Introduction
There’s something undeniably delightful about Lemon Crumb Bars — they capture the essence of sunshine in every bite! With a buttery, crumbly crust that cradles a vibrant lemon filling, these bars are the perfect balance of sweet and tart. Whether you’re hosting a summer picnic, celebrating a special occasion, or simply treating yourself, these bars will bring a refreshing brightness to your dessert table. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and create a sweet piece of citrus heaven!
Ingredients
To make these delicious Lemon Crumb Bars, gather the following ingredients:
- For the crust and crumb topping:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the lemon filling:
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, powdered sugar, and salt, mixing until well incorporated.
- Add in the softened butter and vanilla extract, then blend the mixture using a fork or your fingers until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press half of this crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a sturdy crust.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, 1/4 cup of flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is silky and smooth.
- Pour the luscious lemon filling over the crust in the baking dish, spreading it evenly for a perfect layer.
- Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture generously over the top of the lemon filling, ensuring each bite has a taste of that buttery crumble.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden brown and the filling is set.
- Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely in the dish before cutting them into squares for serving.
- If desired, dust the cooled bars with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness and a beautiful presentation.
Notes or Tips
For an extra burst of citrus, consider adding a bit more lemon zest or even a few drops of lemon extract to the filling. These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, making them perfect for meal prep or everyday treats. Enjoy them chilled for a refreshing snack!
Cooking Techniques
Making these Lemon Crumb Bars is a breeze! The key technique lies in creating the crumbly texture for the crust and topping. Make sure to blend the butter with the dry ingredients until just combined to achieve that lovely sensitivity. Whisking the filling until perfectly smooth ensures a creamy, luscious final product. Baking them until just set is essential to avoid overcooking and losing that delightful lemony flavor.
FAQ
- Can I use bottled lemon juice? While fresh lemon juice brings a brighter flavor, bottled juice can be used in a pinch. Just make sure it’s 100% juice without additives for the best taste.
- Can these bars be frozen? Absolutely! Simply wrap the cooled bars in plastic wrap and then in foil. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- What can I serve with these bars? These bars pair wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a cup of hot tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
Conclusion
Now that you have the recipe for these irresistible Lemon Crumb Bars, it’s time to share the joy of baking with friends and family! These bars not only brighten up your dessert table but also create moments of happiness during every bite. Enjoy their delightful flavors and the beautiful memories they create — happy baking!