Catch the essence of spring with a bite of these delicious lemon crumb bars. Imagine the bright sunshine pouring into your kitchen as you whip up this zesty treat that dances on your taste buds with every bite. The buttery crumb crust cradles the tart yet sweet lemon filling like a warm hug from an old friend.
These bars aren’t just desserts; they’re memories waiting to happen. Picture this: family gatherings where laughter fills the air, and someone shouts, “Who brought those heavenly lemon bars?” You’ll want to be that someone! Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or simply as a delightful treat on a lazy afternoon.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These delicious lemon crumb bars are incredibly easy to make, so even novice bakers can shine in the kitchen
- Their vibrant flavor combines sweet and tart notes that please any palate
- Visually stunning with their sunny yellow hue, they brighten up any dessert table
- They’re versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round, whether at summer barbecues or cozy winter evenings
I still remember when I first baked these lemon crumb bars for a family reunion; my cousin declared them “life-changing.” Now that’s the kind of feedback we all crave!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: Essential for the crust and filling; sift it for lightness if you can.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweeten the deal! It balances the tartness of the lemons perfectly.
- Unsalted Butter: Use cold butter for the crust for that flaky texture we all love.
- Lemons: Freshly squeezed is best; bottled juice lacks that vibrant zing.
- Eggs: Two large eggs provide richness and structure in the filling.
- Baking Powder: A must-have leavening agent that adds just enough lift.
- Powdered Sugar: For dusting on top; it adds a touch of sweetness and elegance.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking dish by greasing it lightly with butter to prevent sticking.
Create Your Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, and cold butter until it resembles coarse crumbs. This will be your magical base!
Press Down Firmly: Transfer the mixture into your prepared dish and press down firmly with your hands or a spatula until evenly distributed across the bottom.
Bake the Crust: Place your crust in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes until it turns golden brown. Enjoy that nutty aroma wafting through your kitchen!
Mix Your Filling: While waiting for the crust to bake, whisk together eggs, lemon juice, sugar, baking powder, and flour until smooth. It should look bright and inviting!
Add Filling to Baked Crust: Once your crust is ready and slightly cooled, pour the luscious lemon mixture over it evenly.
Bake Again!: Return your dish to the oven and bake for another 20-25 minutes until set. The edges should be slightly golden and firm but still jiggly in the center.
Let these delicious lemon crumb bars cool completely before slicing them into squares; patience is key here! Dust them with powdered sugar before serving for that professional touch.
Enjoy making this treat as much as you enjoy tasting them! They might just become your new favorite dessert!
You Must Know
- Delicious Lemon Crumb Bars are the perfect balance of sweet and tart, making them a crowd favorite
- Their bright flavor brings sunshine to any gathering, and they are surprisingly easy to make
- A little zest goes a long way in elevating these delightful treats!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your crust first by mixing the ingredients, then bake until golden. While it cools, whisk together the lemon filling for optimal texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out lemon zest with lime or orange for a different citrus twist! You can also add fresh berries on top before serving for an extra burst of flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Lemon Crumb Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When preparing your crust, ensure it’s evenly pressed into the pan for consistent baking
- Zesting lemons?
- Use a microplane for fine zest without the bitter pith
- Always let bars cool completely before cutting to avoid messy edges
I vividly recall the first time I made these bars; my friends devoured them within minutes! Their smiles were worth every zesty squeeze of lemon juice that day.
FAQ
Can I use bottled lemon juice for Delicious Lemon Crumb Bars?
Using fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor in Delicious Lemon Crumb Bars.
How long do Delicious Lemon Crumb Bars last?
Stored properly, Delicious Lemon Crumb Bars can last up to five days in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze Delicious Lemon Crumb Bars?
Yes, you can freeze Delicious Lemon Crumb Bars for up to three months when wrapped well.
Lemon Crumb Bars
Lemon Crumb Bars are the ultimate dessert for citrus lovers, combining the perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors in every bite. With a buttery, crumbly crust and a luscious lemon filling, these bars are not only simple to make but also versatile enough for any occasion—from summer picnics to holiday gatherings. The refreshing burst of citrus brightens your day, making these bars an irresistible treat. Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish, and serve chilled or at room temperature for maximum enjoyment. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving something zesty and sweet, Lemon Crumb Bars are sure to impress.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 large fresh lemons (juiced and zested)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 3 large eggs
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix flour, granulated sugar, and softened butter until crumbly; press into the bottom of the prepared dish.
- Bake the crust for about 15 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool slightly.
- In another bowl, whisk together eggs, granulated sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, baking powder, and flour until smooth; pour over the cooled crust.
- Bake again for 20–25 minutes until set in the center. Cool completely before cutting into squares.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: - Use fresh lemons for optimal flavor; avoid bottled juice. - Allow bars to cool completely in the pan for cleaner cuts. - Customize by reducing sugar or trying different citrus fruits.
