Description of this recipe: These Lemon Crumb Bars are a delightful combination of a buttery, oat-infused crumb base and topping, sandwiching a luscious, tangy lemon filling. They are the perfect balance of sweet and tart, with a satisfying textural contrast. This recipe is easy to follow, making it ideal for both beginner and experienced bakers.
Why you will love this recipe: You’ll adore these Lemon Crumb Bars because they are incredibly versatile. They are perfect for a sunny afternoon tea, a picnic treat, or a delightful dessert after dinner. The bright lemon flavor is incredibly refreshing, and the crumbly texture is simply irresistible. Moreover, the recipe is adaptable, allowing you to customize the sweetness and tartness to your liking. They are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser! They are also fairly simple to make, and use everyday ingredients that you probably already have on hand!
Introduction:
Lemon Crumb Bars are a classic treat that has been enjoyed for generations, and for good reason. They offer a comforting blend of flavors and textures that are hard to resist. This recipe is a twist on the traditional, incorporating old-fashioned rolled oats into the crumb mixture for added depth and a subtle nutty flavor. The result is a bar that is not only delicious but also boasts a delightful chewiness that complements the creamy lemon filling perfectly.
This recipe is designed to be approachable and easily adaptable to your preferences. We’ll walk you through each step, from preparing the buttery crumb mixture to creating the tangy lemon filling and achieving the perfect golden-brown topping. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, you’ll find this recipe straightforward and rewarding. The key to success lies in using fresh, high-quality ingredients and following the instructions carefully. Don’t be afraid to experiment and adjust the recipe to suit your taste. For example, if you prefer a sweeter bar, you can increase the amount of sugar in the filling. If you like a more pronounced lemon flavor, add a touch more lemon zest.
The beauty of these bars is that they can be enjoyed at any time of the year. In the summer, they are a refreshing treat that pairs perfectly with iced tea or lemonade. In the winter, the bright lemon flavor provides a welcome burst of sunshine. No matter the season, these Lemon Crumb Bars are sure to bring a smile to your face. They also freeze very well, so you can make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them whenever you have a craving.
These Lemon Crumb Bars are more than just a dessert; they’re an experience. The moment you bite into one, you’ll be transported to a sunny lemon grove, surrounded by the sweet aroma of citrus. The buttery crumb, the tangy filling, and the delicate sweetness create a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and let’s get baking! You’re about to create a treat that will be cherished by everyone who tries it.
Ingredients:
For the Crumb Base and Topping:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Forms the base structure of the bars, providing a tender crumb.
- ¾ cup old-fashioned rolled oats: Adds texture, a hearty flavor, and a slight chewiness to the crumb. Make sure to use old-fashioned rolled oats, and not instant oats.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances the overall flavor.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda: Provides a slight lift for a tender crumb.
- ¾ cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a golden-brown color.
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar: Contributes sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor, adding depth to the crumb.
- ¾ cup (1 ½ sticks) unsalted butter, melted: Brings richness, binds the crumble together, and creates a tender texture. Make sure to use unsalted butter so you can control the level of saltiness in the dish.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and enhances the other flavors in the crumb.
For the Lemon Filling:
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk: Creates a rich, creamy, and sweet base for the filling.
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest, from about 2 large lemons: Infuses a bright, aromatic citrus flavor.
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice, from about 2-3 large lemons: Provides the tangy, refreshing lemon flavor. Freshly squeezed juice is always superior in flavor to bottled.
- 2 large egg yolks: Adds thickness, richness, and a subtle custard-like texture to the filling.
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is ideal for baking the bars evenly and preventing the crumb from burning. Prepare an 8×8 inch baking pan with non-stick spray. Alternatively, you can line the pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal of the bars. This makes slicing and serving them much easier.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, old-fashioned rolled oats, salt, and baking soda. Whisk these dry ingredients together to ensure they are evenly distributed. This will help the baking soda react properly and prevent any pockets of saltiness.
Step 3: Add the granulated sugar and light brown sugar to the dry ingredients. Stir well until evenly mixed. This ensures that the sugars are properly incorporated and will caramelize evenly during baking.
Step 4: Pour the melted butter and vanilla extract into the dry ingredients. Mix well with a fork or your fingers until the mixture is evenly moistened and resembles coarse crumbs. Be careful not to overmix, as this can develop the gluten in the flour and result in a tough crumb. You want the mixture to be crumbly, not doughy.
