Lemon Crumb Bars

These Lemon Crumb Bars are a delightful combination of tangy lemon filling and a buttery, crumbly crust. Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or just a sweet treat at home, these bars stand out with their bright flavor and creamy texture. Whether you’re serving them at a party or indulging during a cozy afternoon, these lemon crumb bars are sure to be a hit!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Crust:
• For the Lemon Filling:
• How to Make Lemon Crumb Bars
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Make the Crust
• Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Filling
• Step 4: Assemble and Bake
• Step 5: Cool and Chill
• How to Serve Lemon Crumb Bars
• With Fresh Berries
• Topped with Whipped Cream
• Chilled with Ice Cream
• Garnished with Mint
• How to Perfect Lemon Crumb Bars
• Best Side Dishes for Lemon Crumb Bars
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Lemon Crumb Bars
• Reheating Lemon Crumb Bars
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use bottled lemon juice for Lemon Crumb Bars?
• How do I know when my Lemon Crumb Bars are done?
• Can I customize my Lemon Crumb Bars?
• What is the best way to serve Lemon Crumb Bars?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Deliciously Tangy: The fresh lemon juice adds a bright flavor that balances the sweetness of the filling.
• Versatile Treat: Great for any occasion, from summer barbecues to holiday gatherings, these bars are always welcome.
• Make Ahead Option: They can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge, making them an excellent choice for busy days.
• Perfectly Satisfying: The contrast between the crumbly crust and smooth filling creates a delightful texture in every bite.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making these lemon crumb bars, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×9-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Large mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×9-inch baking pan: This size is ideal for creating perfectly portioned lemon crumb bars.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes it easy to lift the bars out after cooling.
• Large mixing bowls: Provides enough space for mixing ingredients without spills.

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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How to Make Lemon Crumb Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 2: Make the Crust

1. In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, salt, and baking powder. Mix well.
2. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Press about two-thirds of this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until lightly golden.

Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Filling

1. In another large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, heavy cream, and salt. Mix until smooth.
2. Gradually add in the fresh lemon juice, whisking continuously until fully combined.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

1. Carefully pour the lemon filling over the hot crust in your baking pan.
2. Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture evenly over the top of the filling.
3. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until golden brown on top and filling is set.

Step 5: Cool and Chill

Allow your lemon crumb bars to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours before slicing into squares for serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Lemon Crumb Bars

Serving Lemon Crumb Bars can be a delightful experience, enhancing the tangy and sweet flavor of this dessert. Here are some creative ways to serve them:

With Fresh Berries

• Raspberries or Strawberries: A handful of fresh berries adds a vibrant color and a burst of freshness that complements the citrus flavor of the bars.
• Berry Compote: Drizzle a warm berry compote over each bar for an extra layer of sweetness and texture.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Classic Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream brings a light and airy contrast to the rich lemon filling.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Consider adding vanilla extract or lemon zest to your whipped cream for an enhanced flavor pairing.

Chilled with Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the tartness of the lemon crumb bars.
• Lemon Sorbet: For a refreshing twist, serve alongside lemon sorbet, emphasizing the lemony goodness.

Garnished with Mint

• Fresh Mint Leaves: A sprinkle of mint leaves adds a pop of color and a refreshing taste that balances the sweetness.
• Mint Syrup Drizzle: For an elegant touch, drizzle some mint syrup on top before serving.

How to Perfect Lemon Crumb Bars

Making perfect Lemon Crumb Bars is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your bars turn out perfectly every time:

• Use Fresh Lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice enhances the flavor significantly compared to bottled juice.
• Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure your egg yolks are at room temperature for better emulsification in the filling.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when preparing the crust; overmixing can lead to tough bars.
• Cool Completely Before Slicing: Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature for cleaner cuts and better texture.
• Chill Thoroughly: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before slicing; this helps set the filling properly.

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Best Side Dishes for Lemon Crumb Bars

Pairing side dishes with Lemon Crumb Bars can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with seasonal fruits offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the bars.
2. Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses like goat cheese or brie complements the tanginess of the lemon filling.
3. Herbed Yogurt Dip: A cooling yogurt dip infused with herbs provides a savory balance to your sweet dessert.
4. Crackers or Biscotti: Serve with lightly salted crackers or crunchy biscotti for texture contrast against the soft crumb bars.
5. Tea or Herbal Infusion: Pair your bars with a cup of herbal tea, like chamomile or mint, for a calming finish.
6. Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: The salty-sweet combination works wonderfully alongside tangy lemon flavors, offering variety in taste and texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Lemon Crumb Bars, it’s essential to steer clear of common pitfalls that can affect the texture and flavor.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Always use room temperature eggs and ingredients for a smooth filling. Cold ingredients can cause the mixture to curdle.
• Overmixing the Crust: Mix the crust ingredients just until crumbly. Overmixing can lead to tough bars instead of a light, flaky texture.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing. Cutting too soon can result in messy pieces and a runny filling.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Use proper measuring techniques for flour and sugar. Inaccurate measurements can alter the balance of flavors and textures.
• Ignoring Baking Times: Keep an eye on the baking time. Underbaking can make the filling too soft, while overbaking can dry out the bars.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Lemon Crumb Bars in an airtight container in the fridge.
• They will last for up to 5 days, maintaining their freshness.

Freezing Lemon Crumb Bars

• Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped bars in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Lemon Crumb Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes for a fresh taste.
• Microwave: Heat on low power in short bursts until warmed through; about 15-20 seconds should suffice.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bottled lemon juice for Lemon Crumb Bars?

Yes, you can use bottled lemon juice; however, fresh lemon juice provides better flavor and brightness.

How do I know when my Lemon Crumb Bars are done?

The top should be golden brown, and the filling should be set but slightly jiggle when you gently shake the pan.

Can I customize my Lemon Crumb Bars?

Absolutely! You can add berries or nuts to enhance flavor and texture while keeping the same base recipe.

What is the best way to serve Lemon Crumb Bars?

Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an added touch of sweetness and presentation.

Final Thoughts

Lemon Crumb Bars are not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various occasions. These sweet and tangy treats are perfect for summer picnics or as a refreshing dessert year-round. Feel free to customize them with your favorite fruits or toppings!