Lemon Crumb Bars

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that combines the refreshing zing of citrus with a satisfying crumbly texture, these Lemon Crumb Bars are just what you need! They’re perfect for busy weeknights when you want to whip up something special or for family gatherings where everyone can enjoy a sweet treat. The balance of sweet and tangy in these bars makes them a favorite in my house, and I’m sure they’ll become a cherished recipe in yours too!

What I love most about these bars is how simple they are to make, yet they always impress. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you’ll have a batch of scrumptious Lemon Crumb Bars ready to share—or keep all to yourself if you prefer!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you’ll be on your way to enjoying these delicious bars in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the bright flavor and crumbly texture, making it a hit at any gathering.
• Make-ahead convenience: These bars can be made in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully as they chill in the fridge.
• Perfectly balanced flavor: The combination of zesty lemon and sweet crumb topping creates an irresistible treat that is hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Lemon Crumb Bars come together with simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather what we need!

For the Crust and Topping:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add some berries: Toss in some blueberries or raspberries for extra flavor and color!
• Switch up the citrus: Try using lime juice instead of lemon for a refreshing twist.
• Use whole wheat flour: Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste.
• Top with coconut: Sprinkle some shredded coconut over the top before baking for an even more tropical vibe.

How to Make Lemon Crumb Bars

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bars bake evenly from the start. A well-preheated oven helps achieve that perfect golden crust we all love!

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, baking powder, melted butter, and salt until crumbly. This mixture will form both the base and topping of your bars. Remember to reserve 1/2 cup for later! Press the remaining mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes until lightly golden.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Filling

While your crust is baking, whisk together eggs, sugar, flour, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth in another bowl. This step creates that luscious lemon filling that will sit atop your crust—so don’t skip it!

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Once your crust is ready, pour the lemon mixture evenly over it. Then sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture on top. Bake again for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the filling is set and slightly golden.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Let your bars cool completely at room temperature. After cooling, pop them in the refrigerator for at least an hour—this helps them firm up nicely. Once chilled, slice into squares and dust with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy every bite of these heavenly Lemon Crumb Bars!

Pro Tips for Making Lemon Crumb Bars

Making lemon crumb bars is a delightful experience, and these tips will help you achieve the best results!

• Use fresh lemons – Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest provide the brightest flavor, elevating your bars from good to amazing.
• Don’t skip chilling – Allowing the bars to chill in the refrigerator helps them set properly and enhances their flavor, making each bite refreshing and zesty.
• Watch your baking time – Keep an eye on the bars during the final bake. Overbaking can lead to a dry filling, while underbaking may leave it too gooey.
• Cut with a sharp knife – For clean, even slices, use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter when cutting the bars after they have cooled. This makes for prettier servings!
• Experiment with toppings – Feel free to add a sprinkle of coconut flakes or crushed nuts on top for added texture and flavor.

How to Serve Lemon Crumb Bars

Lemon crumb bars are not only delicious but also visually appealing. Here are some ideas to present this delightful treat beautifully.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting – A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness that complements the tartness of the lemon.
• Fresh mint leaves – Adding a few sprigs of fresh mint not only looks beautiful but also introduces a refreshing aroma that pairs wonderfully with lemon.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream – The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the tangy lemon bars, creating a delightful balance of flavors.
• Fresh berries – A side of mixed berries (like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries) adds natural sweetness and color to your plate, enhancing both presentation and taste.
• Herbal tea – A warm cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile or peppermint, can provide a soothing complement to the bright citrus notes of your dessert.
• Yogurt parfaits – Layer some yogurt with granola and fruit for a refreshing side dish that provides creaminess and crunch alongside your lemon bars.

Enjoy sharing these tasty lemon crumb bars at your next gathering! They’re sure to be a hit with everyone.

Make Ahead and Storage

These lemon crumb bars are perfect for meal prep, making them an excellent choice for busy weeks or special gatherings. They store well and can be enjoyed over several days!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Cut the bars into squares before freezing for easy portions.
• Wrap each square in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• If you prefer warm lemon crumb bars, you can reheat them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
• Alternatively, warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Have questions about these delicious lemon crumb bars? Here are some common queries!

Can I use bottled lemon juice for Lemon Crumb Bars?

While fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used as a substitute. Just ensure it’s 100% pure lemon juice without additives.

How long do Lemon Crumb Bars last?

Lemon crumb bars can last up to a week when stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge. For longer storage, consider freezing them!

Can I make Lemon Crumb Bars gluten-free?

Yes! You can replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. The texture might differ slightly but will still be delicious.

What can I serve with Lemon Crumb Bars?

These bars pair wonderfully with a dollop of whipped coconut cream or a scoop of dairy-free ice cream for an extra treat!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings a little sunshine into your kitchen! These lemon crumb bars are not just delightful treats; they are perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying on your own. Whether you’re preparing for a gathering or simply craving something sweet, I encourage you to try making these bars. Enjoy every zesty bite!