Lemon Crumble Bars

why make this recipe

Lemon Crumble Bars are a delightful treat that combines the tangy flavor of fresh lemons with a buttery crumble topping. These bars are not only delicious but also easy to make, making them a perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you need a sweet snack for a picnic, a light dessert after dinner, or something to impress guests, these bars fit the bill. Plus, the fresh lemon adds a refreshing twist that brightens up any day!

how to make Lemon Crumble Bars

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a bowl, mix 1 cup of flour, softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until crumbly. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
3. Bake the crust for about 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, eggs, lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of flour, and lemon zest until smooth.
5. Pour the lemon filling over the baked crust.
6. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until the filling is set and the edges are slightly golden.
7. Allow to cool completely before slicing into bars. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

how to serve Lemon Crumble Bars

These bars are best served chilled or at room temperature. Cut them into squares or rectangles and dust with powdered sugar just before serving. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. Adding some fresh berries on the side can also enhance the presentation and flavor!

how to store Lemon Crumble Bars

To store Lemon Crumble Bars, place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you prefer them to stay fresh longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag.

tips to make Lemon Crumble Bars

1. Use fresh lemons for the best flavor. If possible, avoid bottled lemon juice.
2. Let the bars cool completely before cutting them; this helps them hold their shape better.
3. Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar based on your taste preference, especially if you like a tangy flavor.

variation

If you want to try a different spin on these bars, consider adding a layer of fresh berries, like blueberries or raspberries, between the crust and lemon filling. This adds another dimension of flavor and a lovely color contrast.

FAQs

1. Can I use bottled lemon juice for this recipe?
Yes, you can use bottled lemon juice, but using fresh lemon juice will provide a brighter and fresher flavor.

2. How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the filling is set and the edges are slightly golden. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

3. Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup.

4. How long do Lemon Crumble Bars last?
They can last in the refrigerator for up to one week and can be frozen for up to three months if stored properly.

Lemon Crumble Bars

These delightful Lemon Crumble Bars combine tangy fresh lemon flavor with a buttery crumble topping, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 9 bars

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 210

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the crust

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the filling

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Zest of 1 lemon

For serving

• Powdered sugar for dusting

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a bowl, mix 1 cup of flour, softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until crumbly. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
3. Bake the crust for about 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden.

Making the filling

1. In another bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, eggs, lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of flour, and lemon zest until smooth.
2. Pour the lemon filling over the baked crust.

Baking

1. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until the filling is set and the edges are slightly golden.
2. Allow to cool completely before slicing into bars.
3. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

Best served chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy with vanilla ice cream or fresh berries for an enhanced treat. Use fresh lemons for the best flavor. Let the bars cool completely before cutting for better shape.