Lemon Crumb Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Balanced Flavors: The combination of sweet and tart elements creates a harmonious taste.​
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for parties, picnics, or a simple dessert at home.​
• Make Ahead: These bars can be prepared in advance, making them convenient for busy schedules.​

Ingredients

Crust and Crumb Topping:

• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted​
• 1/2 cup white sugar​
• 1/2 cup firmly packed light brown sugar​
• 3/4 teaspoon salt​
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract​
• 2 cups all-purpose flour​
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder​

Filling:

• 3 large eggs, at room temperature​
• 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons white sugar​
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch​
• 2 tablespoons freshly grated lemon zest​
• 1 pinch salt
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled​
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice​

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 9×9-inch square pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on all sides for easy removal.​
2. Prepare the Crust and Crumb Topping: In a bowl, mix together the melted butter, white sugar, brown sugar, salt, and vanilla extract until well combined. Add the flour and baking powder, mixing until the dough comes together in large clumps.​
3. Form the Crust: Measure out a loosely packed 1 3/4 cups of the crumb mixture and press it firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Reserve the remaining crumbs for the topping.​
4. Pre-Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 10 to 15 minutes, until it begins to turn golden brown.​
5. Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, cornstarch, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Add the melted butter and lemon juice, whisking until fully incorporated.​
6. Assemble the Bars: Pour the lemon filling evenly over the pre-baked crust.​
7. Add the Crumb Topping: Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture evenly over the top of the lemon filling.​
8. Bake: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20 to 25 minutes, until the topping is golden brown.​
9. Cool and Serve: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack, about 30 minutes. Once cooled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang, cut into squares, and serve.​

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields 16 servings.​
• Preparation Time: Approximately 15 minutes.​
• Cooking Time: Approximately 45 minutes.​
• Total Time: Around 1 hour and 40 minutes.​

Variations

• Fruit Additions: Add fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries to the filling for a fruity twist.​
• Nuts: Incorporate chopped nuts such as almonds or pecans into the crumb topping for added texture.​
• Coconut: Mix shredded coconut into the crust for a tropical flavor.​

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.​
• Refrigeration: For longer storage, refrigerate the bars for up to 1 week.​
• Freezing: Freeze the bars in a single layer, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.​

FAQs

1. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of freshly squeezed?

Freshly squeezed lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used as a substitute if necessary.​

2. How can I prevent the crust from becoming soggy?

Pre-baking the crust before adding the filling helps to create a barrier, preventing it from becoming soggy.​

3. Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make the bars gluten-free.​

4. How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The bars are done when the topping is golden brown and the filling is set. You can gently shake the pan; if the filling doesn’t jiggle, it’s ready.​

5. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake in a larger pan, adjusting the baking time as needed.​

6. How do I cut the bars neatly?

For clean cuts, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water, wiping it clean between cuts.​

7. Can I add a glaze on top?

Yes, a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice can be drizzled over the cooled bars for extra

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