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

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and prepare an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a saucepan, melt butter over low heat, then mix in brown sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add rolled oats and flour to the mixture, stirring until a thick, crumbly dough forms.
4. Press part of the dough into the baking pan, reserving one cup for topping, and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
5. Zest lemons and juice them to obtain half a cup of juice.
6. In a bowl, mix lemon juice, lemon zest, sweetened condensed milk, and remaining salt until well combined.
7. After cooling the crust for 5-10 minutes, pour the lemon filling over it and spread evenly.
8. Sprinkle the reserved crumb topping over the lemon filling and return to the oven.
9. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until the filling is set around the edges.
10. Cool in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Chill in the refrigerator for about an hour for a firmer texture.
12. Slice into squares or rectangles and dust with powdered sugar before serving.

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!