These Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. With their creamy, tangy lemon filling nestled between a buttery brown sugar crust and a crumbly oat topping, these bars bring a refreshing twist to your dessert table. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, they’re sure to impress family and friends alike.
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars
This dessert is not only delicious but also incredibly appealing for various reasons.
- Easy to Prepare: These bars require minimal effort, making them perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of tangy lemon and sweet crumbly topping creates a balanced taste that everyone will enjoy.
- Versatile Dessert: Ideal for summer picnics, potlucks, or simply as an afternoon snack with tea.
- Make Ahead Option: You can prepare them in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully overnight.
- Impressive Presentation: Dusting with powdered sugar adds an elegant touch that makes these bars look as good as they taste.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 8×8-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Parchment paper or foil
- Nonstick spray
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking Pan: A sturdy pan ensures even baking and helps achieve the perfect texture.
- Mixing Bowls: Having different sizes allows for efficient mixing of dry and wet ingredients without mess.
- Whisk: This tool is essential for incorporating air into your mixtures, resulting in a lighter texture.
Ingredients
For the Crust and Topping:
* 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 Lemon Filling:
* 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
* 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with foil or parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal. Spray generously with nonstick spray.
Step 2: Make the Crust & Topping
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, salt, and baking soda. In a separate large bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk these together for at least one minute until fully combined. Stir in the dry ingredients until well mixed.
Step 3: Form the Crust
Set aside about 3/4 cup of the mixture for the crumb topping. Press the remaining dough evenly into the prepared pan. It will be quite buttery—that’s perfectly fine! Bake this crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes.
Step 4: Prepare the Lemon Filling
While the crust bakes, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, sour cream (or yogurt), egg yolk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth in a bowl.
Step 5: Assemble & Bake
After removing the crust from the oven, pour the lemon filling evenly over it. Be careful not to disturb the crust too much. Crumble the reserved dough over this filling. Bake everything together for another 17-20 minutes or until golden on top and set in the middle.
Step 6: Cool & Serve
Allow your Lemon Crumb Bars to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, use the overhang from your parchment or foil to lift them out of the pan. Slice into squares and enjoy!
How to Serve Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars
Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging yourself, these bars can be served with several tasty additions and garnishes.
Pair with Tea
- Afternoon Tea: Enjoy these lemon bars with a cup of your favorite tea for a refreshing afternoon snack.
- Herbal Infusion: A light herbal tea complements the tangy lemon flavor beautifully.
Add Fresh Fruits
- Berries: Serve with fresh strawberries or blueberries for a burst of color and flavor.
- Citrus Slices: Garnish with thin slices of lemon or orange to enhance the citrus experience.
Dust with Sugar
- Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a sweet finish and makes the bars look elegant.
- Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes over the top for added texture and flavor.
Serve with Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a creamy contrast to the zesty bars.
- Lemon Sorbet: For an extra refreshing treat, serve alongside lemon sorbet.
How to Perfect Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars
To ensure your Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars turn out perfectly every time, consider these handy tips:
- Boldly Measure Ingredients: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the right texture. Use measuring cups and spoons carefully.
- Boldly Preheat Oven: Always preheat your oven to the correct temperature before baking. This helps achieve an even bake.
- Boldly Cool Completely: Let the bars cool completely before slicing. This helps them set properly and makes cutting easier.
- Boldly Use Fresh Lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest provide better flavor than bottled alternatives. Your bars will taste brighter!
- Boldly Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness for up to 5 days.
Best Side Dishes for Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars
These delicious Lemon Crumb Bars pair well with various side dishes that enhance their flavor. Here are some excellent options:
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the bars.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a creamy, crunchy side that complements the dessert.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, such as brie or goat cheese, offers a savory contrast to the sweet lemon bars.
- Mixed Nuts: Serve a bowl of roasted nuts for a crunchy snack that pairs well with the soft texture of the crumb bars.
- Crackers and Hummus: Light crackers served with hummus create an enjoyable savory option alongside dessert.
- Iced Coffee or Espresso: A chilled coffee drink can refresh your palate after enjoying the rich flavors of the crumb bars.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars, it’s easy to make a few common errors that can impact the final result. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Overmixing the Dough: This can lead to tough bars instead of crumbly ones. Mix just until combined for a lighter texture.
- Using Bottled Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice enhances flavor significantly. Always opt for freshly squeezed juice to achieve the best taste.
- Not Cooling Completely: Cutting the bars before they cool can cause them to fall apart. Allow them to cool completely at room temperature.
- Skipping the Zest: Lemon zest adds depth and brightness. Don’t omit this ingredient, as it’s key for flavor.
- Incorrect Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is calibrated correctly. An incorrect temperature can lead to underbaking or burning.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Keep in a single layer to maintain texture.
Freezing Instructions
- Wrap bars tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
- Label with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Instructions
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes until just heated through.
- Microwave: Heat individual servings on low power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet on low heat, covering with a lid, and warm for several minutes, flipping carefully.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure that your oats are certified gluten-free as well.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
Plain yogurt is an excellent substitute for sour cream in this recipe without compromising flavor or texture.
How do I know when my bars are done baking?
The top should be lightly golden, and the filling should be set but may still jiggle slightly when shaken.
Can I customize my Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars?
Absolutely! You can add berries or nuts to the filling or topping for added flavor and texture.
How do I prevent my crust from getting soggy?
Ensure that you bake the crust before adding the lemon filling. This helps create a barrier against moisture.
Final Thoughts
These Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars are not only delicious but also versatile. They make a perfect treat for gatherings or a simple dessert at home. Feel free to customize them with your favorite flavors or toppings! Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delightful combination of tangy lemon and sweet crumbs.
Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 9 bars 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars, where a creamy, tangy lemon filling meets a buttery brown sugar crust and a crumbly oat topping. These bars are a refreshing twist on traditional desserts, making them perfect for any occasion, from summer picnics to cozy afternoon snacks. With minimal effort required, even novice bakers will find success with this easy recipe. The elegant presentation, enhanced by a dusting of powdered sugar, ensures they’ll impress family and friends alike. Experience the bright burst of citrus and sweet crumbs in every bite!
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats
- 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 10 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and spray with nonstick spray.
- In one bowl, whisk together flour, oats, baking soda; in another bowl combine melted butter, brown sugar. Mix until combined.
- Set aside a portion of the mixture for the topping; press the remainder into the pan to form the crust. Bake for 10 minutes.
- While crust is baking, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, lemon zest until smooth.
- Pour lemon filling over crust once baked; sprinkle reserved mixture on top and bake for another 17-20 minutes until golden.
- Cool completely before slicing into squares.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
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