These tangy and creamy Lemon Crumb Bars feature a buttery crust, zesty lemon filling, and crumbly topping. They’re the perfect refreshing dessert for any occasion! The balance of sweet and tart flavors makes them irresistible, and their easy preparation makes them a go-to treat for gatherings, holidays, or an everyday indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect Balance of Flavors – The sweet crust and crumble complement the bright and tangy lemon filling beautifully.
- Easy to Make – Simple steps and common ingredients make this a great recipe for both beginners and experienced bakers.
- Great for Any Occasion – These bars are ideal for potlucks, parties, holidays, or a casual afternoon treat.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – They taste even better after chilling, making them a great dessert to prepare in advance.
- Soft, Creamy, and Crumbly – A combination of textures that makes every bite satisfying and delicious.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Crust:
2 ⅓ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup granulated sugar
½ cup light brown sugar, packed
¾ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon baking powder
12 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled
For the Lemon Filling:
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
4 large egg yolks, room temperature
2 tablespoons heavy cream
⅛ teaspoon salt
⅔ cup fresh lemon juice (about 4-5 lemons)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, salt, and baking powder. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture becomes crumbly.
- Press ⅔ of the crumb mixture firmly into the prepared baking pan to form the crust. Bake for 15 minutes.
- While the crust is baking, prepare the filling by whisking together the sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, heavy cream, and salt in a large bowl. Gradually add the fresh lemon juice, whisking until smooth.
- Once the crust is baked, pour the lemon filling over the hot crust. Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture evenly over the top.
- Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is set.
- Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before slicing into 12 squares and serving.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 12 bars
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Cooling Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 45 minutes
Variations
- Lime Crumb Bars – Swap lemon juice for lime juice for a tropical twist.
- Orange Lemon Bars – Use half lemon juice and half orange juice for a citrusy blend.
- Gluten-Free Version – Substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
- Extra Crunch – Add chopped nuts (like almonds or pecans) to the crumb topping for extra texture.
- Coconut Twist – Stir shredded coconut into the crust mixture for a hint of coconut flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
- Serving Tip: These bars taste best when chilled but can be enjoyed slightly warm for a softer texture.
FAQs
How do I know when the lemon bars are done baking?
The filling should be set but slightly jiggly in the center, and the crumb topping should be golden brown.
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Fresh lemon juice is best for flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes! Use a 9×13-inch pan and adjust the baking time slightly.
What if my crumb topping sinks into the filling?
Ensure your filling is thick before adding the crumb topping, and don’t press it down.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! They taste even better the next day after chilling.
Why do my bars seem too soft?
They need enough chilling time to set properly—at least 4 hours in the fridge.
Can I use a different type of citrus?
Yes! Lime, orange, or even grapefruit juice can be used for a variation.
How do I get clean slices?
Use a sharp knife, wipe it clean between cuts, and chill the bars before slicing.
Do I need to grease the pan?
No, parchment paper is enough for easy removal.
Can I add vanilla extract to the filling?
Yes! A teaspoon of vanilla extract can enhance the flavor.
Conclusion
Lemon Crumb Bars are a delightful treat that combines a buttery crust, creamy lemon filling, and a crumbly topping. Perfect for any occasion, these bars offer a refreshing citrus flavor with the right balance of sweetness and tang. Whether you’re making them for a party or just to satisfy a lemon craving, they’re sure to become a favorite in your dessert lineup.
