Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars

These Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars are a delightful treat that combines a creamy, tangy lemon filling with a buttery brown sugar crust and a crumbly oat topping. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, picnic, or just a sweet indulgence at home, these bars will impress with their bright flavor and satisfying texture. They are easy to make and promise to be a hit!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Crust and Topping:
• For the Lemon Filling:
• How to Make Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Make the Crust & Topping
• Step 3: Form the Crust
• Step 4: Prepare the Lemon Filling
• Step 5: Assemble & Bake
• Step 6: Cool & Serve
• How to Serve Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars
• Pair with Fresh Berries
• Dust with Powdered Sugar
• Serve with Whipped Cream
• Accompany with Ice Cream
• Offer a Citrus Garnish
• Enjoy with Tea or Coffee
• How to Perfect Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars
• Best Side Dishes for Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars
• Reheating Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What are Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars?
• Can I make Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars ahead of time?
• How do I customize my Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars?
• What should I serve with Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The simple steps make whipping up these bars quick and hassle-free.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of tangy lemon and sweet crumb is irresistible.
• Versatile Dessert: Ideal for parties, potlucks, or as an everyday snack.
• Make Ahead Option: These bars can be prepared in advance for convenience.
• Customizable: Swap the oats for crushed graham crackers for a unique twist.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8×8-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Nonstick spray or parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Pan: The right size ensures even baking and easy removal of the bars.
• Mixing Bowls: Having separate bowls helps keep the wet and dry ingredients organized.
• Whisk: A whisk is essential for incorporating air into the mixture for better texture.

Ingredients

These Lemon Crumb Bars feature a creamy, tangy lemon filling sandwiched between a buttery brown sugar crust and a crumbly oat topping. They are simple to make and guaranteed to impress with their delicious flavor and perfect texture.

For the Crust and Topping:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup old-fashioned oats
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 10 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For the Lemon Filling:

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 2 tablespoons sour cream (or plain yogurt)
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon finely grated lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan by lining it with foil or parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal. Lightly spray it with nonstick spray.

Step 2: Make the Crust & Topping

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, salt, and baking soda. In another large bowl, whisk the melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract together for at least 1 minute until fully combined. Stir in the dry ingredients until well mixed.

Step 3: Form the Crust

Remove about 3/4 cup of this mixture and set it aside for the crumb topping. Press the remaining dough evenly into the prepared pan. Don’t worry if it feels very buttery! Bake this crust for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Prepare the Lemon Filling

While your crust bakes, whisk together in another bowl the sweetened condensed milk, sour cream (or yogurt), egg yolk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 5: Assemble & Bake

Once baked, carefully pour the lemon filling over your warm crust and spread it evenly. Gently crumble the reserved dough over this filling. Bake everything together for another 17-20 minutes until lightly golden on top and set in the middle.

Step 6: Cool & Serve

Move your pan to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled down completely, use the overhanging parchment or foil to lift your bars out of the pan. Slice into squares, serve them up, and enjoy!

Remember to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days!

How to Serve Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars

Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways. These bars are perfect for gatherings, picnics, or as an afternoon snack with tea or coffee. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dessert experience.

Pair with Fresh Berries

• Raspberry or Blueberry Topping: Add a handful of fresh berries on top of each bar for a burst of color and flavor. The tartness complements the lemon perfectly.

Dust with Powdered Sugar

• Sweet Finish: Lightly dust the top of the bars with powdered sugar before serving. This adds an elegant touch while enhancing the sweetness.

Serve with Whipped Cream

• Creamy Delight: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top can elevate these bars. It provides a creamy contrast to the tangy lemon filling.

Accompany with Ice Cream

• Ice Cream Sidekick: Serve these bars warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience. The cold ice cream balances the warmth and tanginess of the bars.

Offer a Citrus Garnish

• Lemon Zest Garnish: Sprinkle some additional lemon zest over the bars just before serving for an extra citrus kick and visual appeal.

Enjoy with Tea or Coffee

• Beverage Pairing: These lemon crumb bars pair wonderfully with a cup of herbal tea or coffee. The flavors meld together beautifully, making for a cozy treat.

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How to Perfect Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars

To achieve the best results when making Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars, consider these helpful tips that will ensure deliciousness in every bite.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh lemons for juice and zest. This enhances the flavor and gives your bars a vibrant taste.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough crusts.
• Cool Completely Before Slicing: Allow the bars to cool fully in the pan before slicing. This helps them set properly and prevents them from falling apart.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add other flavors like lime zest or lavender for an interesting twist on the classic recipe.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer sweeter bars, feel free to increase the amount of sugar in both the crust and filling slightly.
• Store Properly: To maintain freshness, store your bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars

Pairing side dishes with your Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the bars.
2. Cheese Platter: Include a variety of cheeses, such as goat cheese or brie, which complement the sweetness of lemon nicely.
3. Simple Green Salad: A light salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette can brighten up your meal while balancing out dessert.
4. Chocolate Mousse: For those who love chocolate, serve a small portion alongside for a decadent combination.
5. Pecan Pie Bites: These little bites offer another texture and flavor that pairs well without overpowering the lemony goodness.
6. Lemon Sorbet: A refreshing sorbet serves as a palate cleanser between bites of rich dessert, enhancing citrus notes overall.
7. Coconut Macaroons: The chewy texture and flavors from coconut provide an interesting contrast to your crumb bars.
8. Mini Cheesecakes: Offering mini cheesecakes can create a delightful dessert platter that caters to various tastes.

These combinations will not only enhance your enjoyment but also impress friends and family at any gathering!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars can be a breeze, but there are some common mistakes that can affect your results.

• Using stale ingredients: Always check the freshness of your baking ingredients. Stale flour or old baking soda can ruin the texture.
• Ignoring cooling time: Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing. Cutting too early can lead to a messy, unstructured slice.
• Not measuring accurately: Use measuring cups and spoons for precise ingredient amounts. Inaccurate measurements can alter the balance of flavors.
• Rushing the crust baking: Bake the crust until slightly golden. This step ensures a firm base and prevents sogginess from the filling.
• Overmixing the filling: Whisk just until combined. Overmixing can introduce air bubbles, affecting the smooth texture of your lemon filling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Time: Store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• • Container: Keep in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Freezing Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars

• • Time: Freeze for up to 3 months.
• • Container: Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil for best results.

Reheating Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in 15-second intervals until warm. Be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat, covering with a lid. This gently warms without drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars?

These bars feature a creamy lemon filling nestled between a buttery crust and crumbly topping, perfect for dessert lovers.

Can I make Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them a day in advance and chill overnight for enhanced flavor and texture.

How do I customize my Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars?

You can add more lemon zest for extra zing or swap oats with crushed graham crackers for a different crunch.

What should I serve with Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars?

Consider serving them with whipped cream or dusted with powdered sugar for added sweetness and presentation.

Final Thoughts

These Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars are not only delicious but also versatile. Their tangy filling and buttery crust make them ideal for any occasion. Feel free to customize this recipe based on your taste preferences!