Why Make This Recipe
Lemon Crumb Bars are a delightful treat that offer a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. They are simple to make and are great for any occasion, whether it’s a sunny day picnic or a cozy afternoon snack. These bars are loved by many for their refreshing taste and satisfying crumbly texture. Plus, they only require a few basic ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
How to Make Lemon Crumb Bars
Making Lemon Crumb Bars is an easy process that anyone can enjoy. Just follow these steps, and you will have a delicious dessert ready in no time.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for topping)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 inch baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, butter, baking powder, and salt until the mixture is crumbly.
- Press half of this crumbly mixture into the bottom of the prepared dish to form the crust.
- In another bowl, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, and eggs until everything is well combined.
- Pour the lemon mixture over the crust you just made.
- Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture on top of the lemon layer.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Let the bars cool completely, then dust with powdered sugar before cutting them into squares.
How to Serve Lemon Crumb Bars
Lemon Crumb Bars are best served chilled or at room temperature. You can enjoy them as is or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. They make a wonderful addition to dessert tables or can be packed for lunchboxes as a sweet treat.
How to Store Lemon Crumb Bars
To store Lemon Crumb Bars, keep them in an airtight container. You can keep them at room temperature for a couple of days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.
Tips to Make Lemon Crumb Bars
- Use Fresh Lemons: The flavor of fresh lemon juice and zest makes a big difference, so always use fresh lemons if possible.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix until just combined to keep the bars light and flaky.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter dessert, feel free to add more sugar to the filling or topping.
Variation
For a different twist, you can add berries like blueberries or raspberries to the lemon filling. This adds a pop of color and new flavors to the bars.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use bottled lemon juice, but fresh lemon juice will give a better flavor.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour to make these bars gluten-free.
How long do leftovers last?
If stored properly, leftovers can last for about a week in the refrigerator.
Lemon Crumb Bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice Use fresh lemons for the best flavor.
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest Zest from the fresh lemons.
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup powdered sugar For dusting on top before serving.
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8 inch baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, butter, baking powder, and salt until the mixture is crumbly.
- Press half of this crumbly mixture into the bottom of the prepared dish to form the crust.
- In another bowl, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, and eggs until everything is well combined.
- Pour the lemon mixture over the crust you just made.
- Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture on top of the lemon layer.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Let the bars cool completely, then dust with powdered sugar before cutting them into squares.