Why Make This Recipe
Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars are the perfect treat for anyone who loves a mix of tart and sweet. This recipe is easy to follow and uses simple ingredients you might already have in your kitchen. The combination of a crumbly top and a creamy lemon filling creates a delightful dessert that is sure to impress friends and family. They are great for picnics, potlucks, or just a cozy night at home!
How to Make Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats
- 10 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 tablespoons sour cream (or plain yogurt)
- 1 tablespoon finely grated lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In one bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, salt, and baking soda.
- In another bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract.
- Mix the wet ingredients into the dry mixture until everything is combined. Reserve 3/4 cup of this mixture for the topping.
- Press the remaining mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for 10 minutes.
- While the crust is baking, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, egg yolk, lemon juice, and zest in a separate bowl until smooth.
- Pour the lemon filling over the baked crust and sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture on top.
- Bake for an additional 17 to 20 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing them into squares.
How to Serve Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars
Serve these bars cold or at room temperature. They can be enjoyed as a dessert or a sweet snack at any time of the day. Consider adding a dusting of powdered sugar on top for an elegant touch. Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat!
How to Store Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just make sure to wrap them tightly before placing them in the freezer.
Tips to Make Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars
- Make sure to let the bars cool completely for cleaner cuts when slicing.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- You can substitute yogurt for sour cream if you prefer.
Variations
You can personalize this recipe by adding some blueberries or raspberries to the lemon filling for a fruity twist. Alternatively, try using lime juice and zest instead of lemon for a different citrus flavor.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sweetener instead of brown sugar?
Yes, you can use coconut sugar or a granulated sweetener of your choice.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
They should be golden brown on top and slightly firm to the touch.
Lemon Crumb Bars
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In one bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, salt, and baking soda.
- In another bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract.
- Mix the wet ingredients into the dry mixture until everything is combined. Reserve 3/4 cup of this mixture for the topping.
- Press the remaining mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for 10 minutes.
- While the crust is baking, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, egg yolk, lemon juice, and zest in a separate bowl until smooth.
- Pour the lemon filling over the baked crust and sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture on top.
- Bake for an additional 17 to 20 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing them into squares.