Zesty Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe: A Sunny Sweet Treat

Sweet and zesty lemon crumb bars dance between tangy brightness and buttery comfort.

Crisp shortbread crusts provide the perfect foundation for these citrusy delights.

Delicate crumbles create a textural masterpiece that melts in your mouth.

Sunshine-infused flavors burst through each delectable bite, promising pure enjoyment.

Homemade desserts like these connect us to simple kitchen magic.

Baking brings pure joy, turning ordinary ingredients into extraordinary memories.

Whip up these bars and watch smiles bloom around your table.

How To Keep Lemon Crumb Bars Fresh

• Seal lemon crumb bars in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keep layers separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months without losing quality or taste.
• Transfer frozen bars to the refrigerator overnight. Let them sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to restore their original texture.
• Warm bars briefly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or place in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5 minutes to restore their fresh-baked warmth and crisp crumb topping.

Lemon Crumb Bars FAQ Guide

• How do I get the perfect crumb texture?

Use cold butter and mix it with the dry ingredients until it resembles coarse, pea-sized crumbs. Don’t overmix, as this can make the crumb too dense and tough.

• Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor and brightness. Bottled juice can work, but it might lack the vibrant citrus taste and can sometimes taste slightly metallic.

• Why do I need to refrigerate the bars?

Chilling helps the bars set properly, allowing the filling to firm up and making them easier to cut into clean, neat squares. It also enhances the flavor and texture of the dessert.

What Makes Lemon Crumb Bars So Tasty

• Conquer Baking Complexity: Perfect for bakers of all skill levels, this recipe breaks down intricate steps into simple, manageable instructions that transform novice cooks into confident dessert makers.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Delivers a delightful balance of tangy lemon and sweet crumb topping that appeals to both kids and adults, making it an ideal treat for family gatherings, potlucks, or weekend celebrations.
• Quick Preparation Magic: Requires minimal ingredients and straightforward techniques, allowing you to create a stunning dessert without spending hours in the kitchen or needing advanced culinary skills.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator, providing stress-free entertaining and ensuring you always have a delicious dessert ready to serve at a moment's notice.

What You’ll Use For Lemon Crumb Bars

• Flour: A key component that provides structure and texture to the crumb bars.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a crisp crumb base.
• Brown Sugar: Contributes depth of flavor and moisture to the crumb mixture.
• Baking Powder: Helps the crust achieve a light and airy texture.

• Melted Butter: Binds the dry ingredients together and adds rich flavor to the crust.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: Creates a smooth and creamy lemon filling.
• Egg Yolks: Provide richness and help set the lemon filling.
• Heavy Cream: Adds smoothness and contributes to the creamy texture of the filling.

• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Lemon Juice: Provides the signature tangy and bright flavor of the bars.

• Parchment Paper: Ensures easy removal of the bars from the baking pan and prevents sticking.

How To Bake Lemon Crumb Bars Without Fuss

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grab a 9×9-inch baking pan and line it completely with parchment paper, ensuring the paper covers the bottom and sides for easy removal later.

Step 2: Create the Crumb Base

• All-purpose flour
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Salt
• Baking powder

Pour in melted butter and mix until the mixture transforms into a delightful, crumbly texture that resembles wet sand.

Step 3: Form the Crust

Press about two-thirds of the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan. Make sure to create a compact, even layer that will serve as the delicious foundation for your bars.

Step 4: Initial Baking

Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. Watch for a light golden color to develop, which signals the crust is perfectly par-baked.

Step 5: Whip Up the Lemon Filling

• Sweetened condensed milk
• Egg yolks
• Heavy cream
• Salt

Gradually pour in lemon juice, whisking continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and fully incorporated.

Step 6: Assemble the Bars

Pour the vibrant lemon filling over the hot crust, ensuring it spreads evenly across the surface.

Step 7: Add Crumb Topping

Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture across the top of the lemon filling, creating a gorgeous, textured surface.

Step 8: Final Baking

Return the pan to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Look for a golden-brown topping and a set filling that jiggles slightly when gently shaken.

Step 9: Cool and Chill

Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature. Then transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours to help the bars set and develop their full flavor.

Step 10: Slice and Serve

Remove from the refrigerator, lift out using the parchment paper, and slice into beautiful squares. Serve chilled and enjoy the perfect balance of buttery crust and tangy lemon filling.

