Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these *lemon crumb bars*! They’re like a little bite of sunshine on a plate! The moment you take a bite, the tangy lemon flavor dances on your taste buds, and that buttery crumb topping? Pure bliss! I remember the first time I made these delightful dessert bars for a family gathering. Everyone raved about them, and I just knew I had to share the recipe. They’re so refreshing and perfect for warm days, or really any day you crave something sweet yet zesty. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up! You don’t need to be a baking pro to impress your friends and family with these delicious treats. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to make them again and again. So, let’s dive into making these lemon crumb bars that are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
Ingredients for Lemon Crumb Bars Delightful Dessert Recipe
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
How to Prepare Lemon Crumb Bars
Alright, let’s get our baking game on! Making these lemon crumb bars is super simple and totally rewarding. You’ll want to start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is key because you want that perfect temperature for baking!
Prepping the Crust
Now, grab a mixing bowl and combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, the melted unsalted butter, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. I like to use a fork or a pastry cutter to mix it all together until it resembles coarse crumbs. It’s okay if it’s a little crumbly—that’s what makes it delicious! Once mixed, press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 8×8 inch baking dish. Take your time to make it even. Pop it into the oven and bake for about 15 minutes until it’s just starting to turn golden. The aroma will be amazing!
Making the Lemon Filling
While the crust is baking, let’s whip up that luscious lemon filling! In another bowl, whisk together the 2 large eggs, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon of lemon zest. I love using a whisk for this part—it really helps incorporate everything smoothly. Then, add in the remaining 1/4 cup of flour and whisk until everything is combined and there are no lumps. This filling is going to be tangy and bright, just like a sunny day!
Final Baking Steps
Once the crust is out of the oven, pour that gorgeous lemon mixture right on top of it. Spread it out evenly and then bake it again for about 20 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want it to be set in the center and just slightly jiggly. When it’s done, let it cool in the dish for a bit before transferring it to the fridge to chill. This helps the bars firm up nicely. After a couple of hours (or when you can resist no longer!), cut them into squares. The moment you take that first bite, you’ll see why these delightful lemon crumb bars are a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously tangy lemon flavor that brightens your day!
- Easy to prepare with just a few simple ingredients.
- Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or just a sweet treat at home.
- Buttery crumb topping adds a delightful texture contrast.
- Great for any season—refreshing in summer and comforting in winter.
- They’re a hit with family and friends, guaranteed to impress!
Tips for Success with Lemon Crumb Bars
Alright, let’s make sure your lemon crumb bars turn out absolutely perfect! First, always use fresh lemons for the juice and zest; it really makes a difference in flavor. I can’t stress this enough! Also, be careful not to overmix the lemon filling—just whisk until combined to keep it light and airy. When pressing down the crust, make sure it’s packed tightly for that ideal texture. And if you want a little extra sweetness, a light dusting of powdered sugar on top before serving elevates the presentation beautifully. Trust me, these tips will have everyone asking for your secret recipe!
Variations for Lemon Crumb Bars Delightful Dessert Recipe
If you’re feeling adventurous, let’s mix things up a bit with these fun variations! Try adding some lime juice and zest for a refreshing twist, or even mix in a little orange zest for a citrus medley that’s out of this world. Feeling spicy? A touch of ginger or cardamom can add a warm flavor profile that complements the tanginess beautifully. For a berry boost, fold in some blueberries or raspberries into the lemon filling before baking for a pop of color and flavor. The possibilities are endless, so let your taste buds guide you!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
Just a quick note: the nutritional information for these lemon crumb bars can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. While I’ve provided some approximate values, keep in mind that they’re not exact. Always check your ingredients for the most accurate information!
FAQ About Lemon Crumb Bars
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
While it’s tempting to grab that bottled lemon juice for convenience, I highly recommend using fresh lemons! They provide a vibrant flavor that really makes these lemon crumb bars shine.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
Look for a firm surface that’s slightly jiggly in the center when you gently shake the pan. They will continue to set as they cool. Trust your instincts!
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These lemon crumb bars can be made a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge, and they’ll be even more delightful when served chilled.
What if I don’t have an 8×8 inch baking dish?
No worries! You can use a 9×9 inch dish instead; just keep an eye on the baking time as it may vary slightly!
Can I freeze leftover lemon crumb bars?
Yes! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the freezer for up to a month. Just thaw them in the fridge before serving for a refreshing treat!
Lemon Crumb Bars Delightful Dessert Recipe for Sweet Nostalgia
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Lemon crumb bars are a delightful dessert with a tangy lemon flavor and a buttery crumb topping.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix 1 cup flour, 1/2 cup sugar, melted butter, baking powder, and salt.
- Press the mixture into a greased 8×8 inch baking dish.
- Bake for 15 minutes.
- In another bowl, whisk together eggs, 1 cup sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and 1/4 cup flour.
- Pour the lemon mixture over the baked crust.
- Bake for an additional 20 minutes.
- Let cool before cutting into bars.
Notes
- Use fresh lemons for the best flavor.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving for added sweetness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: lemon crumb bars, dessert recipe, lemon desserts