Lemon Crumb Bars

These Lemon Crumb Bars are a delightful treat that perfectly balances tangy and sweet flavors. With their buttery, crumbly crust and smooth, creamy lemon filling, they are ideal for summer gatherings or any time you have a craving for something zesty. These bars stand out not only for their taste but also for their simple preparation. Once you try them, you’ll want to make them for every occasion!

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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
• For Garnish
• 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
• With Fresh Berries
• Topped with Whipped Cream
• Drizzled with Lemon Glaze
• Paired with Ice Cream
• On a Dessert Platter
• Garnished with Mint Leaves
• 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
• How do I make my Lemon Crumb Bars more tart?
• Can I use gluten-free flour for Lemon Crumb Bars?
• How should I serve Lemon Crumb Bars?
• What makes these Lemon Crumb Bars different from regular lemon bars?
• Can I customize my Lemon Crumb Bars?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal effort and uses straightforward ingredients, making it accessible for all skill levels.
• Refreshing Flavor: The combination of fresh lemon juice and creamy filling delivers a refreshing taste that’s perfect for warm days.
• Versatile Dessert: These bars can be enjoyed at picnics, parties, or just as a sweet treat at home. They fit any occasion!
• Make Ahead: You can prepare these bars in advance and store them in the fridge, making them perfect for busy schedules.
• Perfect Balance: The balance of tart and sweet flavors ensures that everyone will love these delicious treats.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×9-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Pan: A sturdy 9×9-inch pan ensures even baking and helps achieve that perfect texture.
• Parchment Paper: Lining your pan with parchment makes it easy to remove the bars once they’re baked without sticking.
• Mixing Bowls: Having multiple bowls allows you to keep ingredients organized while mixing.

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)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Lemon Crumb Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 2: Make the Crust

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, salt, and baking powder.
2. Pour in the melted butter and mix until the mixture is crumbly.
3. Press about two-thirds of this mixture evenly into the prepared pan.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 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 well combined.
2. Gradually add the lemon juice while whisking until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the lemon filling over the hot crust.
2. Evenly sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the top.
3. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until golden brown on top and set in the middle.

Step 5: Cool and Chill

Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours. This chilling step is crucial for slicing clean bars.

These delicious Lemon Crumb Bars are now ready to serve! Dust with powdered sugar if desired for an added touch of sweetness before slicing into squares. Enjoy!

How to Serve Lemon Crumb Bars

Lemon crumb bars are a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these bars can be served in various styles to enhance their citrusy flavor.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve the lemon crumb bars alongside a mix of fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a burst of color and added sweetness.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top adds a creamy texture that balances the tartness of the lemon filling.

Drizzled with Lemon Glaze

• Consider drizzling a simple lemon glaze over the bars to amplify the lemon flavor and add a glossy finish.

Paired with Ice Cream

• These bars pair beautifully with vanilla or lemon ice cream, providing a cool and creamy contrast to the zesty treat.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange slices of lemon crumb bars on a dessert platter with other treats like cookies or brownies for an appealing display at parties.

Garnished with Mint Leaves

• Add fresh mint leaves as a garnish for an extra touch of freshness and color that complements the lemon flavor perfectly.

How to Perfect Lemon Crumb Bars

To ensure your lemon crumb bars turn out delicious every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice enhances the flavor significantly compared to bottled juice.
• Chill Before Slicing: Letting the bars chill in the refrigerator for at least four hours helps them set properly for clean slices.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on baking time; overbaking can lead to a dry filling. Look for a golden top and set filling.
• Measure Accurately: Accurate measurements ensure the right texture. Use a kitchen scale if possible for precision.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring ingredients like eggs are at room temperature helps create a smooth filling without lumps.
• Cool Completely: Allowing the bars to cool completely before slicing prevents them from falling apart when served.

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Best Side Dishes for Lemon Crumb Bars

Serving lemon crumb bars alongside complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the richness of the bars.
2. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt, granola, and honey create a creamy and crunchy contrast perfect alongside your crumb bars.
3. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats bring an additional layer of sweetness and texture that pairs well with tangy lemon flavors.
4. Lemon Sorbet: A refreshing scoop of lemon sorbet can intensify the citrus theme while providing a cooling effect.
5. Creamy Custard: A rich vanilla custard is indulgent and offers a smooth texture that contrasts nicely with the crumbly bars.
6. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: The sweetness of chocolate-covered strawberries complements the tartness of lemon while adding visual appeal.
7. Cheese Plate: A selection of soft cheeses with crackers makes for an elegant pairing that balances flavors beautifully.
8. Almond Biscotti: Crunchy almond biscotti provides another texture that pairs delightfully with coffee or tea served alongside your dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating delicious Lemon Crumb Bars can be simple, but some common mistakes can ruin your dessert. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Incorrect Measurements: Using too much or too little of an ingredient can affect the texture and flavor. Always use precise measurements for the crust and filling.
• Skipping the Cooling Step: Cutting into the bars before they cool completely can cause them to fall apart. Allow them to set at room temperature before refrigerating.
• Not Using Fresh Lemons: Bottled lemon juice lacks the vibrant flavor of fresh lemons. Always use fresh lemon juice for the best taste in your lemon crumb bars.
• Overbaking the Crust: Baking the crust too long can lead to a dry texture. Keep an eye on it and remove it as soon as it’s lightly golden.
• Ignoring Chilling Time: These bars need time to chill in the fridge after baking. Skipping this step will result in a soft filling that won’t hold its shape.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Lemon Crumb Bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• • Container: Use an airtight container to keep them fresh and prevent drying out.

Freezing Lemon Crumb Bars

• • Duration: They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• • Container: Store in an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap before freezing.

Reheating Lemon Crumb Bars

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the bars for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual servings in short bursts of 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a bar in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for a few minutes until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make my Lemon Crumb Bars more tart?

Adding extra lemon juice or zest enhances tartness. You can adjust according to your preference while making the filling.

Can I use gluten-free flour for Lemon Crumb Bars?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure it’s suitable for baking to maintain the texture.

How should I serve Lemon Crumb Bars?

Dust with powdered sugar right before serving for an appealing finish. They pair well with whipped cream or fresh berries.

What makes these Lemon Crumb Bars different from regular lemon bars?

The crumbly crust adds a unique texture compared to traditional lemon bars, which usually have a smoother base.

Can I customize my Lemon Crumb Bars?

Absolutely! You can add poppy seeds or even blueberries for added flavor and texture variations.

Final Thoughts

Lemon Crumb Bars are a delightful treat that perfectly balances sweet and tangy flavors. Their buttery crust pairs beautifully with the creamy lemon filling, making them ideal for any occasion. Feel free to customize them by adding fruits or toppings according to your taste!