Best Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe

Name: Lemon Crumb Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 large egg; Zest of 1 lemon; 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; Powdered sugar for dusting

Recipe By:

James Walker

Posted:

February 24, 2025

Updated:

February 24, 2025

Pin5

5 Shares

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Have you ever tasted a dessert that perfectly balances sweetness with a zesty kick? Lemon crumb bars are just that—a delightful blend of buttery crust and tangy lemon filling that tantalizes your taste buds. These treats are not only visually appealing but also incredibly satisfying, making them perfect for any gathering or quiet afternoon at home.

Growing up, my family often made these delicious lemon crumb bars during the summer months. The aroma of freshly baked lemons wafting through the kitchen would draw everyone in, creating an atmosphere filled with anticipation. Whether served at a picnic or enjoyed as an afternoon snack with tea, the refreshing flavors of lemon crumb bars always bring back wonderful memories. If you’re looking to impress your guests or simply indulge in a sweet treat, follow along as we explore how to make these delectable bars.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Crumb Bars

Refreshing Flavor: The bright citrus flavor of lemons brings a refreshing twist to traditional desserts, making each bite energizing and uplifting.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up these delicious bars in no time.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer barbecue or holiday gathering, these lemon crumb bars are versatile enough to fit any event.
Great Make-Ahead Treat: These bars store well in the refrigerator, making them an ideal make-ahead dessert for busy schedules.

Recipe preparation

Ingredients for Lemon Crumb Bars

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

All-Purpose Flour: Essential for creating the crumbly crust; using fresh flour will ensure the best texture.
Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness to both the crust and the filling; adjust based on your taste preference.
Unsalted Butter: Provides richness and moisture; ensure it’s softened for easier mixing.
Fresh Lemons: For zest and juice; use organic lemons when possible for better flavor.
Baking Powder: Helps the filling rise slightly for a light texture; be sure to check its freshness before use.
Eggs: Bind all ingredients together while adding richness; use large eggs for consistent results.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Lemon Crumb Bars

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

In a bowl, mix together flour, sugar, and butter until you achieve a crumbly texture. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your lined baking pan.

Step 3: Bake the Crust

Bake the crust in your preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until it turns lightly golden. Remove from oven and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

In another bowl, whisk together eggs, granulated sugar, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, baking powder, and flour until smooth. This will create a creamy filling.

Step 5: Combine Filling with Crust

Pour the filling over the slightly cooled crust. Spread it evenly with a spatula before returning it to bake.

Step 6: Bake Again

Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until set and slightly firm to touch. Let cool completely before slicing into squares.

For serving suggestions: Dust with powdered sugar for extra sweetness or garnish with fresh berries for added flavor.

Serving and storing

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Select Fresh Lemons: Always choose fresh lemons as they provide superior flavor compared to bottled juice.
Chill Before Slicing: Allowing your lemon crumb bars to chill in the refrigerator makes slicing easier and enhances their texture.
Adjust Sweetness: Taste your filling before baking; if you prefer it sweeter or more tart, adjust accordingly by adding more sugar or lemon juice.

Mistakes to avoid

Using Old Lemons: Fresh lemons are essential for the best flavor in Lemon Crumb Bars. Avoid using old or dried-out lemons, as they will not provide the juicy zest needed for a vibrant taste. Always select firm, bright yellow lemons. This ensures you get the maximum juice and zest, contributing to a fresh and tangy filling.
Neglecting to Chill the Dough: One common mistake is skipping the chilling step for the crust. Chilling your dough helps it firm up, making it easier to press into the pan. If you don’t chill it, your bars may end up crumbly and hard to cut. Aim for at least 30 minutes of chilling time before baking for optimal results.
Overbaking the Bars: Overbaking can lead to dry Lemon Crumb Bars that lose their delightful texture. Keep a close eye on them as they bake; they should be set around the edges but slightly soft in the center. The bars will continue to firm up as they cool, so take them out when they are just done to ensure a tender bite.
Not Prepping Your Pan Properly: Failing to line your baking dish with parchment paper can lead to sticky situations when trying to remove your Lemon Crumb Bars. Always line your pan with parchment so you can easily lift them out after cooling. This simple step makes cutting and serving much cleaner and easier.
Ignoring Flavor Enhancements: While lemon is the star ingredient in these bars, ignoring other flavor enhancements can lead to a one-dimensional taste. Consider adding a pinch of salt or vanilla extract to deepen the flavors. These small additions can elevate your dessert from good to exceptional without overpowering the lemony goodness.

Ingredients

To make delightful Lemon Crumb Bars, gather the following ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour

– 1/2 cup granulated sugar

– 1/4 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

– 1 large egg

– Zest of 1 lemon

– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

– Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Lemon Crumb Bars:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add the softened butter and mix until crumbly. Press half of this mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan.

In another bowl, whisk together the egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, and baking powder until well combined. Pour this mixture over the crust in the pan. Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture on top. Bake for about 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them into squares. Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

These Lemon Crumb Bars are versatile and pair wonderfully with:

- A scoop of vanilla ice cream: The creamy texture complements the zesty filling.

- A dollop of whipped cream: Adds a light and airy element to each bite.

Fresh berries: Raspberries or blueberries enhance both flavor and presentation.

FAQs

What makes Lemon Crumb Bars unique?

Lemon Crumb Bars stand out due to their bright, tangy flavor balanced by a sweet crumbly base. The combination of fresh lemon juice and zest creates a refreshing taste that brightens any occasion. Unlike traditional lemon bars that have a custard-like filling, these bars offer a delightful texture that is both soft and crumbly.

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

While you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch, using fresh lemon juice is recommended for optimal flavor. Fresh juice provides a vibrant tartness that enhances the overall taste of Lemon Crumb Bars. Additionally, freshly grated lemon zest adds aromatic oils that bottled varieties lack.

How should I store leftover Lemon Crumb Bars?

Store leftover Lemon Crumb Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator where they can last up to a week. To enjoy them later, consider freezing individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.

Can I add other flavors to my Lemon Crumb Bars?

Absolutely! You can experiment with various flavors by adding ingredients like lavender or coconut for a different twist. Incorporating poppy seeds will also give a delightful crunch while maintaining that classic lemon flavor.

Conclusion for Lemon Crumb Bars

In conclusion, making Lemon Crumb Bars is both fun and rewarding. This recipe combines simple ingredients with easy-to-follow steps, resulting in delicious treats perfect for any gathering or snack time at home. Remember to use fresh lemons for maximum flavor impact and consider adding personal touches through additional flavors or toppings. Enjoy these delightful bars chilled or at room temperature—they’re sure to impress family and friends alike! Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply indulging yourself, Lemon Crumb Bars offer a zesty sweetness that’s hard to resist.