Lemon Crumb Bars are a delightful dessert that balances tangy lemon flavor with a buttery crumb topping, creating a treat that’s irresistible year-round. These bars are not just visually appealing with their golden crust; they offer a refreshing zing that makes them a perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying a sunny day or hosting a gathering, these bars will leave everyone craving more.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Crumb Bars

There are many reasons why these Lemon Crumb Bars are a favorite. First, they’re incredibly easy to make, perfect for those who want a quick dessert without the fuss. The combination of flavors is simply divine—tart lemon juice mixed with creamy sweetness creates a refreshing experience. Additionally, they are versatile and can be served on various occasions, from summer picnics to holiday parties. They can be enjoyed as Lemon Squares or even as Lemon Dessert Bars. Plus, they lend themselves well to variations, allowing you to customize them with ingredients like cream cheese or even a gluten-free option. These bars are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth!

Ingredients for Lemon Crumb Bars

Gather these items:

2 ⅓ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup granulated sugar
½ cup light brown sugar firmly packed
¾ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon baking powder
12 Tablespoons unsalted butter melted and cooled until no longer hot to the touch
1 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk (do not use evaporated milk)
4 large egg yolks
2 Tablespoons heavy cream
⅛ teaspoon salt
⅔ cup lemon juice fresh preferred

How to Make Lemon Crumb Bars Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
Step 2: Combine the dry crust ingredients in a large bowl – flour, both sugars, salt, and baking powder – whisking until well incorporated.
Step 3: Pour the melted and cooled butter into the dry mixture and stir with a fork until evenly moistened and a crumbly dough forms.
Step 4: Transfer about two-thirds of the crumb mixture to your prepared baking dish and firmly press it into an even layer using the bottom of a measuring cup. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges just begin to turn golden.
Step 5: While the crust bakes, make the filling by whisking together the sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, heavy cream, and salt until smooth. Gradually whisk in the lemon juice.
Step 6: Pour the lemon filling over the hot crust as soon as it comes out of the oven. Gently sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture evenly over the top.
Step 7: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, until the filling is set and the crumb topping turns a beautiful golden brown.
Step 8: Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Lemon Crumb Bars

Keep these in mind:

Make sure your butter is cooled to avoid cooking the egg yolks when combined with the filling.
For added flavor, consider mixing in a bit of lemon zest into the filling.
Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor; bottled juice lacks the brightness of fresh.
These bars can be enjoyed as Lemon Shortbread Bars by adding a shortbread layer instead of a crumb topping.

Best Ways to Serve Lemon Crumb Bars

These bars are best served chilled, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. You can dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant touch or serve alongside fresh berries for a refreshing accompaniment. They also pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. If you’re feeling adventurous, try drizzling some lemon glaze over the top for extra sweetness!

How to Store and Reheat Lemon Crumb Bars

To store your Lemon Crumb Bars, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator where they can last for up to a week. If you plan to enjoy them later, these bars can also be frozen. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. To reheat, let them thaw in the fridge overnight, then serve cold or at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lemon Crumb Bars

What’s the secret to perfect Lemon Crumb Bars?

The secret lies in the balance of ingredients. Ensure you use fresh lemon juice for a bright flavor and follow the baking times closely for a perfectly set filling. Learn more about baking tips.

Can I make Lemon Crumb Bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars are great for making ahead of time. In fact, they taste even better after a day in the fridge as the flavors develop. Just be sure to cover them well to maintain freshness.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Lemon Crumb Bars?

To avoid mistakes, make sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Avoid overbaking the crust, as it can become too hard. Lastly, let the bars cool completely before cutting for clean slices.

Variations of Lemon Crumb Bars You Can Try

There are several delicious variations you can experiment with! For a creamier texture, try adding cream cheese into the filling for Lemon Crumb Bars with cream cheese. If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. You can also make Lemon Cookie Bars by adjusting the ratios slightly to achieve a cookie-like texture. For a unique twist, consider adding a berry layer to make Lemon Dessert Bars with mixed fruits.

For more delicious dessert ideas, check out Cranberry Orange Pancakes or Gingerbread Cookies with Maple Glaze.

Irresistible Lemon Crumb Bars You’ll Adore Year-Round

Author: basmer
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 16 bars 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Irresistibly Tangy Lemon Crumb Bars You’ll Crave Year-Round

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
Combine the dry crust ingredients in a large bowl – flour, both sugars, salt, and baking powder – whisking until well incorporated.
Pour the melted and cooled butter into the dry mixture and stir with a fork until evenly moistened and a crumbly dough forms.
Transfer about two-thirds of the crumb mixture to your prepared baking dish and firmly press it into an even layer using the bottom of a measuring cup. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges just begin to turn golden.
While the crust bakes, make the filling by whisking together the sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, heavy cream, and salt until smooth. Gradually whisk in the lemon juice.
Pour the lemon filling over the hot crust as soon as it comes out of the oven. Gently sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture evenly over the top.
Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, until the filling is set and the crumb topping turns a beautiful golden brown.
Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting.