Lemon Crumb Bars are a delightful dessert that combines a buttery, crumbly crust with a zesty lemon filling for a perfect balance of sweet and tangy. These bars are easy to make and are great for any occasion—whether it’s a family gathering, a picnic, or simply when you’re craving something refreshing and delicious. The bright citrus flavor of the lemon pairs beautifully with the rich, buttery crumbs, making these bars a crowd-pleaser every time.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Tips for Perfect Lemon Crumb Bars
- Recipe Variations
- FAQs
- Serving Suggestions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
For the Crust and Crumb Topping
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
- 1 large egg
For the Lemon Filling
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 large eggs
Instructions
Prepare the Crust and Topping
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Incorporate the Butter: Add the cold butter cubes to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg and continue mixing until combined. The mixture should be crumbly.
- Press the Crust: Press about two-thirds of the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form an even layer. Reserve the remaining crumb mixture for the topping.
Prepare the Lemon Filling
- Mix the Filling: In a medium bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, flour, lemon juice, lemon zest, and eggs until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the Filling: Pour the lemon filling evenly over the crust in the baking dish.
Add the Topping and Bake
- Add the Crumb Topping: Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture evenly over the lemon filling.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the filling is set. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
Tips for Perfect Lemon Crumb Bars
- Use Fresh Lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest provide the best flavor for these bars. Avoid bottled lemon juice for a fresher, more vibrant taste.
- Chill Before Cutting: Let the bars cool completely before cutting to ensure clean slices. You can even refrigerate them for easier slicing.
- Press the Crust Firmly: Make sure to press the crust mixture firmly into the pan so it holds together well when baked.
Recipe Variations
- Berry Lemon Crumb Bars: Add 1/2 cup of fresh or frozen raspberries or blueberries to the lemon filling for a fruity twist.
- Lemon Lime Bars: Substitute half of the lemon juice with lime juice for a zesty lemon-lime combination.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these bars gluten-free.
FAQs
Q: How do I store Lemon Crumb Bars?
A: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Q: Can I freeze these bars?
A: Yes, Lemon Crumb Bars freeze well. Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Q: Can I use bottled lemon juice?
A: Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, bottled lemon juice can be used.
Serving Suggestions
- With Whipped Cream: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
- With Fresh Berries: Garnish with fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries to add a burst of color and flavor.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: Lightly dust the bars with powdered sugar before serving for a beautiful presentation.
Lemon Crumb Bars are the perfect combination of tart and sweet, with a buttery crumb topping that makes them irresistible. Whether you’re serving them for a family gathering or just as a treat for yourself, these bars are sure to be a hit. Easy to make and bursting with bright lemon flavor, this dessert is both refreshing and satisfying. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delightful taste of these zesty, crumbly bars!
