Lemon Crumb Bars

These Lemon Crumb Bars are the perfect combination of tangy and sweet, featuring a creamy lemon filling nestled between a buttery brown sugar crust and a crumbly oat topping. With their soft, citrus-infused center and crisp golden topping, these bars make an ideal treat for any occasion.

Whether you’re looking for a refreshing summer dessert, a holiday bake sale item, or a make-ahead treat for gatherings, these bars are simple to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. The bright lemon flavor pairs perfectly with the hearty oat crumble, making them both satisfying and refreshing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – No fancy equipment or complicated steps required.
• Perfectly Balanced Flavor – The zesty lemon filling contrasts beautifully with the buttery crumble.
• Great for Any Occasion – Serve them at brunch, as an afternoon snack, or as a dessert.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – They store well and taste even better the next day.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8×8-inch baking pan – Ensures the bars bake evenly.
• Mixing bowls – One for dry ingredients and one for wet ingredients.
• Whisk – Helps blend the filling smoothly.
• Spatula – Ideal for spreading the filling evenly.
• Parchment paper or foil – Makes lifting the bars out of the pan easier.
• Cooling rack – Helps the bars cool properly before slicing.

Preparation Tips

• Use room temperature ingredients for the best texture.
• Line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
• For a stronger lemon flavor, add extra lemon zest.
• Chill the bars before slicing for cleaner cuts.

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Ingredients

For the Crust and Topping:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup old-fashioned oats
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 10 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For the Lemon Filling:

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 2 tablespoons sour cream (or plain yogurt)
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon finely grated lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat & Prepare the Pan

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with foil or parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
• Spray lightly with nonstick spray.

2. Make the Crust & Topping

• In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, salt, and baking soda.
• In a separate large bowl, whisk melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
• Stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until it forms a crumbly dough.

3. Form the Crust

• Set aside 3/4 cup of the mixture for the crumb topping.
• Press the remaining dough firmly and evenly into the prepared pan.
• Bake for 10 minutes until slightly golden.

4. Prepare the Lemon Filling

• In a bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, egg yolk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth.

5. Assemble & Bake

• Pour the lemon filling over the warm crust, spreading it evenly.
• Crumble the reserved dough over the top.
• Bake for 17-20 minutes, until the topping is golden and the filling is set.

6. Cool & Serve

• Place the pan on a wire rack and let the bars cool completely.
• Once cooled, use the parchment/foil overhang to lift out the bars.
• Slice into squares and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

1. Dust with Powdered Sugar

A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a delicate sweetness and a beautiful finish to the bars. It also balances the tangy lemon flavor.

2. Top with Whipped Cream

A dollop of homemade whipped cream adds a creamy contrast to the tart lemon filling. For extra flavor, mix in a little vanilla extract or lemon zest.

3. Pair with Fresh Berries

Serve the bars with fresh raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries for a bright and juicy contrast. The natural sweetness of the fruit complements the citrus notes.

4. Serve with Ice Cream

Vanilla or coconut ice cream pairs well with these bars, providing a cool and creamy texture that balances the tartness of the lemon.

5. Drizzle with White Chocolate

For an elegant touch, drizzle melted white chocolate over the bars. The subtle sweetness pairs beautifully with the zesty lemon filling.

6. Enjoy with a Cup of Tea or Coffee

These bars go perfectly with a warm cup of tea or coffee. Earl Grey, chamomile, or a light herbal tea enhances their refreshing lemon flavor.

7. Add a Crunchy Topping

For added texture, sprinkle chopped toasted almonds, pecans, or coconut flakes on top before baking. This creates an extra layer of crunch.

8. Make a Dessert Platter

Include the lemon crumb bars on a dessert platter alongside shortbread cookies, fruit tarts, and chocolate truffles for a well-rounded treat selection.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe

Even though this recipe is simple, a few common mistakes can affect the final texture and flavor. Here’s how to ensure perfect results every time.

1. Skipping the Pre-Bake for the Crust

Pre-baking the crust is essential for preventing a soggy base. It ensures a firm foundation that holds up under the lemon filling.

2. Using Bottled Lemon Juice

Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides the best flavor. Bottled juice often has preservatives that can affect the taste and texture.

3. Overmixing the Crust and Topping

Mix the crust ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough or dense texture instead of a tender, crumbly crust.

4. Not Letting the Bars Cool Completely

If you slice the bars while they’re still warm, the filling may not be fully set. Let them cool at room temperature and refrigerate for clean, even slices.

5. Using the Wrong Pan Size

An 8×8-inch pan is the best choice for this recipe. A larger pan will make the bars too thin, while a smaller one will affect the baking time and texture.

6. Ignoring the Parchment Paper Trick

Lining the pan with parchment paper and leaving an overhang makes it easier to lift the bars out for slicing. Without it, removing them can be difficult.

