Hey y’all! If you’re craving a sweet treat that’s bursting with vibrant citrus flavor, these Lemon Crumb Bars are for you. With their luscious, tangy lemon filling and a golden, buttery crumb topping, they’re the perfect balance of sweet and tart. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, packing a picnic, or just need a cheerful pick-me-up, this easy recipe will brighten any occasion. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe
- Bursting with fresh lemon flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it beginner-friendly.
- Perfect for parties, picnics, or just an afternoon snack.
- Delicious served chilled or at room temperature.
- Freezes beautifully for make-ahead convenience.
Ingredients for Lemon Crumb Bars
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon finely grated lemon zest (from 1-2 lemons)
- 1/3 cup (80ml) fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for filling)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
How to Make Lemon Crumb Bars
Step 1: Prepare the Crumb Mixture
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. In a medium bowl, combine melted butter, 2 cups flour, 1/2 cup sugar, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix until coarse crumbs form.
Step 2: Create the Base
Press about two-thirds of the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Use the back of a spoon or your fingertips to pack it firmly. Bake for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden at the edges.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Filling
While the base bakes, whisk together eggs, remaining 1/2 cup sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons flour until smooth and slightly thickened.
Step 4: Assemble & Bake the Lemon Crumb Bars
Pour the lemon filling over the warm, baked base. Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture evenly over the top. Return to the oven and bake for 25-28 minutes, or until the filling is just set and the crumb topping is golden.
Step 5: Cool & Serve
Let the Lemon Crumb Bars cool completely in the pan. For clean slices, chill for at least 1 hour. Lift out using the parchment paper, cut into bars, and dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Notes on Making the Best Lemon Crumb Bars
- For extra tang, add an additional tablespoon of lemon zest to the filling.
- Chill the bars well before cutting for cleaner slices.
- Learn about different types of baking flour to choose the best one for your recipe.
Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe Variations
- Berry Lemon Bars: Add 1/2 cup fresh blueberries or raspberries on top of the lemon filling before adding the crumb topping.
- Gluten-Free Lemon Crumb Bars: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Coconut Lemon Bars: Mix 1/2 cup shredded coconut into the crumb mixture for a tropical twist.
Equipment Needed for Lemon Crumb Bars
- 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula or spoon
- Microplane or fine grater for zest
How to Store Lemon Crumb Bars (Shelf Life Included)
Store Lemon Crumb Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings for Lemon Crumb Bars
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Pair with hot tea, coffee, or a glass of iced lemonade for a refreshing treat.
- Pack them in a picnic basket for a sunny day outdoors!
Pro Tips for Perfect Lemon Crumb Bars
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best, brightest flavor—bottled juice just isn’t the same. Learn more about juicing lemons efficiently.
- Don’t overbake; the bars should be just set and slightly jiggly in the center when removed from the oven.
- For extra crunch, add a handful of chopped nuts to the crumb topping.
FAQ: Lemon Crumb Bars
- Can I double the recipe for a 9×13-inch pan?
- Yes, simply double all ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. You may need to increase the baking time by 5-7 minutes.
- Can I use bottled lemon juice?
- Fresh lemon juice is highly recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch—just note that the taste may be less vibrant. See more at Bon Appétit.
- Why did my crumb topping sink?
- If the crumb mixture is too fine or overmixed, it may sink into the filling. Leave some larger crumbs for a more defined topping.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 16 bars
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon zest
- 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions
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1Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
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2In a medium bowl, combine flour, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
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3Press two-thirds of the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust. Reserve the remaining crumb mixture for the topping.
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4In another bowl, whisk together eggs, remaining 1/4 cup sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and cornstarch until smooth.
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5Pour the lemon filling over the crust. Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture evenly over the top.
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6Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the filling is set. Cool completely in the pan before lifting out and cutting into bars. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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