Step 5: Press half of the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or your fingers to create an even layer. Pressing firmly will create a sturdy base for the filling and prevent it from seeping through.
Step 6: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. This par-baking step helps to set the crust and prevent it from becoming soggy when the filling is added. The crust should be lightly golden around the edges when it’s ready.
Step 7: While the crust is baking, prepare the lemon filling. In another bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, lemon zest, lemon juice, and egg yolks until smooth and well combined. The mixture should be creamy and pale yellow. Be sure to zest the lemons before you juice them!
Step 8: Once the crust is baked, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the lemon filling over it. Spread the filling evenly over the crust. Dot the remaining crumb mixture evenly over the top of the filling. This will create a beautiful, golden-brown topping that contrasts perfectly with the creamy lemon filling.
Step 9: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-22 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is set. The filling should be slightly jiggly in the center, but not liquid. The edges of the bars should be set and lightly browned.
Step 10: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set completely. Refrigerating them overnight is even better!
Step 11: For cleaner slices, cut the bars while they are cold or even slightly frozen. Use a sharp knife to slice the bars into squares or rectangles. Wiping the knife clean between slices will help to prevent the filling from sticking and creating a messy cut.
Step 12: For an indulgent twist, freeze the bars, dip the bottoms in melted white chocolate, and set them on wax paper to harden. This adds an extra layer of sweetness and richness that complements the tangy lemon flavor beautifully.
Final Step: Store the Lemon Crumb Bars in the refrigerator in an airtight container to keep them firm and fresh for up to 5 days.
COOKING Rating: Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
- Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Serve alongside a cup of coffee, tea, or lemonade.
- Cut into smaller squares for party appetizers.
Tips:
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor.
- Don’t overbake the bars; the filling should be slightly jiggly when you take them out of the oven.
- Cool the bars completely before slicing for cleaner cuts.
- For a more intense lemon flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon extract to the filling.
- For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 35-37 minutes Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes (includes chilling time)
Nutritional Information: (per serving, approximate) Note: Nutritional information can vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
Calories: 350 Protein: 4g Sodium: 150mg
Conclusion:
These Lemon Crumb Bars are a true delight, offering a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and crumbly textures. This recipe is easy to follow and adaptable to your personal preferences, making it a great choice for bakers of all skill levels. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing summer treat or a comforting dessert for any occasion, these bars are sure to be a hit. So, go ahead and bake a batch today and experience the sunshine in every bite!
Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
Q1: Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemon juice? A: While fresh lemon juice is always recommended for the best flavor, you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch. However, be aware that bottled lemon juice may not have the same bright, vibrant flavor as fresh lemon juice. If using bottled juice, look for a high-quality brand that is 100% lemon juice without any added preservatives or sweeteners. Also, you might need to adjust the amount of sugar in the filling, as bottled lemon juice can sometimes be more tart than fresh.
Q2: Can I substitute the light brown sugar with dark brown sugar? A: Yes, you can substitute light brown sugar with dark brown sugar. Dark brown sugar has a higher molasses content, which will result in a slightly richer and more intense flavor in the crumb topping. The bars will also be a bit darker in color. If you prefer a milder flavor, stick with light brown sugar.
Q3: Can I freeze these Lemon Crumb Bars? A: Absolutely! These Lemon Crumb Bars freeze very well. To freeze them, allow the bars to cool completely and cut them into individual squares. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
Q4: My crumb topping is too dry. What can I do? A: If your crumb topping is too dry, it means there isn’t enough moisture to bind the ingredients together. This can happen if your butter wasn’t completely melted or if your flour is particularly dry. To fix this, try adding a tablespoon or two of melted butter to the crumb mixture and mixing until it reaches the desired consistency. You can also add a teaspoon of milk or water if needed.
Q5: Can I add other flavors to the lemon filling? A: Yes, you can definitely customize the lemon filling with other flavors! Some great additions include:
- Blueberries: Adding a cup of fresh or frozen blueberries to the filling will create a delicious lemon-blueberry combination.
- Raspberries: Similarly, raspberries will add a tart and fruity twist to the filling.
- Coconut: Adding shredded coconut to the filling will create a tropical flavor profile.
- Lavender: A pinch of dried lavender will add a floral and aromatic note to the bars. Be careful not to add too much, as lavender can be overpowering. Just remember to adjust the baking time as needed, depending on the additions you make. And of course, have fun experimenting!