Tips That Help With Lemon Crumb Bars

• Choose Fresh Lemons: Select ripe, firm lemons with smooth skin for the most vibrant and tangy flavor in your bars.
• Prevent Soggy Crust: Allow the initial crust to cool slightly before adding the lemon filling to maintain a crisp texture.
• Smooth Filling Technique: Whisk the lemon mixture slowly and consistently to avoid lumps and create a silky, creamy filling.
• Chill for Perfect Slicing: Refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours to help them set properly and make clean, neat cuts.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Use eggs and dairy at room temperature to ensure smoother mixing and better overall texture.

Different Spins On Lemon Crumb Bars To Try

• Citrus Sunset Bars: Replace lemon juice with blood orange juice for a vibrant, deep-colored dessert with a slightly sweeter profile.
• Gluten-Free Zesty Bars: Swap wheat flour with almond or coconut flour to create a gluten-free version that's equally delicious and tender.
• Dairy-Free Lemon Dream: Use coconut condensed milk and coconut cream instead of traditional dairy ingredients for a rich, plant-based alternative that maintains the creamy texture.
• Low-Sugar Wellness Bars: Substitute granulated sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia to reduce overall sugar content while keeping the classic lemon bar essence.

Perfect Pairings With Lemon Crumb Bars

• Pair with Crisp White Wine: Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio's citrusy and light profiles beautifully complement the lemon bar's tangy sweetness, creating a refreshing taste experience.
• Elevate with Lavender Tea: Brew a delicate lavender tea that softens the bar's intense citrus notes, providing a soothing floral undertone that enhances the dessert's complexity.
• Match with Fresh Berries: Serve alongside fresh raspberries or blueberries to add a bright, juicy contrast that cuts through the richness of the lemon crumb bars and provides a vibrant palate cleanser.
• Serve with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Scoop creamy vanilla bean ice cream next to the bars, letting the cold, smooth texture and subtle sweetness balance the zesty lemon filling and crumbly base.

Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe

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4.5 from 27 reviews

• Total Time: Approximately 4 hours 45 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Zesty lemon crumb bars bring sunshine to your dessert table with buttery, crumbly layers of pure citrus delight. Creamy filling nestled between crisp shortbread crust and golden streusel topping promises a refreshing slice of sweet-tart perfection you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

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Lemon Crumb Bars Ingredients:

Crumb Base and Topping:

• 2 1/3 cups (280 grams) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (100 grams) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (100 grams) light brown sugar
• 12 tablespoons (170 grams) unsalted butter
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder

Lemon Filling:

• 1 14-ounce (397 grams) can sweetened condensed milk
• 4 large egg yolks
• 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) heavy cream
• 2/3 cup (160 milliliters) fresh lemon juice
• 1/8 teaspoon salt

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Instructions

1. Prepare oven to 350°F and position rack in center of oven.
2. Create a parchment paper sling in a 9×9-inch baking pan for easy removal.
3. Blend dry ingredients including flour, sugars, salt, and baking powder in a spacious mixing bowl.
4. Drizzle melted butter over dry mixture and work with fingertips until achieving a sandy, crumbly consistency.
5. Transfer ⅔ of crumb mixture into prepared pan, pressing firmly and evenly to create a compact base layer.
6. Bake base for 15 minutes until edges turn pale golden and surface looks slightly set.
7. Whisk condensed milk, egg yolks, heavy cream, and salt in a separate mixing bowl until smooth.
8. Introduce fresh lemon juice gradually, stirring constantly to maintain a uniform texture.
9. Carefully pour lemon filling over hot crust, ensuring even distribution.
10. Scatter remaining crumb mixture across the surface in a gentle, uniform layer.
11. Return pan to oven and bake 15-20 minutes until topping turns golden and filling appears slightly firm with a gentle wobble.
12. Remove from oven and allow bars to cool completely at room temperature.
13. Chill in refrigerator for minimum 4 hours to set and enhance flavor development.
14. Cut into precise squares and serve chilled.

Notes

• Customize crumb texture by adjusting butter temperature, ensuring a perfectly sandy and crisp base.
• Experiment with different citrus juices like lime or grapefruit for unique flavor variations that complement the sweet base.
• Chill bars completely to achieve clean, precise cutting lines and allow flavors to develop and intensify.
• Use room temperature ingredients for smoother lemon filling and more consistent baking results.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 271 kcal
• Sugar: 19 g
• Sodium: 123 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 33 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 75 mg