Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars

These Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars are a delightful treat, perfect for any occasion. With their creamy, tangy lemon filling nestled between a buttery crust and a crumbly oat topping, they offer a burst of flavor in every bite. Whether it’s a sunny picnic, a family gathering, or just a sweet snack at home, these bars are sure to impress with their easy preparation and irresistible taste.

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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
• Pair with Fresh Berries
• Top with Whipped Cream
• Serve Chilled
• Add a Dusting of Powdered Sugar
• Enjoy with Ice Cream
• 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 other fruits for crumb bars?
• How do I know when my filling is set?
• Can I make these bars ahead of time?
• What if I don’t have oats?
• Can I add more lemon zest?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll whip these bars up in no time.
• Flavorful Delight: The balance of tart lemon and sweet crumb topping creates a delightful contrast that is hard to resist.
• Versatile Treat: Serve them at parties, bake sales, or as an everyday dessert – they fit perfectly in any setting.
• Make Ahead: These bars can be prepared in advance and stored for later enjoyment, making them ideal for busy days.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap ingredients like oats for graham crackers or add your favorite toppings for a unique twist.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on these delicious Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars, gather the essential tools that will make your baking smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8×8-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Whisk
• Parchment paper or foil
• Nonstick spray
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Pan: A square pan ensures even baking and helps achieve the ideal bar shape.
• Mixing Bowls: Using two different sizes allows for efficient mixing of dry and wet ingredients separately before combining them.

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

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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.

Step 2: Prepare the Pan

Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with foil or parchment paper. Leave an overhang on two sides for easy removal later. Spray the lining 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 a large bowl, whisk the melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract for about one minute until fully combined. Stir the dry ingredients into this mixture until well mixed.

Step 4: Form the Crust

Remove about 3/4 cup of this mixture and set it aside for the crumb topping. Press the remaining dough evenly into the prepared pan. It will be very buttery—that’s okay! Bake this crust in the oven for 10 minutes.

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. Spread it evenly but gently since the crust is still soft. Crumble the reserved dough over this filling. Bake for an additional 17-20 minutes or until the top is lightly golden and the filling is set.

Step 7: Cool & Serve

After baking, place your pan on a wire rack to cool completely. Once fully cooled, use the parchment or foil overhang to lift your bars out of the pan. Slice into squares and enjoy!

How to Serve Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars

These Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging at home, here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

Pair with Fresh Berries

• Fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a burst of flavor and color. Simply serve the bars with a side of mixed berries for a refreshing contrast.

Top with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream brings a light and airy texture that complements the tangy lemon filling perfectly. You can also add a sprinkle of lemon zest on top for extra flair.

Serve Chilled

• For a refreshing twist, chill the bars in the refrigerator before serving. This enhances their creamy filling and makes for a cool dessert on warm days.

Add a Dusting of Powdered Sugar

• A light dusting of powdered sugar not only adds sweetness but also gives the bars an elegant look. It’s an easy way to make them feel special for any occasion.

Enjoy with Ice Cream

• Pair these lemon bars with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. The creamy ice cream balances the tartness of the lemon filling beautifully.

How to Perfect Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars

Achieving the perfect Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars is simple with a few handy tips. Follow these guidelines to ensure your bars come out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest will provide the best flavor. Avoid bottled lemon juice, as it may not have the same vibrant taste.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough crusts and fillings.
• Check Baking Time: Keep an eye on your bars while baking. They should be lightly golden on top when done, but be careful not to overbake as this can dry them out.
• Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool entirely before cutting them into squares. This helps them set properly and makes slicing easier.
• Store Properly: To maintain freshness, store your bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to 5 days but taste best within the first few days.

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Best Side Dishes for Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars

Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars make for a delightful dessert, but pairing them with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some tasty options to consider.

1. Classic Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce dressed in Caesar dressing provides a savory contrast to the sweet bars.
2. Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits offers freshness and balance alongside the rich lemon flavors.
3. Pasta Primavera: Lightly sautéed vegetables tossed with pasta create a vibrant dish that pairs nicely without overshadowing dessert.
4. Grilled Chicken Skewers: These savory skewers seasoned with herbs add protein and pair well with the sweet-tart flavor.
5. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer refreshing bites before indulging in dessert.
6. Spinach Quiche: A slice of this savory quiche complements the sweetness of lemon crumb bars perfectly, making it ideal for brunch or lunch gatherings.
7. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with fresh herbs provides a light side that won’t compete with dessert flavors.
8. Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears seasoned simply make for an elegant side dish that balances out richer meals beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars can be simple, but a few common errors can ruin your experience. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the chilling step: If you cut the bars before they cool completely, they might fall apart. Always let them cool fully for cleaner slices.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Incorrect measurements can lead to an unbalanced flavor or texture. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups for best results.
• Overbaking the crust: A golden brown crust is ideal, but overbaking can make it hard. Keep a close eye on it while baking to ensure it’s just right.
• Using bottled lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice enhances flavor significantly. Opt for fresh lemons for that zesty brightness in your filling.
• Skipping the zest: Lemon zest adds depth to the flavor profile of your bars. Don’t skip this ingredient; it makes a big difference!

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep chilled to maintain firmness and flavor.

Freezing Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars

• Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place bars in the oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat for about 15-20 seconds on medium power, checking often to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat. Place bars in the pan and cover with a lid until warmed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other fruits for crumb bars?

Absolutely! You can substitute lemon with lime or even berries for different flavors and textures.

How do I know when my filling is set?

The lemon filling should appear slightly jiggly but not liquid when you take them out of the oven. It will firm up as it cools.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes! These Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge overnight for better flavor development.

What if I don’t have oats?

You can replace oats with crushed graham crackers or almond flour for a different texture and taste.

Can I add more lemon zest?

Definitely! Adding extra lemon zest will enhance the citrus flavor and aroma of your bars, making them even more delicious.

Final Thoughts

These Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars are not just tasty; they bring together creamy lemon goodness with a delightful crunchy topping. They are perfect as a dessert at gatherings or simply enjoyed at home. Feel free to customize them by using different fruits or adjusting sweetness levels according to your preference!