A Sweet Treat with a Zesty Twist
For dessert lovers and home bakers, there’s nothing quite like the combination of sweet and tart flavors to brighten up your day. Enter Lemon Crumb Bars, a delightful treat that brings together a buttery crumb topping and a luscious lemon filling.
These bars are perfect whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a weekend baking project, or simply craving a midday pick-me-up.
Below, we’ll guide you step-by-step on how to bake the most irresistible Lemon Crumb Bars that are sure to leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Before we jump into the process, here’s why Lemon Crumb Bars deserve a spot in your recipe arsenal:
- Zesty and Sweet – The tangy lemon filling perfectly balances the buttery, crumbly layers.
- Easy to Make – With simple, pantry-friendly ingredients, you don’t need to be a professional baker to nail this recipe.
- Great for Any Occasion – Whether it’s dessert for a picnic or a cozy night in, these bars are crowd-pleasers.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – These bars stay fresh for days and can even be frozen for emergencies (read: sudden sweet cravings).
Now that you’re tempted (and probably hungry), let's get baking!
Ingredients for Lemon Crumb Bars
You’ll need two sets of ingredients for this recipe—the crumb base and topping and the lemon filling.
For the Crumb Layer
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Lemon Filling
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 1/3 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 3–4 medium lemons)
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest (optional but highly recommended!)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Whenever possible, use fresh lemons for the best flavor. Bottle lemon juice doesn’t quite pack the same punch.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Bake Lemon Crumb Bars
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, letting the edges overhang slightly. This will help you lift the bars out easily after baking.
Step 2: Make the Crumb Mixture
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Pro Tip: Don’t overmix! The crumbly texture is key to achieving that signature “crunch” when baked.
Step 3: Create the Base Layer
Press two-thirds of the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Use the back of a spoon or your hands to ensure a smooth, compact layer. Bake this layer for 10–12 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 4: Whisk the Lemon Filling
While the base is cooling, it’s time to prepare the lemon filling.
- Whisk the eggs and granulated sugar in a medium bowl until smooth and combined.
- Add lemon juice and zest, then whisk in the flour until no lumps remain. The filling should be a smooth, liquid consistency.
Step 5: Assemble the Bars
Pour the lemon filling over the warm crust, spreading it evenly. Then, sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture evenly on top. The crumbs should cover most of the filling but leave a few small patches exposed for a rustic look.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Bake for 22–25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the lemon filling is set. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are firm, and the center jiggles slightly when gently shaken.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Allow the Lemon Crumb Bars to cool in the pan for at least 2 hours to fully set. Once cool, lift them out using the parchment paper overhang and cut into squares or rectangles.
- Pro Tip: For clean slices, chill the bars in the fridge for 30 minutes and use a sharp knife dipped in warm water.
Tips for Perfect Lemon Crumb Bars
- Double the Zest: Lemon flavor lovers can add an extra tablespoon of zest for an even brighter taste.
- Don’t Skip the Chill Time: Even though it’s tempting to dig in, allowing the bars to cool completely ensures the filling sets properly.
- Get Creative with Toppings: A dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of white chocolate takes these bars to the next level.
How to Store Lemon Crumb Bars
These bars are best stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- At Room Temperature: Store for up to 2 days in a cool area.
- Refrigerated: Can last up to a week in the fridge.
- Freezer-Friendly: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Why Lemon Crumb Bars Are Perfect for Sharing
Aside from being outrageously delicious, these bars are easy to slice, pack, and transport—ideal for sharing at potlucks, picnics, or office coffee breaks. Just one bite, and they’ll have everyone singing your baking praises!
Bring Sunshine to Your Dessert Table
Lemon Crumb Bars are proof that you don’t need complicated techniques or rare ingredients to bake something truly special. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
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