Lemon crumble bars are a delightful dessert that combines the tangy freshness of lemon with a buttery, crumbly base. They’re perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant tea parties. This recipe yields a batch of delicious bars that are sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Lemon Filling:
- 2 large eggs
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)
- Zest of 1 lemon (about 1 tablespoon)
Optional Topping:
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
- Prepare the Crust:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt. Stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs and holds together when pressed.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to create a smooth, compact crust.
- Bake the Crust:
- Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake the crust for 15-18 minutes, or until it is lightly golden brown around the edges. Remove from the oven and set aside.
- Make the Lemon Filling:
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the lemon filling over the baked crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula to cover the entire surface.
- Bake the Bars:
- Return the baking pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are lightly golden brown.
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove the pan from the oven and let the lemon crumble bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Once cooled, you can optionally dust the top with powdered sugar for a decorative finish.
- Cut and Enjoy:
- Use a sharp knife to cut the bars into squares or rectangles. Wipe the knife clean between cuts for clean edges.
- Serve the lemon crumble bars at room temperature. They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Cook’s Tips:
- Fresh Lemon Juice: For the best flavor, use freshly squeezed lemon juice. Bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch, but fresh is preferred for optimal taste.
- Zesting the Lemon: When zesting the lemon, grate only the outer yellow part of the peel. Avoid the bitter white pith underneath, as it can impart a bitter flavor to your bars.
- Variations: Experiment with adding a thin layer of fruit preserves between the crust and filling for extra flavor. Raspberry or apricot preserves pair especially well with the lemony tang.
- Storage: Store leftover lemon crumble bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can also be frozen for longer storage; simply thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Serving Suggestions: These bars are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
These lemon crumble bars are a delightful treat that balances the tartness of lemon with a sweet, buttery crust. They’re easy to make and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether you’re enjoying them as a dessert or a sweet snack, their bright citrus flavor is sure to brighten your day.
Try making these lemon crumble bars for your next baking adventure, and enjoy the wonderful combination of flavors and textures they offer. They’re a versatile dessert that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!
