Lemon Crumb Bars

These tangy and sweet Lemon Crumb Bars have a buttery, crumbly crust and a smooth, creamy lemon filling. They are perfect for summer gatherings, afternoon snacks, or any time you want a citrusy treat. The balance of sweet and tart flavors makes them irresistible, and they are easy to prepare with simple ingredients.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with fresh lemon flavor – Made with real lemon juice for a bright, citrusy taste.
• Perfect texture – A buttery crumb crust complements the silky lemon filling.
• Easy to make – Simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions ensure success.
• Great for any occasion – Ideal for potlucks, picnics, or as a make-ahead dessert.

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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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Preparation Phase & Tools

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Parchment paper prevents sticking and makes it easier to lift out the bars.
• Mixing bowls allow for easy ingredient combination.
• Whisk ensures the lemon filling is smooth and well blended.
• Spatula helps spread the filling evenly.
• Knife is essential for cutting clean slices after chilling.

Preparation Tips

• Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. Bottled juice lacks the brightness of fresh lemons.
• Let the melted butter cool slightly before mixing to prevent a greasy crust.
• Use room temperature egg yolks to help them blend smoothly into the filling.
• Line the pan with parchment paper and leave an overhang for easy removal.

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat the Oven

• Set the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides.

2. Make the Crust

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, salt, and baking powder.
• Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture becomes crumbly.
• Press two-thirds of the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
• Bake for 15 minutes, until lightly golden.

3. Prepare the Lemon Filling

• In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, heavy cream, and salt.
• Gradually whisk in the lemon juice, mixing until the filling is smooth and fully combined.

4. Assemble and Bake

• Pour the lemon filling over the hot crust.
• Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture evenly over the top.
• Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the filling is set.

5. Cool and Chill

• Let the bars cool completely at room temperature.
• Transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours before slicing and serving.

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Tips and Variations

• For a stronger lemon flavor, add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the filling.
• For a crisper topping, bake for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
• For a dairy-free option, use coconut sweetened condensed milk and coconut cream instead of heavy cream.

Serving Suggestions

• Dust with powdered sugar – A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and an elegant finish.
• Serve with whipped cream – A dollop of freshly whipped cream balances the tartness of the lemon filling.
• Pair with fresh berries – Raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries complement the citrusy flavors.
• Drizzle with white chocolate – Melted white chocolate adds a creamy contrast to the tangy lemon filling.
• Top with lemon zest – A sprinkle of fresh lemon zest enhances the citrus flavor and adds visual appeal.
• Serve with vanilla ice cream – A scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a creamy contrast to the crumbly crust.
• Enjoy with tea or coffee – These bars pair well with a hot cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon treat.
• Layer into a parfait – Crumble the bars into layers with whipped cream and berries for an elegant dessert.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this recipe is simple, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the texture and flavor of the lemon crumb bars. Here are some tips to ensure perfect results every time.

Skipping the Chilling Time

Chilling is essential for setting the filling and firming up the bars. Cutting them too soon will result in a messy texture. Refrigerate for at least four hours before slicing.

Using Bottled Lemon Juice

Fresh lemon juice provides a bright and natural citrus flavor. Bottled juice often has preservatives and a slightly bitter aftertaste that can alter the flavor of the bars.

Overbaking the Bars

The bars should be baked until the filling is set but still slightly soft in the center. Overbaking can cause the filling to become too firm and dry.

Not Pressing the Crust Firmly

A loosely packed crust may crumble when slicing. Press the crust firmly into the pan to create a solid base that holds together after baking.

Cutting While Still Warm

Allowing the bars to cool completely before slicing ensures clean edges. Warm bars tend to fall apart when cut.

Not Lining the Pan with Parchment Paper

Using parchment paper with an overhang makes it easy to lift the bars out of the pan for clean and even slicing. Without it, the bars may stick to the pan and break apart.

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Side Dish Recommendations

Lemon crumb bars are delicious on their own, but they can also be paired with complementary side dishes to create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some ideas for serving them alongside other treats.

1. Fresh Berry Salad

A mix of fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a refreshing and juicy contrast to the buttery crumb bars.

2. Lemon Sorbet

For an extra burst of citrus, serve the bars with a scoop of lemon sorbet. The cool and tangy sorbet enhances the bright lemon flavor of the bars.

3. Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream balances the tartness of the lemon filling, making it a classic pairing.

4. Honey Yogurt Parfait

Layer Greek yogurt with honey and granola for a creamy, slightly tangy side dish that complements the sweetness of the bars.

5. Almond Biscotti

Crunchy almond biscotti provide a nutty contrast to the soft and creamy lemon bars. This pairing is perfect for serving with coffee or tea.

6. Coconut Whipped Cream

A light and fluffy coconut whipped cream adds a subtle tropical flavor that pairs well with lemon desserts.

7. Mint Tea

A cup of freshly brewed mint tea enhances the refreshing citrus notes of the bars and provides a soothing balance to the sweetness.

8. Raspberry Coulis

A drizzle of raspberry coulis adds a tart and vibrant contrast that enhances the overall flavor of the lemon crumb bars.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storing in the Refrigerator

• Once the bars have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• For best results, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing for Long-Term Storage

• Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
• Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• To serve, thaw the bars in the refrigerator overnight before eating.

Reheating Instructions

Lemon crumb bars are best served chilled or at room temperature, but if you prefer them slightly warm:

• Microwave for 10-15 seconds for a softer texture.
• Avoid overheating, as this can make the filling too soft and cause the crust to crumble.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different citrus fruit instead of lemons?

Yes. You can substitute fresh lime juice or orange juice for a variation on the flavor. Lime gives a tart and tangy twist, while orange makes the bars sweeter and milder.

2. How do I get clean, even slices?

For neat slices, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts. Chilling the bars thoroughly before cutting helps them hold their shape.

3. Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour for a gluten-free version. The texture may vary slightly, but the flavor will remain delicious.

4. Why is my crust falling apart?

If the crust is too crumbly, it may not have been pressed firmly enough into the pan. Make sure to pack it down well before baking. Also, measuring the flour correctly is important to avoid a dry mixture.

5. Do I need to refrigerate these bars?

Yes. Because of the egg yolks and condensed milk in the filling, refrigeration is necessary to keep them fresh and safe to eat.

6. Can I double the recipe?

Yes. To make a larger batch, double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. The baking time may need to be adjusted slightly, so check for doneness around 25 minutes.

7. Can I make the bars ahead of time?

Absolutely. These bars taste even better after chilling for several hours, making them a great make-ahead dessert for parties and gatherings.

8. What can I do with leftover egg whites?

Save the egg whites to use in recipes like meringue, macarons, or scrambled eggs. They can also be frozen for future use.

Final Thoughts

Lemon crumb bars are a perfect combination of buttery, crumbly crust and smooth, tangy lemon filling. Whether served as an afternoon snack, a dessert for a special occasion, or a refreshing treat on a warm day, they always impress.

With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly while delivering a bakery-quality dessert. By following the storage and serving tips, you can enjoy these bars at their best for days after baking.

Try making a batch today, and enjoy the bright, citrusy flavor of homemade lemon crumb bars.