Introduction
Get ready to enjoy the perfect balance of zesty lemon flavor and buttery crumbly goodness with these scrumptious Lemon Crumb Bars. With a combination of tangy lemon filling and a crunchy oat crumble topping, these bars are a delightful treat for any occasion.
Why Make This Recipe
If you’re a fan of tangy lemon desserts with a hint of sweetness and crunch, these Lemon Crumb Bars are a must-try. They are easy to make, require simple ingredients, and offer a burst of citrusy freshness in every bite.
How to Make Lemon Crumb Bars
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (80 g) quick-cooking oats
- 1½ cups (180 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (200 g) light brown sugar (packed)
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- ¾ cup (1½ sticks / 170 g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 large egg yolks
- ½ cup (115 g) freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 5 lemons)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt
Directions:
- Combine oats, flour, brown sugar, baking soda, and baking powder. Stir in melted butter; reserve 1 cup for topping.
- Press remaining oat mixture into a baking pan, bake until light golden.
- Whisk condensed milk, egg yolks, lemon juice, zest, and salt until smooth.
- Spread lemon mixture over the baked oat mixture.
- Crumble reserved oat mixture over the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until edges are golden brown.
- Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for 1 hour before serving. Best enjoyed at room temperature.
How to Serve Lemon Crumb Bars
Serve these delightful Lemon Crumb Bars either at room temperature or slightly warmed. Pair them with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful treat.
How to Store Lemon Crumb Bars
Store the Lemon Crumb Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the bars for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
Tips to Make Lemon Crumb Bars
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Ensure the lemon filling is spread evenly over the oat mixture.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to get clean slices.
Variation
For a twist, you can add a handful of shredded coconut to the oat crumble mixture for a tropical touch.
FAQs
- Can I use store-bought lemon juice instead of fresh lemon juice? Yes, you can substitute store-bought lemon juice, but the fresh flavor of squeezed lemons is recommended.
- Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter? It’s best to use unsalted butter in this recipe to control the salt level.
- Can I add other fruits to the lemon filling? Feel free to experiment with adding berries or other fruits to the lemon filling, but adjust the sugar levels accordingly.
