Introduction
There’s something magical about the zest of lemons that can brighten up any day! If you’re looking to bring a refreshing burst of flavor to your dessert table, these Lemon Crumb Bars with a Twist are just the ticket! Imagine biting into a buttery, crumbly base that gives way to a tangy lemon filling, all while the sweet scent of citrus wafts through your kitchen. It’s a perfect balance of sweet and tart that will make your taste buds dance with joy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Lemon Crumb Bars are not just delicious—they’re incredibly easy to whip up! With simple, everyday ingredients, this recipe shines in its simplicity. It takes just 45 minutes from start to finish and yields 12 scrumptious bars. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, attending a potluck, or just want to treat yourself, these bars are a delightful dessert that everyone will love. Plus, they’re perfect for sharing! What’s not to love about these sunny little treats? ☀️
Ingredients 🍋
- 250g all-purpose flour
- 200g granulated sugar
- 150g unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 75ml lemon juice
- 2 large eggs
- 200ml sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Necessary Tools 🛠️
- 9×9-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Parchment paper
- Rubber spatula
Ingredient Swaps and Additions 🍓
- Don’t have sweetened condensed milk? No problem! You can substitute it with cream or Greek yogurt for a different texture.
- Want to kick it up a notch? Try adding fresh blueberries or raspberries to the lemon filling for a fruity twist.
- You could also sprinkle some coconut flakes on top for an added crunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions 🥄
1️⃣ Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and line your baking pan with parchment paper to make removal easy later.
2️⃣ Prepare the Crust
In a bowl, mix 200g of flour, 75g of sugar, baking powder, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and stir until it becomes crumbly—this is going to make your delicious crust!
3️⃣ Press the Crust
Press half of this crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan. This will serve as the base for your bars.
4️⃣ Make the Lemon Filling
In another bowl, whisk together the remaining sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, eggs, condensed milk, and vanilla extract. Add the remaining flour and mix until the filling is smooth and creamy.
5️⃣ Assemble
Pour the lemon mixture over the crust and spread it evenly. The brightness of the yellow filling will make your heart smile! 😍
6️⃣ Add the Crumb Topping
Take the reserved crumb mixture and sprinkle it generously over the top.
7️⃣ Bake
Pop it into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top turns a lovely golden brown.
8️⃣ Cool and Slice
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan; this is crucial for getting that perfect slice!
Serving Suggestions 🍽️
- Serve these Lemon Crumb Bars with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience.
- They also pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or lemonade, making them a hit at any gathering!
Pro Tips for Success ✅
- Zest first, juice later! It’s much easier to zest lemons before cutting them.
- Let your bars cool in the pan for at least an hour for easier slicing.
- Experiment with lemon juice and zest to suit your preference—more zest equals more flavor!
Storing and Reheating 📦
- Store: Keep your leftover bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
- Freeze: You can freeze them for up to 3 months; just thaw them in the fridge before serving.
- Reheat: To enjoy them warm, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Nutritional Information 🍏 (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 3g
- Sugar: 12g
FAQ Section ❓
1. Can I use bottled lemon juice? While fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, bottled juice will work in a pinch.
2. Can I freeze these bars? Absolutely! Store them in an airtight container and freeze for up to three months.
3. Can I use gluten-free flour? Yes! Just use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for similar results.
4. Can I add nuts to this recipe? Definitely! Chopped almonds or walnuts make an excellent addition.
5. How do I know when they’re done baking? The top should be light golden brown and slightly firm to the touch.
Conclusion 🎉
These Lemon Crumb Bars with a Twist are not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor and sunshine. You’ll find yourself craving these delightful treats repeatedly! Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your creation on social media. Tag us on Pinterest or Instagram—I’d love to see your wonderful photos! 📸
