Description

Lemon crumb bars are the epitome of sunshine on a plate. These delightful treats blend the tart brightness of fresh lemons with a sweet, buttery crumb base, offering an exquisite balance of flavors and textures. Originating from the desire to create simple yet satisfying desserts using common ingredients, lemon crumb bars have found their way into homes and hearts. Each bite is reminiscent of warm summer days and family gatherings, making them not just a dessert but an experience steeped in flavor and nostalgia.

The tangy lemon filling, rich with the zest of fresh lemons, is delicately nestled between layers of crumbly goodness. This dessert is simple to prepare yet produces an impressive outcome that will garner admiration from family and friends alike. Perfect as a sweet treat at gatherings or a delightful pick-me-up with your afternoon tea, these bars are versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, you’ll find that the ease of preparation doesn't compromise taste—in fact, it only enhances it!

Ingredients

• Dough:
• Eight tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened (one stick)
• Three-quarters cup of packed brown sugar (light or dark)
• Three-quarters teaspoon of baking powder
• Three-quarters teaspoon of kosher salt (divided)
• One and one-quarter cups of old-fashioned rolled oats (or quick-cooking oats)
• One cup of all-purpose flour
• Filling:
• Two large or three medium lemons (for zesting and juicing)
• One 14-ounce can of sweetened condensed milk
• Optional Topping:
• A handful of powdered sugar for dusting

Preparation Method

To create these delightful lemon crumb bars, begin by preparing your baking pan and oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, take an 8-inch square baking dish or similar-sized pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides. This will make removing your beautiful bars much easier after baking.

Now it’s time to create the crumb mixture that forms the cornerstone of this dish. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat, allowing it to become completely liquid but not browned. Once melted, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the brown sugar, mixing it well until thoroughly combined. Next, incorporate the baking powder and half a teaspoon of kosher salt. As you incorporate these ingredients, they will begin to form a luscious, caramel-like base.

Gradually add the old-fashioned rolled oats and all-purpose flour to the butter-sugar mixture. Stir well until everything is evenly combined; you should have a thick, crumbly dough. The addition of oats gives the bars a delightful texture and heartiness that lifts this dessert beyond the ordinary.

Partially press the crumb mixture into the prepared baking pan, reserving approximately one cup of the crumb mixture for the topping. This base layer should be firm but not compacted to keep it light and airy when baked. Place the pan in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and fragrant. Keep a close eye on it—you’ll know it's ready when it emits an irresistible toasty aroma.

While the base is baking, turn your attention to creating that refreshingly zesty lemon filling. Start by zesting the lemons, making sure to avoid the bitter white pith beneath the skin. Measure out two tablespoons of lemon zest and set it aside. Next, cut the lemons in half and juice them until you have approximately half a cup of fresh lemon juice. The bright acidity of the juice will perfectly complement the sweetness of the condensed milk.

In a medium bowl, combine the lemon juice, lemon zest, the can of sweetened condensed milk, and the remaining quarter teaspoon of kosher salt. Whisk these ingredients together until they are completely blended, creating a luscious and fragrant filling that’s both creamy and zesty.

Once the base has finished baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly for about 5-10 minutes. After cooling, pour the prepared lemon filling directly over the warm crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.

Now it’s time to add the reserved crumb topping. Evenly sprinkle it over the lemon filling, allowing some of the delicious filling to peek through. This will create a lovely visual contrast and add texture to each bite.

Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the lemon filling is set around the edges but still slightly wobbly in the center. A toothpick inserted into the middle should come out with some sticky filling—this indicates that it's perfectly baked! Once finished, remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

For a firmer texture, consider chilling the bars in the refrigerator for about an hour. This will not only help them hold their shape when cut but intensify the refreshing lemon flavor as well.

When you're ready to serve these delightful treats, slice them into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference. For an added touch of elegance, consider dusting the tops with powdered sugar just before serving, adding a beautiful presentation element.

Tips and Conclusion

If you wish to mix things up or adjust the flavor profile, consider incorporating fresh fruits or berries into the filling. Blueberries or raspberries could add a delightful twist to the classic lemon flavor. You can also make the bars gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with an equal amount of finely ground almond flour or a gluten-free baking blend.

To store leftover bars, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to a week. They also freeze beautifully! Just wrap them in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature for a few hours.
The experience of preparing lemon crumb bars is as delightful as savoring them. With the refreshing burst of citrus and the comforting crunch of the crumb topping, these bars promise to brighten any occasion. Whether enjoyed at a summer picnic, a cozy afternoon tea, or as a simple indulgence at home, lemon crumb bars are sure to become a beloved recipe in your culinary repertoire.

As you explore this delightful treat, feel free to browse our site for other related recipes that celebrate bright flavors and easy preparation. From simple sweet treats to intricate desserts, there’s always something new to discover! Don’t forget to share your creation with friends and family—let them enjoy a piece of sunshine in a bar!