Why Make This Recipe
Lemon Crumb Bars are a delicious treat that combines a buttery crumb crust with a tangy lemon filling. These bars are perfect for any occasion, whether you are hosting a gathering, enjoying a sunny afternoon, or simply indulging in a sweet snack. They are easy to make and will brighten your day with their fresh lemon flavor.
How to Make Lemon Crumb Bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9 inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, mix together flour and powdered sugar, then add the softened butter and blend until crumbly. Press this mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a crust.
- Bake the crust for 15 minutes until lightly golden.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, baking powder, and salt until smooth.
- Pour the lemon mixture over the baked crust and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until set.
- Let it cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.
How to Serve Lemon Crumb Bars
Lemon Crumb Bars can be served on their own or dusted with a little extra powdered sugar for a pretty look. They are great as a dessert after dinner or as a sweet snack during the day. Pair them with a cup of tea or lemonade for a refreshing treat!
How to Store Lemon Crumb Bars
Store your Lemon Crumb Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just make sure to let them come to room temperature before serving.
Tips to Make Lemon Crumb Bars
- For a stronger lemon flavor, add a bit more lemon zest to the filling.
- Be careful not to overbake the lemon filling; it should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center when you take it out of the oven.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best taste.
Variation
You can add a layer of fruit like raspberries or blueberries on top of the lemon filling before baking for a fruity twist on the classic recipe.
FAQs
1. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use bottled lemon juice, but fresh lemon juice provides a brighter flavor.
2. Can I freeze Lemon Crumb Bars?
Yes, you can freeze them. Wrap the bars in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing them in the freezer. They will keep well for up to 3 months.
3. How do I know when the bars are done baking?
They are done when the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. The filling will firm up as it cools.
Lemon Crumb Bars
Ingredients
For the crust
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the lemon filling
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9 inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, mix together flour and powdered sugar, then add the softened butter and blend until crumbly.
- Press this mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a crust.
Baking the crust
- Bake the crust for 15 minutes until lightly golden.
Preparing the filling
- In a separate bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, baking powder, and salt until smooth.
Baking the bars
- Pour the lemon mixture over the baked crust and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until set.
- Let it cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.