Did you know that nearly 60% of Americans prefer desserts with a tangy twist over overly sweet ones? Lemon Crumb Bars perfectly balance that zesty flavor with a buttery, crumbly crust that's hard to resist. I remember making these for the first time and being surprised at how simple they were, yet they always impress. If you're looking for a dessert that's both revitalizing and indulgent, this recipe might just become your new favorite.
What You'll Love About This Recipe
These lemon crumb bars are a delightful treat that perfectly balances tangy and sweet.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it a stress-free recipe.
- Perfect Texture: A buttery crust paired with a zesty lemon filling creates a delicious contrast.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for parties, potlucks, or as an invigorating dessert any time of year.
Recipe
Lemon crumb bars are a delightful treat that combines the tangy zest of lemons with a buttery, crumbly crust. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are easy to make and sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix 1 cup butter, 1/2 cup sugar, 2 cups flour, and salt until crumbly. Press into the prepared dish.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden.
- In another bowl, whisk eggs, 1 1/2 cups sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and 1/4 cup flour until smooth. Pour over the baked crust.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the filling is set.
- Cool completely, then dust with powdered sugar before cutting into bars.
Notes:
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Serving: 12 bars
Calories: 280 per bar
Cuisine: American
Equipment
Gathering the right tools assures smooth preparation of these lemon crumb bars. Essential equipment simplifies the process and guarantees consistent results.
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls (large and medium)
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Zester or grater
- Knife or bench scraper
- Wire cooling rack
- Parchment paper or non-stick spray
Nutrition
Lemon crumb bars offer a delightful balance of tangy and sweet flavors while providing a satisfying treat. Understanding their nutritional profile helps in enjoying them as part of a balanced diet.
- Calories: Approximately 220 per serving
- Carbohydrates: 28g, primarily from sugars and flour
- Fat: 11g, with a mix of butter and crumbs
- Protein: 2g, mainly from eggs
- Sugar: 15g, from sugar and lemon filling
- Sodium: 85mg, contributed by salt and butter
What to Serve With This Recipe
I love serving these lemon crumb bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a handful of fresh berries for a revitalizing contrast. Whipped cream adds a light, creamy touch, while a cup of hot coffee or iced tea makes the perfect drink pairing. You can mix and match these options to create a delicious dessert combo that suits your taste!
Vanilla Ice Cream
When serving these lemon crumb bars, I always think a scoop of vanilla ice cream makes them even better. The cool, creamy texture of the ice cream balances the tangy, zesty lemon perfectly, creating a mouthwatering contrast. I love how the ice cream melts slightly into the crumbly layers, making each bite even more indulgent. It's a simple addition, but it takes the dessert to a whole new level. If you're serving these bars to guests, the ice cream adds a touch of elegance, too. Trust me, once you try it, you won't want to enjoy these bars any other way.
Fresh Berries
Adding fresh berries to your lemon crumb bar spread is a game-changer. Their juicy sweetness balances the tangy lemon and buttery crumble perfectly. Here are three ways to make them shine:
- Mix and Match: Try a combo of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a colorful burst of flavor.
- Lightly Sweeten: Toss the berries with a sprinkle of sugar to draw out their natural juices, creating a syrupy drizzle.
- Fresh Garnish: Scatter a handful over the top just before serving for a pretty, Instagram-worthy finish.
I love how berries add a fresh, vibrant touch to every bite!
Whipped Cream
To give your lemon crumb bars an extra indulgent twist, you can't go wrong with a dollop of whipped cream. I love how its light, airy texture balances the tangy, crumbly bars perfectly. Making it from scratch is simple—just whip heavy cream with a bit of sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form. It's worth the effort! If I'm feeling fancy, I'll add a tiny sprinkle of lemon zest on top for a pop of color and flavor. Store-bought works too, but homemade feels extra special. Trust me, it's a match made in dessert heaven.
Hot Coffee
If you're enjoying those lemon crumb bars, a cup of hot coffee makes them even better. The tangy lemon flavor pairs perfectly with the rich, warm taste of coffee, creating a balance that's hard to resist. I love how the bitterness of the coffee cuts through the sweetness, making each bite and sip feel like a treat. Here's why I think it's the ultimate combo:
- Flavor Match: The zesty lemon and bold coffee complement each other.
- Warm Comfort: A hot drink adds coziness to your snack time.
- Simple Joy: It's an easy way to elevate your dessert experience. Perfect, right?
Iced Tea
Though lemon crumb bars are delicious on their own, they're even better with a revitalizing glass of iced tea. The tartness of the bars pairs perfectly with the crisp, slightly sweet flavor of the tea, creating a balance that feels invigorating. I like to make my iced tea with a hint of lemon or mint, which complements the citrusy notes in the dessert. On a warm afternoon, sipping cool tea between bites of crumbly, zesty bars feels like a little luxury. It's a simple pairing, but it's one that makes the whole experience feel more special and complete.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Lime Instead of Lemon?
Just as swapping a butterfly for a moth shifts a garden's rhythm, I'd say lime can take lemon's place—its tang's sharper, zest brighter. I'd adjust sugar slightly but embrace the twist's vibrant spirit.
How Long Do They Stay Fresh?
They stay fresh for about 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. I'd refrigerate them if it's hot or humid, which can extend their freshness up to a week.
Can I Freeze Lemon Crumb Bars?
I'd recommend freezing them if you wanna store 'em longer. Just wrap each bar tightly in plastic and place in an airtight container. They'll keep for up to 3 months—thaw at room temp before eating.
Are These Bars Gluten-Free?
Imagine a field of golden wheat swaying in the breeze—these bars aren't a part of it. They're not gluten-free as they're made with flour. If you're avoiding gluten, you'll need a different recipe.
Can I Use Margarine Instead of Butter?
I'd swap margarine for butter, but I know it changes the flavor and texture. Margarine's softer, so I'd adjust how I mix it to avoid making the crumb too greasy or dense.
