Lemon Crumb Bars

These Lemon Crumb Bars are a delightful treat that combines a tangy lemon filling with a buttery, crumbly crust. Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or simply when you’re craving something sweet and citrusy, these bars are sure to impress. The unique balance of flavors makes them a standout dessert that everyone will love!

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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
• 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
• Pair with Fresh Berries
• Add a Scoop of Ice Cream
• Drizzle with Sauce
• How to Perfect Lemon Crumb Bars
• Best Side Dishes for Lemon Crumb Bars
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Lemon Crumb Bars
• Reheating Lemon Crumb Bars
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What are Lemon Crumb Bars?
• How do I know when my Lemon Crumb Bars are done?
• Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
• How do I customize my Lemon Crumb Bars?
• What should I serve with Lemon Crumb Bars?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Make: With straightforward ingredients and easy steps, anyone can whip up these bars in no time.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of fresh lemon juice and creamy filling creates a refreshing taste that brightens any occasion.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual get-together, these bars are ideal for sharing.
• Make Ahead Option: They can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making them convenient for busy days.
• Versatile Dessert: Enjoy them as is or dress them up with powdered sugar or fresh berries for added flair.

Tools and Preparation

To create your delicious Lemon Crumb Bars, you’ll need some essential tools. These items will help you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×9-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×9-inch baking pan: This size is perfect for even cooking and allows the bars to set properly.
• Parchment paper: It ensures easy removal of the bars from the pan without sticking.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls helps separate the crust from the filling for a smoother process.

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)

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How to Make Lemon Crumb Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 2: Make the Crust

In a large bowl:
1. Mix together the flour, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, salt, and baking powder until well combined.
2. Pour in the melted butter and mix until you achieve a crumbly texture.
3. Press two-thirds of this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan.
4. Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden.

Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Filling

In another large bowl:
1. Whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, heavy cream, and salt until smooth.
2. Gradually whisk in the fresh lemon juice until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the lemon filling over the hot crust you just baked.
2. Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture evenly over the top.
3. Bake again for 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and the filling is set.

Step 5: Cool and Chill

Let your bars cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating them. Chill for at least 4 hours before slicing into squares to serve.

Enjoy your homemade Lemon Crumb Bars!

How to Serve Lemon Crumb Bars

Lemon crumb bars are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways to enhance their flavor and presentation. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enjoy these tangy desserts.

Pair with Fresh Berries

• Raspberries – Their tartness complements the sweetness of the lemon filling perfectly.
• Blueberries – Add a pop of color and a juicy burst that balances the rich crumbly texture.
• Strawberries – Sliced fresh strawberries bring a sweet contrast and look inviting on the plate.

Add a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream – The classic choice that provides creamy goodness alongside the zesty bars.
• Lemon Sorbet – For an extra citrus kick, lemon sorbet enhances the lemon flavor beautifully.
• Coconut Ice Cream – This adds a tropical twist, giving a fun contrast to the tartness of the bars.

Drizzle with Sauce

• Berry Sauce – A homemade or store-bought berry sauce adds sweetness and color when drizzled over.
• Chocolate Sauce – For those who love the combo of chocolate and citrus, a light drizzle is indulgent.

How to Perfect Lemon Crumb Bars

Achieving the ideal lemon crumb bars requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your bars turn out perfectly every time.

• Use Fresh Lemons – Freshly squeezed lemon juice gives the best flavor compared to bottled juice.
• Chill Thoroughly – Allowing the bars to chill for at least 4 hours helps set the filling for clean slices.
• Avoid Overmixing – Mix just until combined; overmixing can make the crust tough instead of crumbly.
• Check Baking Time – Keep an eye on them in the oven; they should be golden brown but not overbaked.
• Let Cool Completely – Cooling at room temperature prevents sogginess before placing in the fridge.

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Best Side Dishes for Lemon Crumb Bars

While lemon crumb bars shine on their own, pairing them with side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Whipped Cream – A dollop of whipped cream adds richness and lightens up each bite.
2. Fruit Salad – A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse your palate between bites of rich dessert.
3. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a crunchy, creamy side that complements well.
4. Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses can provide a savory contrast to the sweet lemon flavors.
5. Tea or Iced Tea – A light herbal tea or refreshing iced tea pairs well, balancing sweetness with warmth or coolness.
6. Sparkling Water with Lime – The effervescence and citrus notes create a refreshing drink alongside your dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Lemon Crumb Bars, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Incorrect Measurements: Always use precise measurements for both the crust and filling. A small error can drastically change the texture.
• Not Cooling Properly: Allowing the bars to cool completely before cutting is essential. This helps them set properly, preventing a messy cut.
• Skipping the Refrigeration: Don’t skip the chilling step! Refrigerating for at least 4 hours helps the flavors meld and makes slicing easier.
• Overbaking or Underbaking: Keep an eye on the baking time. Overbaking can lead to dry bars, while underbaking results in a runny filling.
• Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh lemons for juice instead of bottled. Fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor and brightness.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing Lemon Crumb Bars

• Use an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.
• Store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Lemon Crumb Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on low power in 15-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are Lemon Crumb Bars?

Lemon Crumb Bars are a sweet dessert featuring a buttery crumb crust topped with a creamy lemon filling. They are perfect for citrus lovers!

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

The bars are done when the top is golden brown and the lemon filling has set, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes of baking.

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

While you can use bottled lemon juice, fresh lemon juice offers a brighter flavor that enhances your Lemon Crumb Bars.

How do I customize my Lemon Crumb Bars?

You can add ingredients like blueberries or raspberries for extra flavor, or mix in zest from lemons for a more intense citrus taste.

What should I serve with Lemon Crumb Bars?

Lemon Crumb Bars pair beautifully with whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar for added sweetness.

Final Thoughts

These Lemon Crumb Bars are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can easily customize them with your favorite fruits or toppings. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a refreshing treat that everyone will love!

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