Introduction
Welcome to a delightful adventure in baking! Today, we’re whipping up a batch of scrumptiously tangy Lemon Crumb Bars that will brighten your day with every bite. These bars feature a buttery, crumbly base topped with a luscious lemon filling that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tart. Ideal for gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy afternoon treat, they are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire!
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 16 bars
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon salt for the crust. Slowly pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture appears crumbly.
- Firmly press the crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden brown.
- While the crust is baking, prepare the lemon filling. In another bowl, whisk together 1 cup granulated sugar, eggs, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until smooth and creamy.
- Once the crust is ready, carefully pour the lemon filling over it, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is a lovely golden hue.
- Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.
- After they have cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar and cut into squares to serve. Enjoy your homemade lemony goodness!
Notes or Tips
For an extra pop of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the lemon filling. You can also experiment with different citrus zests like lime or orange for a unique twist. Don’t forget to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator — they taste great chilled!
Cooking Techniques
When making these crumb bars, the key is to ensure your crust is well-pressed into the pan to hold the filling without crumbling apart. Be cautious when baking the filling; you’ll want to avoid overbaking, as it can become rubbery. Keeping an eye on the color change is a simple way to know when it’s done!
FAQ
Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can substitute with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor, or gluten-free baking flour for a gluten-free version.
How do I know when my bars are done baking?
The filling should be set in the center and the top should have a light golden color. A toothpick inserted should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Conclusion
These Lemon Crumb Bars are bursting with sunshine and sweetness that are sure to delight your taste buds. Perfect for any occasion, they make a lovely sharing treat. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready for some delicious baking! You and your loved ones will savor every zesty bite.