These Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars are a delightful treat that combines a rich, tangy lemon filling with a buttery crust and crumbly topping. Perfect for gatherings, picnics, or just an afternoon snack, these bars are easy to make and wonderfully satisfying. Their bright flavor and appealing texture make them a standout dessert that everyone will love.
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- How to Make Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Prepare the Pan
- Step 3: Make the Crust & Topping
- Step 4: Form the Crust
- Step 5: Prepare the Lemon Filling
- Step 6: Assemble & Bake
- Step 7: Cool & Serve
- How to Serve Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars
- With Fresh Berries
- Topped with Whipped Cream
- Drizzled with Lemon Glaze
- Paired with Ice Cream
- Garnished with Mint Leaves
- Served Chilled
- How to Perfect Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars
- Best Side Dishes for Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars
- Reheating Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use store-bought lemon curd instead of making the filling?
- How do I know when my Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars are done?
- What can I substitute for oats in this recipe?
- Can I make these bars gluten-free?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up these bars in no time.
- Delicious Flavor: The balance of tangy lemon and sweet crumb creates a unique dessert experience.
- Versatile Serving: Great for any occasion, from summer BBQs to holiday parties, they fit right in.
- Make Ahead Friendly: Prepare these bars a day in advance for the best texture and flavor.
- Customizable: Swap out oats for crushed graham crackers for a different twist on the classic recipe.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making these delicious bars, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 8×8-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls (medium and large)
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking Pan: The right size ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect bar shape.
- Mixing Bowls: Using separate bowls helps keep dry and wet ingredients organized, making mixing easier.
- Whisk: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly without lumps.
Ingredients
For the Crust and Topping:
* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* 1 cup old-fashioned oats
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
* 10 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
* 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
* 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For the Lemon Filling:
* 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
* 2 tablespoons sour cream (or plain yogurt)
* 1 large egg yolk
* 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
* 1 tablespoon finely grated lemon zest
* 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bars bake evenly from the start.
Step 2: Prepare the Pan
Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with foil or parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides. This will help you lift the bars out easily later. Spray with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Make the Crust & Topping
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, salt, and baking soda. In another large bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk for at least one minute until fully combined. Stir in the dry mixture until well mixed.
Step 4: Form the Crust
Set aside about 3/4 cup of the mixture for topping. Press the remaining dough evenly into the prepared pan. Bake it in the preheated oven for 10 minutes until just set.
Step 5: Prepare the Lemon Filling
While your crust bakes, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, sour cream (or yogurt), egg yolk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth.
Step 6: Assemble & Bake
Pour the lemon filling over your warm crust carefully. Gently spread it evenly across. Crumble the reserved dough over this filling layer. Bake again for about 17-20 minutes until the top is lightly golden and filling is set.
Step 7: Cool & Serve
Remove from oven and place on a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, lift out using parchment or foil overhang to cut into squares. Enjoy your delicious Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars!
How to Serve Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars
Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.
With Fresh Berries
- Serve these bars with a side of fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of flavor and color.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- A dollop of whipped cream adds a light, airy texture that complements the tangy lemon filling perfectly.
Drizzled with Lemon Glaze
- Enhance the lemon flavor by drizzling a simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice over each bar.
Paired with Ice Cream
- Vanilla or lemon sorbet makes a delicious pairing, creating a refreshing contrast to the crumbly texture.
Garnished with Mint Leaves
- A few fresh mint leaves on top add an aromatic touch, making your presentation more appealing and fragrant.
Served Chilled
- For an extra refreshing treat, chill the bars before serving. They become even more delightful on warm days!
How to Perfect Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars
Achieving the perfect Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your bars come out just right.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemons yield better flavor than bottled juice. Grate your zest from organic lemons for the best taste.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can make the crust tough.
- Cool Before Slicing: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing. This helps them set properly and prevents crumbling.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk slightly for a zesty kick.
- Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to try different toppings like toasted coconut or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars
When serving Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars, consider pairing them with side dishes that complement their bright flavors. Here are some excellent options:
- Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the bars.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses balances out the sweetness, adding savory notes to your dessert experience.
- Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette dressing can cleanse the palate between bites of rich lemon bars.
- Pistachio Ice Cream: The nutty flavor of pistachios pairs wonderfully with lemon, enhancing the overall tasting experience.
- Tea or Coffee: A warm cup of tea or coffee complements dessert beautifully while enhancing its flavors.
- Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: These add an indulgent touch and create a delightful contrast with the tartness of the lemon bars.
- Meringue Cookies: Light and airy meringues provide an excellent textural counterpart to the dense crumb bars.
- Mini Cheesecakes: For those who love creamy desserts, mini cheesecakes can be an elegant addition to your spread.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars turn out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.
- Skipping the Cooling Step: Letting the bars cool completely is vital for better texture. If you slice them too early, they may fall apart.
- Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science. Use precise measurements for flour and sugar to achieve the right consistency.
- Overmixing the Filling: Whisking the lemon filling too much can introduce air and make it less creamy. Mix just until combined for a smooth filling.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Room temperature ingredients blend more easily, leading to a better texture. Allow eggs and dairy to sit out before using.
- Ignoring Baking Times: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your bars during baking to prevent overcooking or undercooking.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers for easy removal.
Freezing Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars
- Freeze bars in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- Layer parchment paper between bars to prevent sticking.
Reheating Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes until slightly soft.
- Microwave: Heat individual servings on medium power for 15-20 seconds; do not overheat.
- Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, covered, until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought lemon curd instead of making the filling?
Yes, using store-bought lemon curd can save time. Just spread it over the crust before adding the crumb topping.
How do I know when my Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars are done?
The top should be lightly golden, and the filling should be set but still slightly jiggly when removed from the oven.
What can I substitute for oats in this recipe?
You can replace oats with crushed graham crackers or almond flour for a different texture and flavor.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
These Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars are not only delicious but also versatile! Feel free to customize them with different citrus flavors or add nuts for extra crunch. They make a perfect treat for any occasion — give them a try!
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Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 9 bars 1x
Description
Indulge in the tangy sweetness of Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars, a perfect dessert that brings together a zesty lemon filling and a buttery oat crumble topping. These bars are not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying, making them an ideal treat for any occasion—be it summer BBQs, picnics, or cozy family gatherings. With each bite, your taste buds will dance to the delightful contrast of sweet and tart flavors. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests. Whether served chilled with fresh berries or drizzled with lemon glaze, these bars are sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 10 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tablespoons sour cream (or plain yogurt)
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon finely grated lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, mix flour, oats, salt, and baking soda. In another bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Combine dry ingredients into the butter mixture until mixed well. Set aside about 3/4 cup for topping.
- Press remaining mixture into the bottom of the pan and bake for 10 minutes.
- Whisk together sweetened condensed milk, sour cream (or yogurt), egg yolk, lemon juice, zest, and vanilla in a separate bowl until smooth.
- Pour lemon filling over the warm crust and sprinkle reserved crumb mixture on top.
- Bake for an additional 17-20 minutes until golden and set.
- Allow bars to cool completely before lifting out and slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (60g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
