If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that strikes the perfect balance between zesty citrus and rich buttery goodness, these Lemon Crumb Bars are exactly what you need. With their smooth lemon filling tucked between layers of golden crumble, these bars deliver sunshine in every bite. Whether it’s for a casual get-together, a family celebration, or just a treat-yourself moment, this recipe is guaranteed to become a new favorite.
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What Makes Lemon Crumb Bars So Addictive?
Citrus lovers, rejoice! These bars are a dream come true. They’re:
- Packed with vibrant lemon flavor
- Tender and crumbly with a creamy, custard-like center
- Made with easy-to-find ingredients
- Ideal for make-ahead desserts or freezing for later
- A beautiful treat to serve at any gathering
This recipe offers the best of both worlds: a buttery crust and topping paired with a smooth, lemony center that melts in your mouth.
Ingredients You’ll Need FOR Lemon Crumb Bars
The ingredients are broken down into two parts: the crumb mixture and the bright lemon filling.
For the Lemon Crumb Bars Layers:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Lemon Center:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- Zest from 2 lemons
- ½ cup lemon juice, freshly squeezed (roughly 2 to 3 lemons)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Let’s Bake Some Sunshine: Step-by-Step Instructions
Don’t worry if you’re new to baking—this recipe is simple, straightforward, and totally beginner-friendly!
Step 1: Get Your Pan Ready
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving extra on the sides so you can lift the bars out easily once they’ve cooled.
Step 2: Make the Crumb Mix
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the melted butter, flour, sugar, salt, and vanilla until you get a crumbly texture. Press about two-thirds of the mixture into the bottom of your prepared baking pan to form the base. Keep the rest for topping.
Step 3: Bake the Bottom Layer
Pop the crust into the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden. While that’s baking, whip up the filling.
Step 4: Mix the Lemon Filling
In a clean bowl, whisk the eggs, sugar, flour, lemon zest, and lemon juice until everything is smooth and well-blended.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake Again
Pour the lemon mixture over the warm base. Scatter the remaining crumb mixture evenly across the top to create a perfect golden topping.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake for another 25–30 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the center is just set.
Step 7: Cool, Chill, and Slice
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. For cleaner, firmer slices, place the cooled pan in the fridge for about an hour before cutting. Dust with powdered sugar for a lovely finishing touch.
How to Store Your Lemon Crumb Bars
In the fridge: Place the bars in a sealed container and refrigerate for up to five days to keep them fresh and flavorful.
In the freezer: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container. They’ll keep well for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Serving Ideas for Lemon Crumb Bars
These bars shine on their own, but they’re also amazing served with:
- A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream
- A dollop of whipped cream
- Fresh berries
- A tall glass of iced tea or a warm cup of coffee
They’re perfect for spring brunches, baby showers, picnics, or any occasion where a little citrus magic is needed.
Fun Variations to Try
Looking to add your personal flair to this classic treat? Here are a few ideas to customize your Lemon Crumb Bars:
- Berry-Lemon Twist: Gently press a handful of fresh blueberries or raspberries into the lemon layer before baking.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use your favorite gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
- Citrus Combo: Try swapping half of the lemon juice with orange or lime for a fun flavor twist.
Final Thoughts
These Lemon Crumb Bars are a delightful blend of tart lemon flavor and sweet, buttery crumble. Whether you’re making a batch for your family or taking them to a get-together, they’re bound to impress. The ease of preparation, combined with their fresh flavor and beautiful presentation, makes this recipe a go-to favorite you’ll return to time and time again.
PrintLemon Crumb Bars
These Lemon Crumb Bars feature a buttery, crumbly shortbread base and topping with a luscious, tangy lemon filling sandwiched in between. The perfect balance of tart and sweet, these easy-to-make bars are ideal for brunches, picnics, or anytime you crave a refreshing citrus dessert.
- Cook Time: ~2 hours 15 minutes
- Total Time: 38 minute
- Category: Desserts
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Crumb Dough (used for base and topping):
2 1/2 cups (310g) all-purpose flour
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1 tsp lemon zest
1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1 large egg
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
For the Lemon Filling:
1 (14 oz / 396g) can sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup (120ml) fresh lemon juice
1 tbsp lemon zest
2 large egg yolks
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
Make the crumb dough:
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and lemon zest.
Add cold butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
In a small bowl, beat the egg with vanilla extract and mix it into the crumb mixture. Stir until the dough begins to come together but still looks crumbly.
Assemble the base:
Press about two-thirds of the crumb dough into the prepared pan to form a firm, even base.
Make the lemon filling:
In a medium bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and egg yolks until smooth and thick.
Layer the filling:
Pour the lemon filling over the crust and spread evenly with a spatula.
Sprinkle the remaining crumb dough over the top of the filling.
Bake:
Bake for 30–35 minutes or until the top is lightly golden and the filling is just set.
Cool and chill:
Let the bars cool completely in the pan. Then refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours before slicing into squares.
Serve:
Slice into 16–20 bars and dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired.
Notes
For an extra punch of lemon flavor, add a few drops of lemon extract to the filling.
These bars keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days and freeze beautifully—store them in an airtight container with parchment between layers.
Make sure your butter is cold when mixing the dough—it helps create the crumbly texture.
You can substitute lime or orange for lemon for a citrus twist.
Keywords: Lemon Crumb Bars
