Step-by-step instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Don’t forget to grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
Prepare the crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and powdered sugar. Cut the softened butter into the dry mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish to create a solid crust.
Bake the crust: Place the crust in the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden.
Make the filling: In another bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, eggs, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and baking powder until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Combine: Pour this lemony mixture evenly over the baked crust.
Bake again: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set.
Cool and dust: Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely. Before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar for that professional finish.
Best ways to enjoy it
These Lemon Crumb Bars are delicious on their own, but they shine even brighter when paired with a cup of tea or coffee. For an added touch, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Arrange them on a beautiful platter with fresh berries for a festive look!
How to store
Storing your Lemon Crumb Bars is simple. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are a few quick tips for creating the best Lemon Crumb Bars:
- Use fresh lemons for the juice and zest. Bottled lemon juice doesn’t have the same vibrant flavor.
- Let the bars cool completely before cutting them; this helps achieve clean edges.
- For a little extra flair, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before serving—it enhances the lemon flavor beautifully.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun variations to try:
- Coconut-Zested Lemon Bars: Add shredded coconut to the crust for a tropical touch.
- Berry Infusion: Fold in some fresh raspberries or blueberries into the lemon filling for a fruity surprise.
- Herb-Infused Lemon Bars: Infuse the lemon juice with herbs like rosemary or thyme for an unexpected flavor twist.
FAQ
What is the prep time for Lemon Crumb Bars?
The prep time is approximately 15-20 minutes, with baking time taking another 35-45 minutes.
Can I substitute any ingredients?
Absolutely! If you’re looking to make it gluten-free, use gluten-free flour. You can also substitute granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a different sweetness profile.
How do I ensure the bars are set properly?
Make sure to bake them until the filling is no longer jiggly in the center. It should have a slight firmness when you gently shake the dish.
With these Lemon Crumb Bars, you’re not just making a dessert; you’re crafting a little piece of love that will surely brighten your day!
