Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars

These Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars are a delightful treat that brings together a creamy, tangy lemon filling and a buttery brown sugar crust. Perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to casual get-togethers, these bars are sure to impress everyone with their delicious flavor and perfect texture. The combination of the sweet crumb topping and zesty lemon filling makes them stand out as a crowd favorite.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• 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
• Enjoy with Whipped Cream
• Serve with Ice Cream
• Add a Dusting of Powdered Sugar
• Drizzle with Lemon Glaze
• Create Mini Dessert Plates
• How to Perfect Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars
• Best Side Dishes for Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars
• Reheating Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use other fruits in these crumb bars?
• How do I know when my Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars are done?
• Can I make these bars gluten-free?
• How do I enhance the flavor of my Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars?
• What’s the best way to serve these bars?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up these bars in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The tangy lemon filling paired with the rich crumb topping creates a burst of flavor that is irresistible.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for summer picnics, holiday parties, or just as an afternoon snack, these bars fit any occasion.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare them a day in advance for the best texture, saving you time on the day of your event.
• Customizable Topping: Switch up the crumb topping by replacing oats with crushed graham crackers for a unique twist.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8×8-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Whisk
• Parchment paper or foil
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Pan: A sturdy 8×8-inch pan ensures even baking for your bars.
• Mixing Bowls: Using separate bowls helps keep wet and dry ingredients organized for better mixing.
• Whisk: An effective tool for combining ingredients smoothly, especially important for the creamy lemon filling.

Ingredients

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

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How to Make Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 2: Make the Crust & Topping

In a medium bowl, whisk together the following dry ingredients:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Old-fashioned oats
3. Salt
4. Baking soda

In a separate large bowl, whisk together until fully combined:
1. Melted unsalted butter
2. Lightly packed brown sugar
3. Vanilla extract

Stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until well mixed.

Step 3: Form the Crust

Remove about 3/4 cup of this mixture and set it aside for crumbling on top later. Press the remaining dough evenly into the prepared pan. Don’t worry if it feels very buttery; that’s how it should be! Bake this crust for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Prepare the Lemon Filling

While your crust is baking, combine in a bowl:
1. Sweetened condensed milk
2. Sour cream (or plain yogurt)
3. One large egg yolk
4. Freshly squeezed lemon juice
5. Finely grated lemon zest
6. Additional vanilla extract

Whisk these ingredients together until smooth.

Step 5: Assemble & Bake

Once your crust is baked and still warm, pour the lemon filling over it gently and spread evenly without disturbing the crust too much. Crumble the reserved dough over this filling.

Bake everything together for an additional 17-20 minutes or until you see that the top is lightly golden and filling is set.

Step 6: Cool & Serve

Transfer your pan to a wire rack to cool completely. After cooling, use the parchment or foil overhang to lift out your bars from the pan easily. Slice them into squares and enjoy!

How to Serve Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars

Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars are not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some creative ways to present and enjoy these delightful treats.

Pair with Fresh Berries

• Serve alongside a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a refreshing contrast to the tangy lemon filling.

Enjoy with Whipped Cream

• Top each bar with a dollop of freshly whipped cream to enhance the creamy texture and add extra sweetness.

Serve with Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla or lemon sorbet on the side can create a delightful cold treat that complements the flavors.

Add a Dusting of Powdered Sugar

• Lightly dust the bars with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant finish that adds a touch of sweetness.

Drizzle with Lemon Glaze

• Mix powdered sugar with lemon juice to create a simple glaze, then drizzle it over the bars for added flavor and visual appeal.

Create Mini Dessert Plates

• Cut the bars into smaller squares and serve them on dessert plates alongside coffee or tea for an afternoon treat.

How to Perfect Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars

To achieve the best results with your Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars, consider these helpful tips that will elevate your baking experience.

• Use Fresh Lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest will provide a brighter flavor than bottled options, enhancing the overall taste of your bars.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the bars cool completely in the refrigerator allows them to set properly, making slicing easier and improving texture.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your bars as they bake; every oven is different. Bake until the top is golden and the filling is just set for perfect results.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add ingredients like coconut flakes or chopped nuts to your crumb topping for added texture and flavor variations.
• Cut Evenly: Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water for clean cuts, resulting in neat squares that look great on your serving plate.
• Store Properly: To maintain freshness, store your bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This helps preserve their flavor and prevents them from drying out.

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Best Side Dishes for Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars

When enjoying Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars, pairing them with complementary side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Mint Tea: A refreshing mint tea can cleanse the palate and balance the richness of the crumb bars.
2. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad featuring melons, citrus, and stone fruits adds freshness that contrasts nicely with the tangy lemon flavor.
3. Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like goat cheese or brie along with crackers; their creaminess pairs well with the tartness of lemon bars.
4. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: The sweetness of chocolate-coated strawberries creates a delightful combination when served alongside lemon treats.
5. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy cookies bring an exotic flavor that complements the citrus notes beautifully.
6. Pistachio Ice Cream: The nutty flavor of pistachios adds a unique twist when served next to lemon crumb bars, creating an unforgettable dessert duo.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results.

• Skipping the Cooling Time: Allowing the bars to cool completely is crucial for them to set properly. Cutting them too soon will result in a messy slice.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science. Use proper measuring tools to ensure each ingredient is measured correctly for the best texture and flavor.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can make the crust tough. Mix just until combined for a crumbly, buttery crust.
• Using Bottled Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice provides a bright flavor that bottled juice cannot match. Always opt for freshly squeezed lemon juice.
• Ignoring Oven Temperatures: Every oven is different. Always check your bars a few minutes before the recommended baking time to avoid overbaking.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Freezing Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars

• If you want to keep them longer, freeze the bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the bars in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: For quick reheating, place one or two bars on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a non-stick skillet over low heat, warming gently until they are heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other fruits in these crumb bars?

Yes! You can substitute lemon with other fruits like lime or berries for a different flavor profile.

How do I know when my Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars are done?

The top should be lightly golden, and the filling should be set but still slightly jiggly when pulled from the oven.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free flour and oats as substitutes for traditional flour and oats.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars?

Consider adding extra lemon zest or even some almond extract for an additional layer of flavor.

What’s the best way to serve these bars?

For an elegant touch, dust with powdered sugar before serving or pair with whipped cream.

Final Thoughts

These Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars are not only delicious but also versatile enough to customize according to your taste. Whether you stick with classic lemon or experiment with other flavors, these treats are sure to impress. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delightful combination of tangy lemon and crumbly goodness!