Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe is one of my favorite treats to make. The combination of tangy lemon and buttery crumb topping is simply irresistible. I can still remember the first time I tasted these bars at a family gathering. The bright flavor of lemon instantly brought a smile to my face. Ever since, I have been on a mission to perfect my own version of this delightful dessert.
Why Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe?
Lemon crumb bars are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer picnic, a birthday party, or just want a sweet treat at home, these bars fit the bill. They are refreshing, sweet, and just the right amount of tart. Plus, they are easy to make, which is a big win in my book.
Ingredients for Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe
To make these delicious bars, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Crust and Crumb Topping:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
For the Lemon Filling:
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
How to Make Lemon Crumb Bars
Making lemon crumb bars is a straightforward process. Here’s how to do it step by step.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bars will bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
In a medium bowl, mix the flour, sugar, melted butter, salt, and baking powder together. Stir until the mixture is crumbly. Reserve about one cup of this mixture for the topping. Press the remaining mixture into the bottom of a greased 8×8 inch baking dish.
Step 3: Bake the Crust
Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until it’s lightly golden. This step gives the crust a nice texture and flavor.
Step 4: Make the Lemon Filling
While the crust is baking, whisk together the eggs, sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, flour, and baking powder in a separate bowl. Make sure everything is well combined. The lemon filling should be smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Combine and Bake Again
Once the crust is done baking, remove it from the oven. Pour the lemon filling over the hot crust. Then, sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture on top of the filling.
Step 6: Bake the Bars
Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they are ready when the filling is set and the top is golden brown.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
After baking, let the bars cool in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar if desired, and cut into squares. Enjoy your delicious lemon crumb bars!
Tips for Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe
- Use Fresh Lemons: Fresh lemon juice and zest make a big difference in flavor. Bottled lemon juice lacks the brightness of fresh.
- Don’t Overmix: When making the filling, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture.
- Chill Before Cutting: For cleaner cuts, chill the bars in the refrigerator for a couple of hours before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
Lemon crumb bars are delightful on their own, but you can elevate them even more. Here are some serving ideas:
- Serve with whipped cream for extra creaminess.
- Pair with fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries for a pop of color and flavor.
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side is always a hit.
Storage Tips for Lemon Crumb Bars
If you have leftovers (which is rare), store them in an airtight container. They can last in the fridge for about a week. You can also freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.
Why I Love Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe
I love this Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe because it reminds me of sunny days and family gatherings. The bright lemon flavor instantly lifts my mood. Plus, they are so easy to make, which means I can whip them up anytime I need a sweet treat.
Variations on Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe
If you want to mix things up, here are some fun variations to try:
- Blueberry Lemon Bars: Add fresh blueberries to the lemon filling for a delicious twist.
- Ginger Lemon Bars: Incorporate some grated fresh ginger for a spicy kick.
- Coconut Lemon Bars: Mix in shredded coconut for added texture and flavor.
Baking these bars is more than just a recipe; it’s a way to create memories. Whether you’re enjoying them with family or sharing with friends, they are sure to impress. I hope you enjoy making and eating these lemon crumb bars as much as I do.