Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars

These Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. With a tangy lemon filling nestled between a buttery brown sugar crust and a crumbly oat topping, these bars combine rich flavors and textures that will impress your friends and family. Whether you’re hosting a summer picnic or enjoying a quiet afternoon at home, these luscious bars are sure to brighten your day.

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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: Prepare the Pan
• Step 3: Make the Crust & Topping
• Step 4: Form the Crust
• Step 5: Prepare the Lemon Filling
• Step 6: Assemble & Bake
• Step 7: Cool & Serve
• How to Serve Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars
• With Fresh Berries
• Topped with Whipped Cream
• Drizzled with Chocolate
• Paired with Tea or Coffee
• Served Chilled
• Dusting with Powdered Sugar
• How to Perfect Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars
• Best Side Dishes for Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars
• Reheating Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I make Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars gluten-free?
• How do I enhance the flavor of my bars?
• What can I use instead of sour cream?
• How do I prevent my crust from being too crumbly?
• Can I double this recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The simple steps ensure that even beginners can whip up these delicious bars without any hassle.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of zesty lemon and sweet brown sugar creates an irresistible balance that tantalizes your taste buds.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for parties, picnics, or just because! These bars suit a variety of occasions and can be enjoyed by everyone.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare them in advance and store in the fridge for a convenient dessert option that’s ready when you are.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: Dusting with powdered sugar gives these bars a lovely finish that makes them look as good as they taste.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars, you’ll need some essential tools to help you along the way. Having the right equipment not only makes the process smoother but also ensures better results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8×8-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Parchment paper or foil

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Pan: The right size ensures even cooking; an 8×8-inch pan is ideal for this recipe.
• Mixing Bowls: Having separate bowls helps in combining ingredients effectively without mess.
• Whisk: A whisk guarantees smooth mixing of wet ingredients, especially important for the 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). This ensures even baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Pan

Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with foil or parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal. Spray it lightly with nonstick spray.

Step 3: Make the Crust & Topping

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, salt, and baking soda. In another large bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until fully combined. Stir in the dry ingredients until well mixed.

Step 4: Form the Crust

Set aside about 3/4 cup of the mixture for topping. Press the remaining dough evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes.

Step 5: Prepare the Lemon Filling

While the crust bakes, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, sour cream (or yogurt), egg yolk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth.

Step 6: Assemble & Bake

Pour the lemon filling over the warm crust. Gently spread it out. Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture on top. Bake for 17-20 minutes until lightly golden on top and filling is set.

Step 7: Cool & Serve

Let it cool on a wire rack completely. Use parchment or foil overhang to lift out of the pan once cooled. Slice into squares and enjoy!

How to Serve Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars

These Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars are delightful on their own, but they can be enhanced with a few creative serving ideas. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet afternoon, here are some suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve the bars alongside a mix of fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a burst of flavor and color.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each bar to enrich the creamy lemon filling and give it a luxurious feel.

Drizzled with Chocolate

• A light drizzle of dark or white chocolate adds a sweet touch that contrasts beautifully with the tangy lemon.

Paired with Tea or Coffee

• Enjoy these bars with a cup of herbal tea or strong coffee to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors.

Served Chilled

• For an extra refreshing treat, chill the bars in the refrigerator before serving. This makes them even more enjoyable on warm days.

Dusting with Powdered Sugar

• Lightly dusting each bar with powdered sugar right before serving adds an elegant finish and extra sweetness.

How to Perfect Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars

Perfecting your Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your bars turn out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Lemons: Fresh lemon juice and zest provide the best flavor. Avoid bottled lemon juice for optimal taste.
• Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting. This helps them set properly and makes slicing easier.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer less tartness, adjust the amount of lemon juice according to your taste preferences.
• Check Doneness: Keep an eye on the baking time; they should be golden brown on top and not jiggly in the center when done.
• Chill Before Serving: Refrigerating the bars for several hours after baking enhances their texture and makes them easier to cut.
• Experiment with Variations: Feel free to add different flavors like coconut or swap lemon for lime for a fun twist.

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Best Side Dishes for Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars

These Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars pair well with various side dishes that complement their bright flavor. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing medley of seasonal fruits that adds natural sweetness and balances the tartness of the bars.
2. Greek Yogurt Parfait
   Layer creamy yogurt with granola and berries for a wholesome side that pairs nicely with dessert.
3. Ice Cream
   A scoop of vanilla or lemon sorbet adds creaminess and cooling contrast to warm crumb bars.
4. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses like brie or goat cheese offers savory notes that can enhance the overall dessert experience.
5. Panna Cotta
   A smooth, creamy panna cotta provides an elegant touch when served alongside lemon crumb bars.
6. Coconut Macaroons
   These chewy treats provide another layer of sweetness while maintaining a light texture alongside your dessert.
7. Almond Biscotti
   Crunchy biscotti make an excellent companion that you can dip into coffee or tea while enjoying your bars.
8. Lemon Sorbet
   For those who love citrus, this refreshing sorbet can be both a palate cleanser and a delightful pairing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars turn out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Skipping the Cooling Time: Allowing the bars to cool completely is essential for achieving a neat slice. Patience will pay off!
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Using too much or too little of any ingredient can throw off the balance. Always measure precisely with the right tools.
• Ignoring the Baking Time: Overbaking or underbaking can ruin the texture. Keep a close eye and follow the recommended baking time.
• Using Bottled Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice and zest are vital for flavor. Opt for freshly squeezed lemons to enhance your bars.
• Not Lining the Pan Properly: Failing to line your baking pan makes removal difficult. Be sure to use foil or parchment paper for easy lifting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store your Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars in an airtight container.
• item They can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator without losing flavor.

Freezing Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars

• item For longer storage, freeze the bars in an airtight container.
• item They can be kept frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds until slightly warm.
• Stovetop: Place a bar in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for a few minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring it has a similar texture.

How do I enhance the flavor of my bars?

Try adding additional lemon zest or a touch of lemon extract for more intense flavor.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

Plain yogurt works well as a substitute and maintains the creamy consistency of the filling.

How do I prevent my crust from being too crumbly?

Ensure that you mix enough melted butter into your crust mixture so that it holds together well when pressed into the pan.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! You can double the ingredients and bake them in a larger pan. Just adjust the baking time accordingly.

Final Thoughts

These Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars offer a delightful combination of tangy lemon filling and buttery crust that’s simply irresistible. Their versatility allows you to customize them with different toppings or flavors, making them perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy these delicious treats with family and friends!

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