Lemon Crumb Bars are the perfect blend of tangy and sweet, with a buttery crumble that melts in your mouth. Each bite bursts with the refreshing flavor of lemon, making these bars a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, attending a potluck, or just looking for a tasty dessert, these bars are sure to impress. Keep reading to discover how to make these irresistible Lemon Crumb Bars that everyone will love!
Ingredients
For the Crust and Topping
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Lemon Filling
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
- ½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust and Topping
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter pieces and vanilla extract.
- Form the Crumble: Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, blend the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press the Crust: Take about 2/3 of the mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until it’s lightly golden.
Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Filling
- Whisk the Filling Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and flour. Add the eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, and salt. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
- Pour over the Crust: Pour the lemon filling over the pre-baked crust.
Step 3: Add the Topping and Bake
- Sprinkle the Topping: Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture evenly over the lemon filling.
- Bake: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the lemon filling is set.
- Cool Completely: Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Cut into Bars: Cut the Lemon Crumb Bars into squares or rectangles.
- Serve: Serve at room temperature or chilled for a refreshing treat.
Conclusion
Lemon Crumb Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the tangy flavor of lemon with a sweet, buttery crumb. These bars are easy to make and perfect for any gathering or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth. Try this recipe today and enjoy the refreshing taste of lemon in every bite!