Lemon Crumb Bars are the perfect balance of sweet and tart, featuring a zesty lemon filling nestled between a buttery oat crust and crumb topping. These bars are as refreshing as they are indulgent, making them an ideal treat for any occasion.
The combination of the creamy lemon layer and crunchy crumble creates a delightful textural contrast, ensuring every bite is satisfying. Serve these bars chilled or at room temperature for a deliciously citrusy dessert or snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
• Bright and Tangy Flavor: The lemon filling offers a refreshing zing that pairs beautifully with the sweet crumb crust.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe beginner-friendly.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for dessert tables, picnics, or as an afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
• 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 3/4 cup packed dark or light brown sugar
• 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
• 1 1/4 cups old-fashioned or quick-cooking oats
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large or 3 medium lemons
• 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
Instructions:
Preparation of Baking Equipment and Preheating
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and position a rack in the middle. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with two sheets of parchment paper placed perpendicularly, leaving at least a 1-inch overhang on all sides for easy removal.
Melting the Butter
• Cut the butter into pieces and melt it in a microwave-safe bowl using 20-second intervals, stirring frequently, until mostly melted (40–60 seconds). Alternatively, melt it on the stovetop and transfer to a bowl.
Preparing the Crumb Mixture
• To the melted butter, add the brown sugar, baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt. Stir until combined. Add the oats and flour, mixing until no dry spots remain. Reserve 1 cup of this crumb mixture for the topping.
Baking the Base Layer
• Press the remaining crumb mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly and compacting it with a spoon or your hands. Bake for 12–14 minutes, until lightly browned and fragrant. Remove from the oven and set aside.
Mixing the Lemon Filling
• Zest the lemons to yield about 2 tablespoons of zest. Juice the lemons to get 1/2 cup of juice. In the same bowl (no need to wash it), whisk together the lemon zest, lemon juice, sweetened condensed milk, and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt until smooth.
Assembling and Baking the Filled Bars
• Pour the lemon filling over the hot, pre-baked crust. Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture evenly over the top. Bake for 22–24 minutes, until the edges are set and lightly browned.
Cooling and Cutting the Bars
• Place the pan on a wire rack and cool completely, about 1 1/2 hours. For a firmer filling, refrigerate for 30 minutes. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Place them on a cutting board and slice into 12 equal pieces.
Tips:
• Fresh Lemons: Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor. Avoid bottled juice as it can taste artificial.
• Chilled Bars: Refrigerate the bars before serving for a firmer, refreshing treat.
• Make Ahead: These bars store well, so you can prepare them a day in advance.
Storage Options:
• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Lemon Crumb Bars are a delightful way to enjoy the vibrant taste of lemons. Their sweet and tangy flavors are sure to impress!
