Tangy Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe

Craving a dessert that’s crisp, creamy, and bursting with flavor? This Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe delivers a perfect balance of crumbly streusel and a tart lemon filling that’s sure to delight. With a straightforward process and irresistible results, this Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe is a carefully tested gem you’ll adore. Here’s why it’s your next must-bake!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crisp and Creamy: A buttery crumble hugs a smooth, zesty filling in this Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe.
• Perfect Balance: Sweet streusel meets tart lemon for a refreshing bite.
• Easy to Make: This Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe comes together with simple steps and ingredients.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Chill and slice for a grab-and-go treat.

Tools Needed

To create this delightful Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe, you’ll need a few essentials. Missing anything? Visit Our Shop for quality kitchen tools!

• 9×9 Baking Pan: Ideal for a thick, even bake.
• Large Mixing Bowl: For mixing the crumbly base and topping.
• Whisk and Spatula: Key for combining filling and pressing layers.
• Parchment Paper: Makes lifting bars out a breeze.

Ingredients

For the Crumb Layers in the Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe:

• 2 ⅓ cups (280g) all-purpose flour
• ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (100g) firmly-packed light brown sugar
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon baking powder
• 12 tablespoons (1 ½ sticks) unsalted butter, melted

For the Lemon Filling:

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 4 large egg yolks
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• ⅛ teaspoon salt
• ⅔ cup (160ml) lemon juice (fresh preferred)

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Make Crumb Base: In a large bowl, whisk 2 ⅓ cups all-purpose flour, ½ cup granulated sugar, ½ cup brown sugar, ¾ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon baking powder. Drizzle in 12 tablespoons melted butter and stir with a spatula until all flour is moistened and crumbly.
3. Layer Base: Line a 9×9 pan with parchment paper, leaving overhangs. Press two-thirds of the crumb mixture into the pan with a spoon, smoothing it evenly.
4. Bake Base: Bake at 350°F for 12 minutes until lightly golden. Remove and cool slightly.
5. Prepare Filling: In a bowl, whisk 1 can sweetened condensed milk, 4 egg yolks, 2 tablespoons heavy cream, and ⅛ teaspoon salt until combined. Slowly whisk in ⅔ cup lemon juice until smooth.
6. Assemble: Pour the lemon filling over the baked base, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the top.
7. Bake Again: Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes until the top is set (center may jiggle slightly). Cool to room temperature (1 hour), then chill in the fridge for 4–6 hours.
8. Slice and Serve: Lift out using parchment, transfer to a cutting board, and cut into bars. Enjoy your Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe!

Expert Tips For Perfect Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe

• Press Firmly: Compact the base layer to avoid a soggy bottom in this Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: Enhances flavor, though bottled works too.
• Chill Thoroughly: Ensures clean cuts and a set filling.
• Reserve Crumbs: Eyeball two-thirds for the base, saving enough for the top.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 16 bars
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 27 minutes
• Total Time: 47 minutes (plus chilling)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Dry Crumbs: Ensure all flour is moistened with butter in this Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe.
• Overbaking: Pull when the center is mostly set—overcooking dries it out.
• No Parchment: Skipping it makes removal tricky—don’t cut in the pan.
• Stringy Yolks: Remove white bits for a smooth filling.

Variations

• Lime Twist: Swap lemon juice for lime juice in your Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe.
• Berry Boost: Add a handful of crushed raspberries to the filling.
• Spiced Crumbs: Mix cinnamon into the crumb layer.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped almonds over the top.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: Serve chilled—no reheating needed for this Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe.
• Freezing: Freeze cut bars for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge.

FAQs

1. Can I use bottled lemon juice in this Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe?

Yes, it’s still tasty, though fresh is brighter.

2. Why is my filling runny?

It needs full chilling (4–6 hours) to set properly.

3. Can I use salted butter?

Yes, but reduce the added salt to ½ teaspoon in this Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe.

4. How do I cut clean bars?

Chill completely and use a sharp knife wiped between cuts.

5. Can I make it gluten-free?

Swap all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free blend.

6. Why add heavy cream?

It softens the tartness and adds richness to this Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe.

Conclusion

This Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe is a sweet-tart triumph, with its buttery crumble and creamy lemon filling making every bite a joy. It’s easy to whip up, perfect for sharing, and a refreshing twist on classic bars. Bake this Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe today and savor the zesty deliciousness—it’s a treat you won’t resist! Happy baking!