Lemon Crumb Bars

These Lemon Crumb Bars are a delightful blend of tangy and sweet flavors, perfect for any occasion. With their buttery crumb crust and smooth lemon filling, they make a refreshing dessert that brightens up summer picnics, dinner parties, or simply a cozy night at home. Easy to prepare and utterly delicious, these bars are sure to impress family and friends alike!

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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:
• For the Lemon Filling:
• How to Make Lemon Crumb Bars
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Make the Crust
• Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Filling
• Step 4: Assemble and Bake
• Step 5: Cool and Chill
• How to Serve Lemon Crumb Bars
• Garnish with Fresh Berries
• Pair with Whipped Cream
• Serve with Tea or Coffee
• Add a Dusting of Powdered Sugar
• Enjoy as Part of a Dessert Platter
• Slice into Smaller Portions for Parties
• How to Perfect Lemon Crumb Bars
• Best Side Dishes for Lemon Crumb Bars
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Lemon Crumb Bars
• Reheating Lemon Crumb Bars
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
• How should I cut my Lemon Crumb Bars?
• Can I add fruit to my Lemon Crumb Bars?
• Why is my filling runny?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The straightforward steps make this recipe perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Flavorful: The combination of fresh lemon juice and creamy filling creates a vibrant taste.
• Versatile Treat: Great for summer gatherings, holiday parties, or just a sweet snack.
• Make Ahead: These bars can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for convenience.
• Perfectly Sweetened: The balance of sweetness from the crust and tartness from the filling is simply irresistible.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare these lemon crumb bars, you will need some essential tools to ensure your baking goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×9-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×9-inch baking pan: This size is ideal for even baking and portion control.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes allows you to mix ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending the lemon filling until smooth without lumps.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 2 ⅓ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon baking powder
• 12 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled

For the Lemon Filling:

• 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
• 4 large egg yolks, room temperature
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• ⅛ teaspoon salt
• ⅔ cup fresh lemon juice (about 4-5 lemons)

How to Make Lemon Crumb Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Crust

1. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, salt, and baking powder until well combined.
2. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture is crumbly.
3. Press about two-thirds of this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until lightly golden.

Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Filling

1. In another large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, heavy cream, and salt until smooth.
2. Gradually add in the fresh lemon juice while continuing to whisk until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

1. Carefully pour the lemon filling over the hot crust in your baking pan.
2. Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture evenly over the top of the filling.
3. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and set.

Step 5: Cool and Chill

Allow your lemon crumb bars to cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating them for at least four hours. Once chilled, slice them into squares for serving.

Enjoy your refreshing Lemon Crumb Bars!

How to Serve Lemon Crumb Bars

Lemon crumb bars are a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply treating yourself, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

Garnish with Fresh Berries

• Raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries add a burst of color and freshness that complements the tangy lemon flavor.

Pair with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of fresh whipped cream enhances the creaminess of the filling and adds a light touch to each bite.

Serve with Tea or Coffee

• The zesty flavors of lemon crumb bars pair wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making it a perfect afternoon treat.

Add a Dusting of Powdered Sugar

• A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top not only looks beautiful but also adds an extra hint of sweetness.

Enjoy as Part of a Dessert Platter

• Combine lemon crumb bars with other desserts like brownies or cookies for a varied dessert platter that’s perfect for gatherings.

Slice into Smaller Portions for Parties

• Cut the bars into bite-sized pieces for easy serving at parties. This allows guests to sample multiple treats without overindulging.

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How to Perfect Lemon Crumb Bars

To achieve the best lemon crumb bars, follow these helpful tips that will ensure your dessert is both delicious and visually appealing.

• Use Fresh Lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice elevates the flavor compared to bottled juice, providing vibrant taste.

• Don’t Overmix the Crust: Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to tough crusts instead of crumbly goodness.

• Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool at room temperature before refrigerating. This helps them set properly without becoming soggy.

• Slice When Chilled: For clean cuts and neat slices, refrigerate the bars for at least four hours before cutting them.

• Experiment with Flavors: Add zest from lemons or other citrus fruits to enhance the flavor profile even more.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Crumb Bars

Lemon crumb bars make a fantastic dessert, but they can be even better when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Minted Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits tossed with mint leaves adds brightness alongside lemon flavors.

2. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats provide a contrasting texture that pairs nicely with the creamy lemon filling.

3. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: The combination of rich chocolate and tart strawberries makes an indulgent side that balances well.

4. Pistachio Ice Cream: The nutty flavor and creamy texture create an exquisite pairing for your lemon crumb bars.

5. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a wholesome side that offers creaminess and crunch.

6. Lemon Sorbet: Keep it citrusy! This frozen treat provides a refreshing contrast and enhances the overall lemon theme.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Lemon Crumb Bars can be simple, but a few common errors can affect the final product. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use proper measuring cups and spoons to ensure the right ratios for the crust and filling.
• Skipping the cooling time: Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating. This helps set the filling properly.
• Using cold eggs: Room temperature eggs blend better into the lemon filling, making it smoother and creamier.
• Overbaking the crust: Keep an eye on your crust while baking. It should be lightly golden, not dark brown, to avoid a dry texture.
• Cutting too soon: Wait at least 4 hours in the fridge before slicing. This allows the filling to firm up for cleaner cuts.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Freezing Lemon Crumb Bars

• Place bars in an airtight container or wrap in plastic wrap.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Lemon Crumb Bars

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 15-30 seconds, checking frequently to prevent overheating.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a pan over low heat. Cover and warm gently, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions readers often have about making Lemon Crumb Bars:

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Using fresh lemon juice is best for flavor, but bottled juice works in a pinch if you lack fresh lemons.

How should I cut my Lemon Crumb Bars?

Use a sharp knife and clean it between cuts for neat slices. A warm knife makes cutting easier!

Can I add fruit to my Lemon Crumb Bars?

Absolutely! Berries or sliced strawberries can be mixed into the filling or used as a topping.

Why is my filling runny?

If your filling is runny, it could be due to undercooking or not allowing enough cooling time. Ensure it’s set before slicing.

Final Thoughts

These Lemon Crumb Bars are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Their tangy flavor combined with a buttery crumb makes them irresistible. Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings or experiment with additional flavors like lime or orange zest. Don’t hesitate—give this recipe a try today!