Lemon Crumb Bars
Delight in these quick and easy Lemon Crumb Bars that provide a zesty, sweet treat perfect for busy evenings, guaranteed to please picky eaters.
Ingredients
Essentials
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour This forms the base of our crust and gives structure to the bars.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar Adds sweetness and helps achieve that crumbly texture.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened It’s essential for richness in the crust.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt Balances the sweetness beautifully.
- 1 cup granulated sugar Needed for that sweet, zesty lemon filling.
- 2 large eggs Help set the filling and give it structure.
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice Brightens flavor and adds that signature tang.
- Zest of 1 lemon Intensifies the lemon flavor in the bars.
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder Aids in giving the filling a light texture.
Optional Add-ons
- Lemon zest sugar Combine your sugar with lemon zest for a fragrant topping.
- Berries Sprinkling in blueberries or raspberries can add a nice fruitiness.
- Powdered sugar for dusting A light sprinkle on top can make these bars feel extra special.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Then, cut in the softened butter until the mixture becomes crumbly.
- Gently press the crumbly mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Bake it for about 15 minutes or until it’s lightly golden.
Filling Preparation
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, and baking powder until smooth.
- Pour the lemon filling over the pre-baked crust, ensuring an even layer.
Baking
- Place it back in the oven for an additional 20-25 minutes until set. The edges should look firm and the center may have a slight jiggle.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares for serving.
Notes
Avoid skipping the baking time for best results. Letting the bars cool completely helps achieve cleaner cuts. Measure ingredients accurately for perfect texture.