7. Not Storing Properly

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Leaving them out at room temperature for too long can affect their texture.

8. Forgetting to Taste-Test the Filling

Before pouring the filling over the crust, taste it to ensure the right balance of sweetness and tartness. Adjust with a bit more zest if needed.

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Side Dish Recommendations

If you’re serving these lemon crumb bars as part of a meal or dessert spread, consider pairing them with these complementary side dishes.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad

A mix of citrus fruits, berries, and mint enhances the bright flavors of the lemon bars.

2. Greek Yogurt with Honey

The creamy texture of Greek yogurt with a drizzle of honey pairs beautifully with the sweet and tangy bars.

3. Almond Biscotti

For a crunchy contrast, serve these bars with a side of almond biscotti and a cup of coffee.

4. Lemon Sorbet

If you love bold citrus flavors, pairing these bars with a scoop of lemon sorbet creates a refreshing combination.

5. Cheese Platter with Nuts and Crackers

A light cheese platter with mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese, along with almonds and honey, complements the bars’ flavors.

6. Chilled Herbal Tea or Lemonade

A glass of iced tea, lemonade, or a citrus-infused drink enhances the bright, refreshing notes of the dessert.

7. Chocolate-Covered Almonds

A handful of dark chocolate-covered almonds balances the tartness of the lemon with a rich, slightly bitter contrast.

8. Vanilla Pudding or Custard

A smooth and creamy vanilla pudding or custard serves as a delightful side to the crumbly bars.

Recipe Tips for the Best Lemon Crumb Bars

1. Use High-Quality Ingredients

The best flavor comes from fresh, high-quality ingredients. Use freshly squeezed lemon juice instead of bottled, and opt for pure vanilla extract for a natural taste.

2. Adjust the Sweetness

If you prefer a more tart lemon flavor, reduce the brown sugar slightly in the crust or add an extra ½ tablespoon of lemon zest to the filling.

3. Let the Bars Fully Cool Before Slicing

For the cleanest cuts, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before removing them. Chilling them in the refrigerator for at least one hour makes slicing easier.

4. Prevent a Soggy Crust

Always pre-bake the crust for 10 minutes before adding the filling. This ensures a firm, buttery base that won’t get too soft from the lemon mixture.

5. Make a Thicker Crust

For those who love extra crunch, increase the crust and topping ingredients by 50% and bake for an extra 2-3 minutes before adding the filling.

6. Enhance the Texture

For a crispier topping, bake for an extra 3-5 minutes, watching carefully to prevent over-browning.

7. Use the Right Baking Pan

An 8×8-inch pan is ideal for this recipe. Using a larger pan will make the bars too thin, while a smaller one may result in uneven baking.

8. Make Them Gluten-Free

Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, and ensure the oats are certified gluten-free for a safe alternative.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing in the Refrigerator

• Place the bars in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Keep layers separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Instructions

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Store for up to 3 months.
• To thaw, transfer the bars to the refrigerator and let them sit for a few hours before serving.

Reheating or Serving Chilled

• These bars taste best cold or at room temperature.
• If you prefer a slightly warm texture, microwave a bar for 5-10 seconds before serving.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Old-Fashioned Oats?

Yes, but the texture may be slightly softer. Old-fashioned oats provide a heartier crumb.

2. Can I Make These Without Sweetened Condensed Milk?

Sweetened condensed milk is essential for the creamy filling. Substituting it may change the consistency and sweetness.

3. What Can I Use Instead of Sour Cream?

Plain Greek yogurt works as a great substitute for sour cream, adding a similar tangy richness.

4. How Can I Make the Bars More Lemony?

Increase the lemon zest to 2 tablespoons and add a few drops of lemon extract to intensify the citrus flavor.

5. Can I Double the Recipe?

Yes. Use a 9×13-inch baking pan and double all the ingredients. Bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, watching closely to avoid overbaking.

6. Why Did My Crust Turn Out Too Hard?

This can happen if the crust is overmixed or pressed too firmly into the pan. Mix just until combined and press lightly for a tender, crumbly texture.

7. Can I Use Lime Instead of Lemon?

Absolutely. Swap the lemon juice and zest for lime to create lime crumb bars with a tropical twist.

8. How Do I Prevent the Filling from Curdling?

To prevent curdling, make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing and bake at the correct temperature without overbaking.

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Conclusion

These Lemon Crumb Bars are a simple yet impressive dessert that balances sweet and tangy flavors with a buttery oat crumble. Whether you serve them fresh, chilled, or with a side of fruit and whipped cream, they are sure to be a hit.

By following these tips, avoiding common mistakes, and properly storing the bars, you can enjoy their bright, citrusy flavor for days. Whether you make them for a family gathering, a bake sale, or just to satisfy a lemon craving, these bars are a delightful treat for any occasion.