Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars: A Refreshing Delight
Treat your family and friends to delightful Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars. This easy recipe captures the tartness of fresh lemons perfectly, making it a wonderful dessert for any occasion. With layers of buttery crust and creamy lemon filling, it’s a perfect choice for gatherings or a cozy night in.
Why Make This Recipe
These lemon crumb bars offer a zesty flavor that refreshes the palate. They combine the sweet and sour in a delightful way, providing a perfect balance that brightens any dessert table. They are easy to bake and can cater to various events, from picnics to holiday gatherings. Plus, kids and adults alike will both enjoy their refreshing taste.
How to Make Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars
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
Step by step
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and spray with nonstick spray.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, salt, and baking soda.
- In another bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until mixed well.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients until you form a cohesive mixture. Reserve 3/4 cup of this mixture for the topping.
- Press the rest of the mixture into the prepared pan evenly and bake for 10 minutes.
- While the crust bakes, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, egg yolk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and additional vanilla until smooth.
- Pour the lemon filling over the baked crust, then sprinkle the reserved crumbs on top.
- Bake for another 17 to 20 minutes until the top turns golden brown.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing into squares.
How to Serve Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars
Serve these lemon bars chilled or at room temperature. They make a delightful addition to any dessert platter. For a touch of elegance, dust them with powdered sugar before serving or pair them with whipped cream. Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee for a perfect afternoon snack.
How to Store Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars
To keep your lemon crumb bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. They can last in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Cut the bars into squares, wrap them in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe container. They keep well for up to three months.
Tips to Make Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars
- Make sure to use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Adjust the sugar to your taste preference. If you prefer a tart flavor, you can reduce the sugar slightly.
- Use a quality brand of sweetened condensed milk for a richer filling.
Variations
For a twist, try adding fresh blueberries or raspberries to the filling for a burst of flavor or opt for a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs.
FAQs
Q: Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
A: While you can use bottled lemon juice, freshly squeezed juice provides a brighter, more vibrant flavor.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake in a larger pan. Adjust your baking time as needed.
Q: How do I know when the bars are fully baked?
A: The filling should be set and the top should have a light golden color. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean.
For more delicious recipes, check out this high protein chicken salad or satisfy your cravings with crispy garlic chicken fried rice.
Lemon Crumb Bars
Ingredients
For the crust
- 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 filling
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 oz)
- 2 tablespoons sour cream (or plain yogurt)
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon finely grated lemon zest
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and spray with nonstick spray.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, salt, and baking soda.
- In another bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until mixed well.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients until you form a cohesive mixture. Reserve 3/4 cup of this mixture for the topping.
- Press the rest of the mixture into the prepared pan evenly and bake for 10 minutes.
Filling
- While the crust bakes, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, egg yolk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and additional vanilla until smooth.
- Pour the lemon filling over the baked crust, then sprinkle the reserved crumbs on top.
- Bake for another 17 to 20 minutes until the top turns golden brown.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing into squares.