Lemon Crumb Bars

Why Make This Recipe

Lemon Crumb Bars are a delightful treat that combines a buttery crust with a tangy lemon filling. They are easy to make and perfect for any occasion, whether you want a sweet snack or a light dessert. The bright lemon flavor can brighten your day, making them a favorite among family and friends. Plus, they are simple enough for beginners to try their hand at baking!

How to Make Lemon Crumb Bars

Creating these delicious Lemon Crumb Bars is straightforward. Here’s how to do it step by step.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• Pinch of salt

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.
2. In a bowl, mix together the flour and powdered sugar. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles crumbs. Press this mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a crust.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
4. Pour this lemon mixture over the crust in the baking pan.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the center is set and lightly golden.
6. Allow to cool before cutting into bars. Dust with additional powdered sugar if desired.

How to Serve Lemon Crumb Bars

Lemon Crumb Bars are best served chilled or at room temperature. You can cut them into squares or rectangles for easy sharing. A light dusting of powdered sugar on top adds an elegant touch. These bars are great for picnics, parties, or as a treat with a cup of tea or coffee.

How to Store Lemon Crumb Bars

You can store Lemon Crumb Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. This keeps them fresh and helps maintain their tangy flavor. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to three months in the freezer.

Tips to Make Lemon Crumb Bars

1. Make sure your butter is softened but not melted for the best crust texture.
2. Fresh lemon juice and zest give the best flavor, so try to avoid bottled juice.
3. Don’t skip the cooling step; letting the bars cool will help them set properly.

Variation

For a different twist, you can add blueberries or raspberries to the lemon filling for a fruity surprise. You can also use lime juice instead of lemon for a zesty change.

FAQs

1. Can I use bottled lemon juice?
While fresh lemon juice is preferred for flavor, you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch.

2. What can I do if my bars are too sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar in the filling to balance the sweetness. Adding more lemon juice can also help with this.

3. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes! Lemon Crumb Bars can be made a day or two ahead. Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.