Lemon Crumb Bars are a delightful treat that combines the bright, zesty flavor of lemons with a buttery, crumbly crust. These bars are perfect for those who love a balance of sweet and tangy flavors, making them an ideal dessert or snack for any occasion. With a rich, creamy lemon filling and a crisp, crumbly topping, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Ingredients
For the Crust and Crumb Topping:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: The butter forms the base of the crust and crumb topping, providing richness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Flour gives structure to the crust and crumb topping, ensuring they hold together while still being tender.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the crust and helps with browning.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Provides a slight lift, making the crust and topping light and crumbly.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness.
For the Lemon Filling:
- 2 large eggs: Eggs help set the filling, making it rich and custardy.
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk: This adds creaminess and sweetness to the filling, balancing the tartness of the lemon.
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons): The star ingredient, lemon juice, gives the filling its tangy flavor.
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from one lemon): Zest intensifies the lemon flavor, adding a fresh, aromatic touch.
Optional for Garnish:
- Powdered sugar for dusting: Adds a finishing touch of sweetness and a professional look to the bars.
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Crust and Crumb Topping:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Use a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingers to mix the ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Reserve 1 cup of the crumb mixture for the topping. Press the remaining crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the crust. Make sure it’s evenly distributed and compacted.
- Bake the Crust:
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until it turns lightly golden around the edges. This step ensures a sturdy base for the lemon filling.
- Prepare the Lemon Filling:
- While the crust is baking, whisk together the eggs, sweetened condensed milk, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest in a medium bowl. Whisk until smooth and well combined, making sure the lemon juice is fully incorporated.
- Assemble the Bars:
- Once the crust is done baking, remove it from the oven and pour the lemon filling evenly over the hot crust. Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture over the top of the lemon filling, creating a crumbly topping.
- Bake the Bars:
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is set. You’ll know it’s done when the center no longer jiggles when the pan is gently shaken.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the Lemon Crumb Bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, you can dust the top with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and presentation.
- Cut into squares or bars and serve. These bars can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.
Tips and Variations
- Make-Ahead: Lemon Crumb Bars can be made a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Add a Berry Twist: For a fruity variation, add a layer of fresh or frozen raspberries or blueberries between the crust and the lemon filling.
- Coconut Variation: Add shredded coconut to the crumb topping for a tropical twist that pairs well with the lemon flavor.
Lemon Crumb Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the bright, tangy flavor of lemons with a buttery, crumbly texture. They’re easy to make and perfect for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to special celebrations. With their refreshing lemon filling and sweet, crisp topping, these bars are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you serve them as a sweet ending to a meal or a midday treat, these Lemon Crumb Bars will become a beloved recipe in your kitchen.
