Lemon Crumb Bars

These tangy and sweet Lemon Crumb Bars combine a buttery oat crust with a creamy, refreshing lemon filling. They’re easy to make, bursting with citrus flavor, and perfect for a light, bright dessert. Whether you’re looking for something simple to serve at a gathering or just want a treat to enjoy at home, these lemon crumb bars are a delightful option!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lemon Crumb Bars are a perfect balance of tangy lemon and sweet, buttery oat crumble. The oat crust adds texture, while the lemon filling provides a smooth, zesty contrast. They’re easy to make and bake, and the combination of flavors makes them the perfect treat for any occasion. Plus, you can refrigerate them for a refreshing, chilled dessert!

Ingredients

For the Crust and Topping:

• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 ¼ cups old-fashioned rolled oats

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon baking soda

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup packed light brown sugar

• ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Lemon Filling:

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk

• 2 tablespoons finely grated lemon zest

• ½ cup fresh lemon juice

• 2 large egg yolks

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking pan with baking spray.

2. Make the Crust and Topping: In a large bowl, combine the flour, oats, salt, and baking soda. Stir in the granulated sugar and brown sugar. Add the melted butter and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

3. Form the Crust: Press half of the oat mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside.

4. Prepare the Lemon Filling: While the crust is baking, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, lemon zest, lemon juice, and egg yolks in a separate bowl until smooth.

5. Assemble the Bars: Once the crust is baked, pour the lemon filling over the warm crust. Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture evenly over the top.

6. Bake the Bars: Bake for an additional 20-22 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the filling has set.

7. Cool and Refrigerate: Allow the bars to cool completely, then refrigerate until firm. For cleaner slices, chill the bars thoroughly or freeze briefly before cutting to prevent the filling from oozing out.

8. Optional Chocolate Dipping: For an extra treat, dip the bottom half of the frozen bars in melted white chocolate. Place them on a wax paper-lined baking sheet and refrigerate until set.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 35 minutes

• Total Time: 50 minutes

• Servings: 6 servings

Variations

• Add Fruit: Top the lemon filling with fresh berries, like blueberries or raspberries, for a fruity twist.

• Make It Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.

• Chocolate Version: For a chocolatey touch, drizzle the bars with chocolate ganache after they’ve cooled.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.

• Reheating: These bars are best served chilled, but you can warm them slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds if you prefer them at room temperature.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of milk instead of sweetened condensed milk?

Sweetened condensed milk is essential for the texture and sweetness of the lemon filling, but you could try using a homemade version of condensed milk or another creamy substitute for a different taste.

2. Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, these bars actually benefit from chilling in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight, as it helps set the filling and makes slicing easier.

3. Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice will give the bars the best flavor, but if you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can be used as a substitute.

4. Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, you can freeze them for up to 2-3 months. Let the bars cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

5. How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The bars are done when the top is lightly golden, and the filling is set. You can insert a toothpick to check that the filling isn’t runny.

6. How can I make the topping extra crunchy?

For a crunchier topping, you can add a tablespoon of brown sugar to the remaining oat mixture or sprinkle some chopped nuts, like pecans, on top before baking.

7. Can I use a different crust for the bars?

Yes, you can try a graham cracker crust or even a shortbread crust for a different flavor and texture.

8. Can I make the lemon filling sweeter?

If you prefer a sweeter filling, add a little more sugar to the lemon filling mixture or increase the sweetened condensed milk to your liking.

9. What can I use if I don’t have an 8×8-inch pan?

You can use a 9×9-inch pan, but keep in mind that the bars may be thinner, so you might need to adjust the baking time slightly.

10. Can I add more lemon zest for a stronger flavor?

Yes, feel free to add more lemon zest to the filling for a more intense citrus flavor. Just be mindful not to overpower the filling with too much zest.

Conclusion

Lemon Crumb Bars are the perfect balance of tangy and sweet, with a buttery oat crust and a creamy lemon filling that’s simply irresistible. They’re quick to prepare, and the flavors are light yet satisfying—making them the perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a summer gathering or just craving a citrusy treat, these bars are sure to delight!

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