is great for spreading the filling evenly.
• Sharp knife: For cutting the bars into neat squares.

Variations of Lemon Crumb Bars

• Blueberry Lemon Crumb Bars: Add fresh or frozen blueberries to the lemon filling for a burst of fruity flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these bars suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
• Vegan Version: Use coconut cream instead of sweetened condensed milk and flax eggs in place of egg yolks for a plant-based treat.
• Herbed Lemon Crumb Bars: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or mint into the filling for a unique twist on the classic flavor.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled bars for a decadent touch that pairs beautifully with lemon.

Serving Suggestions for Lemon Crumb Bars

• Pair with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness.
• Serve alongside fresh berries for a colorful, fruity contrast.
• Enjoy with a cup of herbal tea or iced lemonade for a refreshing combo.
• Dust with powdered sugar just before serving for an elegant touch.
• Garnish with lemon slices or zest for a beautiful presentation.

FAQs about Lemon Crumb Bars

Final Thoughts

Making Lemon Crumb Bars is more than just baking; it’s about creating joyful moments in the kitchen. The bright, zesty flavor brings a smile to my face, and I love sharing these bars with family and friends. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight or a festive gathering. Plus, the ease of preparation means I can whip them up even on my busiest days. So, grab those lemons and let’s get baking! I promise, these delightful dessert bars will become a cherished favorite in your home, just like they have in mine.

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