Looking for a dessert that’s both refreshing and indulgent? This Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe delivers a crisp, crumbly streusel topping and base with a creamy, tart lemon filling that’s simply irresistible. Perfectly balanced and easy to make, this Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe is a crowd-pleaser you’ll want to bake again and again. Here’s why it’s a must-try!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect Texture: Crumbly layers sandwich a silky lemon center in this Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe.
- Sweet-Tart Bliss: A bright lemon kick meets subtle sweetness.
- Simple Steps: This Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe comes together with minimal effort.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Chill and cut for a stress-free treat.
Tools Needed
To create this delightful Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe, you’ll need a few essentials. Missing anything? Visit Our Shop for quality kitchen gear!
- 9×9 Baking Pan: Ideal for a thick, even batch.
- Large Mixing Bowl: For mixing the crumbly base and topping.
- Whisk and Spatula: Key for blending filling and pressing crumbs.
- Parchment Paper: Makes lifting bars out a breeze.
Ingredients
For the Crumb Layer in the Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe:
- 2 ⅓ cups (280g) all-purpose flour
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (100g) firmly-packed light brown sugar
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- 12 tablespoons (1 ½ sticks) unsalted butter, melted
For the Lemon Filling:
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 4 large egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- ⅔ cup (160ml) lemon juice (fresh preferred)
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Make Crumb Layer: In a large bowl, whisk together 2 ⅓ cups all-purpose flour, ½ cup granulated sugar, ½ cup brown sugar, ¾ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon baking powder. Drizzle in 12 tablespoons melted butter and stir with a spatula until all flour is moistened and crumbly.
- Prep Pan: Line a 9×9 pan with parchment paper, leaving overhangs. Press two-thirds of the crumb mixture into the bottom, smoothing with a spoon for an even layer.
- Bake Base: Bake at 350°F for 12 minutes until lightly golden.
- Mix Filling: In a bowl, whisk 1 can sweetened condensed milk, 4 egg yolks, 2 tablespoons heavy cream, and ⅛ teaspoon salt until combined. Slowly whisk in ⅔ cup lemon juice until smooth.
- Assemble: Pour the lemon filling over the baked base, spreading evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture on top.
- Bake Again: Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes until the top is set (center may jiggle slightly).
- Cool and Chill: Cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then refrigerate for 4–6 hours. Lift out using parchment, cut, and enjoy your Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe!
Expert Tips For Perfect Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe
- Press Firmly: Ensure the base is compact to avoid a soggy bottom in this Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe.
- Fresh Lemon: Fresh lemon juice boosts flavor over bottled.
- Save Crumbs: Reserve enough topping for a generous layer.
- Chill Well: Full chilling sets the filling perfectly.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 16 bars
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 27 minutes
- Total Time: 47 minutes (plus 5–7 hours cooling/chilling)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Loose Crumbs: Press the base firmly or it’ll crumble in this Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe.
- Underbaking: Ensure the filling sets—don’t pull too early.
- No Parchment: Skipping it makes removal tricky.
- Overmixing Filling: Whisk just until combined to avoid curdling.
Variations
- Lime Twist: Swap lemon juice for lime in this Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe.
- Berry Boost: Add a layer of crushed raspberries under the filling.
- Spiced Crumbs: Mix cinnamon into the crumb layer.
- Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup chopped almonds to the topping.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Reheating: Serve chilled—no reheating needed for this Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe.
- Freezing: Freeze cut bars for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge.
FAQs
1. Can I use bottled lemon juice in this Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe?
Yes, it works, but fresh juice gives the best flavor.
2. Why is my filling runny?
It needs longer chilling—ensure 4–6 hours in the fridge.
3. Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but reduce the added salt to ½ teaspoon in this Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe.
4. How do I cut clean bars?
Chill fully and use a sharp knife wiped between cuts.
5. Can I make it gluten-free?
Swap all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free blend.
6. Why add heavy cream?
It softens the tartness and adds richness to this Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe.
Conclusion
This Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe is a perfect harmony of crisp, buttery crumbs and a creamy, zesty lemon filling that’s both refreshing and indulgent. It’s easy to make, beautifully balanced, and ideal for any occasion. Bake this Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe today and savor the sweet-tart magic—your taste buds will thank you! Happy baking!
