Lemon Crumb Bars
Lemon Crumb Bars are the perfect dessert for citrus lovers, offering a balance of sweet and tangy flavors with a buttery, crumbly texture. These bars feature a zesty lemon filling sandwiched between layers of a golden crumb crust. Ideal for springtime gatherings, potlucks, or as a refreshing treat any time of year, these bars are easy to make and impossible to resist.
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- 9x9-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Spatula
Ingredients
- **For the Crust and Crumble:**
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light brown sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter cold and cubed
- 1 egg lightly beaten
- **For the Lemon Filling:**
- 4 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice about 2-3 lemons
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
Instructions
- **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line the baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
- **Make the Crust and Crumble:** In a large bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the beaten egg until just combined.
- **Assemble the Crust:** Press half of the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even layer. Reserve the other half for the crumble topping.
- **Prepare the Lemon Filling:** In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, flour, lemon juice, and zest until smooth and well combined.
- **Pour and Top:** Pour the lemon filling over the crust. Sprinkle the reserved crumble mixture evenly over the top.
- **Bake:** Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the lemon filling is set. Let the bars cool completely in the pan.
- **Chill and Slice:** Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into squares or bars for clean cuts.