Lemon Crumb Bars
Ah, lemons! There’s something utterly magical about their vibrant zing, isn’t there? As I sat at my kitchen table, basking in the golden glow of a late afternoon sun, I found myself reminiscing about my grandmother’s kitchen. Her laughter was as warm as the sunbeams streaming through the window, and her lemon crumb bars were always the highlight of our teatime gatherings. Today, I want to share a piece of that sunshine with you through this delightful recipe.
These Lemon Crumb Bars are a perfect balance of tart and sweet, with a buttery crumb topping that pairs beautifully with the luscious lemon filling. Whether you’re planning a cozy afternoon tea or simply craving a citrusy treat, these bars are sure to delight. Let’s gather our ingredients and get started!
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – The foundation of our crumbly crust. Make sure to sift for the best texture.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar – Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the tartness of the lemon.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors and brings harmony to the dish.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted – The magical ingredient that binds our crust and crumb topping together, adding richness and moisture.
- 2 large eggs – These will give our bars a lovely, custard-like texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Yes, a second dose of sweetness for our luscious lemon filling.
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour – Helps thicken the filling, making it velvety and substantial.
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice – The star of the show! Freshly squeezed is best for that pure, zesty flavor.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest – A little zest goes a long way in intensifying the lemony goodness.
- Powdered sugar, for dusting – A light dusting adds a touch of elegance and a sweet finish.
Instructions
Let’s embark on this delightful baking journey together.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This moment always fills me with anticipation, as the kitchen begins to warm and the promise of deliciousness fills the air.
- Prepare your baking dish by lining an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper. I find this step makes it much easier to lift the bars out later, ensuring that perfect slice.
- Mix the crust ingredients. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. As you mix, imagine the satisfying crunch these crumbs will bring to your first bite.
- Press the mixture into the prepared pan. Use your fingertips or the back of a spoon to press it evenly, creating a firm base. This is the foundation of our delightful bars!
- Bake the crust for approximately 15-18 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden. The aroma of baking butter and sugar is like a warm hug wrapping around you. Let it cool slightly while you prepare the lemon filling.
- Whisk together the eggs, sugar, and flour for the filling. This is where the magic happens as the mixture transforms into a smooth, creamy custard.
Lemon Crumb Bars: A Zesty Delight from My Kitchen to Yours
Pro Tips for Perfect Lemon Crumb Bars
Creating the perfect Lemon Crumb Bars is truly an art, and I’m here to share a few tips to help you master it. First, always use fresh lemons. The zest and juice from fresh lemons will elevate the flavor beyond compare. Additionally, when making the crumb topping, ensure your butter is cold, as this helps create a delightfully crumbly texture.
Variations and Substitutions
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a handful of fresh blueberries or raspberries to the lemon filling for a burst of color and flavor. For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with an equal amount of almond flour or your favorite gluten-free blend. You can also experiment with lime or orange zest for a different citrus twist.
What to Serve with Lemon Crumb Bars
Lemon Crumb Bars pair beautifully with a cup of Earl Grey tea or a chilled glass of lemonade for an extra citrusy experience. For a more indulgent treat, serve with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Storage and Reheating Guidance
To keep your Lemon Crumb Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. If you prefer them warm, gently reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes, or until heated through.
FAQ
Can I make Lemon Crumb Bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars are perfect for making ahead. Prepare them a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully overnight.
Can I freeze Lemon Crumb Bars?
Yes, you can freeze Lemon Crumb Bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and store in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
What if I don’t have fresh lemons?
If fresh lemons aren’t available, bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch, but the flavor won’t be as vibrant. Try to source fresh lemons for the best results.
How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?
To keep the crust from getting soggy, ensure it is fully baked before adding the lemon filling. This creates a sturdy base that holds up well to the luscious lemon layer.
A Warm and Encouraging Final Note
As you embark on the journey of making these delightful Lemon Crumb Bars, remember that baking is a joyful expression of love and creativity. Embrace any little imperfections, as they are what make homemade treats so endearing. I’m cheering you on from my kitchen to yours, and I can’t wait for you to experience the joy these bars bring. Happy baking!
Lemon Crumb Bars
Description
These Lemon Crumb Bars are a delightful fusion of tangy lemon flavor and a buttery crumb crust. Perfect for dessert or an afternoon treat, they’re sure to impress your taste buds!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- For the Crust and Crumb Topping:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
- For the Lemon Filling:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon salt for the crust and crumb topping. Add the cold cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your hands to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press half of the crumb mixture firmly into the prepared pan to form the crust. Set the remaining aside for the topping.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until it starts to turn golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
- In another bowl, whisk together 1 cup granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons flour, and 1/4 teaspoon baking powder for the filling. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking to combine after each addition.
- Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and salt until fully incorporated.
- Pour the lemon filling over the slightly cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Sprinkle the reserved crumb topping evenly over the lemon filling.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the filling is set.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the pan and onto a cutting board.
- Dust with powdered sugar, if desired, before cutting into squares.
Notes
For an extra lemony punch, consider adding an additional tablespoon of lemon zest. These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
