2 Ingredient Lemon Bars

These 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars are the perfect treat for any occasion. With just two simple ingredients, you can create a dessert that’s bursting with zesty lemon flavor and a delightful gooey texture. Whether it’s a family gathering, a picnic, or just a sweet craving at home, these lemon bars will impress everyone. Their simplicity and bright taste make them a standout choice for any dessert lover.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only two ingredients, these lemon bars come together in no time, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings.
• Deliciously Tangy: The combination of lemon pie filling and angel food cake mix creates a uniquely tangy flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing.
• Versatile Dessert: These bars are great on their own or dressed up with powdered sugar, making them suitable for casual snacks or elegant parties.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Kids will love helping to mix the ingredients and enjoy eating these sweet treats!
• Perfect Texture: The airy texture from the angel food cake mix complements the rich lemon filling beautifully.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your essential tools to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish (9×13 inch)
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or spatula
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A quality baking dish ensures even cooking and helps achieve that lovely golden top.
• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl provides enough space to combine the ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk or spatula: These tools help to mix the batter smoothly while keeping the lumps minimal for that perfect texture.
• Wire rack: Using a wire rack allows the bars to cool evenly, preventing sogginess.

Ingredients

These bars deliver the ultimate citrus punch. They’re bursting with bright, tangy lemon taste in every gooey bite.

For the Bars

• 1 box angel food cake mix (I used Duncan Hines)
• 1 can (21 oz) lemon pie filling
• Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)

How to Make 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure to grease your 9×13 inch baking dish generously with cooking spray or butter so the bars don’t stick.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the angel food cake mix and lemon pie filling. Mix gently until just combined; it’s okay if there are some lumps!

Step 3: Bake the Bars

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly across the bottom. Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Look for a lightly golden top and check if a toothpick comes out mostly clean.

Step 4: Cool Completely

Once baked, remove from the oven and let your lemon bars cool completely on a wire rack. This will take about 1-2 hours but trust me—it’s worth it!

Step 5: Dust with Powdered Sugar (Optional)

After cooling, if you want an extra touch of sweetness, dust your bars with powdered sugar before slicing them into squares. Enjoy every tangy bite of these delightful lemon bars!

How to Serve 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars

These delightful 2 ingredient lemon bars are not just a treat on their own; they can be enhanced with various serving suggestions. Here are some creative ways to enjoy them.

With Fresh Berries

• Strawberries: Fresh strawberries pair beautifully with the tart lemon flavor, adding a pop of color and sweetness.
• Blueberries: A handful of blueberries on the side brings another layer of freshness that complements the lemon bars.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Homemade Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a creamy texture that balances the zingy lemon flavor.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Try infusing your whipped cream with vanilla or citrus zest for extra flavor.

Served à la Mode

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream goes perfectly with the tangy lemon bars.
• Lemon Sorbet: For an extra burst of lemon, serve your bars with a scoop of refreshing lemon sorbet.

Dusted with Powdered Sugar

• Simple Dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar enhances the presentation and adds a touch of sweetness.
• Decorative Stencils: Use stencils to create fun designs with powdered sugar for an elegant touch when serving.

Pin for later!

How to Perfect 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars

Achieving the perfect 2 ingredient lemon bars is all about technique and attention to detail. Keep these tips in mind for delicious results.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lemon pie filling can make a significant difference in taste. Always check expiration dates!
• Don’t overmix: Mixing too much can lead to tough bars. Stir until just combined for a lighter texture.
• Cool completely: Allowing the bars to cool fully ensures they set properly and makes slicing easier.
• Check baking time: Ovens vary, so start checking around the 25-minute mark to avoid overbaking.

Best Side Dishes for 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars

Pairing side dishes with your 2 ingredient lemon bars can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some complementary options.

1. Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits can add freshness and balance out the sweetness of the dessert.
2. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses like brie or goat cheese offers a savory contrast to the sweet and tangy flavors.
3. Mint Tea: A refreshing mint tea provides a cool drink option that pairs well with citrus desserts.
4. Pistachio Crumble: Crushed pistachios sprinkled on top can add crunch and nutty flavor that contrasts nicely with the softness of the bars.
5. Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt, granola, and berries create a creamy, crunchy dish that complements your lemon bars.
6. Chocolate Dipping Sauce: For those who love chocolate, a drizzle of chocolate sauce can add indulgence to every bite!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars can be simple, but small errors can affect the outcome. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense bars instead of fluffy ones. Stir gently until just combined for the best texture.
• Skipping the cooling time: Cutting into warm bars may result in a messy presentation. Allow them to cool completely for neat slices and better flavor.
• Not greasing the dish properly: If you forget to grease your baking dish, the bars may stick and break apart. Always use cooking spray or butter generously.
• Using expired ingredients: Old angel food cake mix or lemon pie filling can alter the taste and texture. Check expiration dates before use.
• Ignoring baking time: Baking too long or too short can affect the doneness. Keep an eye on the bars and do the toothpick test for accuracy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars

• Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container; they will last up to 3 months.

Reheating 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat bars for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one bar at a time on high for 15-20 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars.

Can I substitute the angel food cake mix?

Yes! You can try using a different type of cake mix, but it may alter the final texture.

How can I make my lemon bars more tangy?

Add a bit of fresh lemon juice or zest to enhance that zesty flavor.

Are these 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free angel food cake mix, these bars can be gluten-free!

What should I serve with my lemon bars?

These bars pair well with whipped cream or fresh berries for added sweetness and color.

How do I know when my lemon bars are done baking?

Look for a lightly golden top and use a toothpick; it should come out mostly clean when inserted into the center.

Final Thoughts

These 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars are not only easy to make but also deliver an incredible citrus flavor that everyone loves. Feel free to customize them with toppings like whipped cream or fresh fruit. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite dessert!