Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars – Tangy, Sweet, and Buttery Dessert Bars

Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars are a bright, refreshing dessert with a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. With a buttery crumb base, luscious lemon filling, and a crisp crumb topping, these bars are the ultimate treat for dessert lovers, brunch gatherings, or sunny afternoon indulgences. Each bite offers a delightful combination of textures: the buttery base, smooth lemon curd-like layer, and crumbly top. Easy to make in just over an hour and perfect for slicing into 16 squares, these Lemon Crumb Bars are sure to become a family favorite and a crowd-pleasing addition to any dessert table.

Introduction

Lemon Crumb Bars deliver the perfect combination of sweet, tangy, and buttery flavors in every bite. The base and crumb topping are rich and tender, providing a soft yet slightly crisp texture that contrasts beautifully with the silky, tart lemon filling. This dessert is ideal for spring and summer, afternoon teas, brunches, or simply as a refreshing treat at home. With a straightforward preparation method, you can assemble and bake these bars with minimal fuss, then enjoy the vibrant citrus flavor that makes them irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Tangy & Sweet: Bright lemon flavor balanced with a buttery crust.
• Textural Delight: Crisp crumb topping and tender base with smooth filling.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead: Refrigerate before slicing for easy serving.
• Perfectly Portionable: Cut into 16 bars for easy sharing.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples with fresh lemon for flavor.

Ingredients Breakdown

Servings: 16

Crumb Base & Topping

• 2.5 cups all-purpose flour – forms buttery, tender crumbs
• 1 cup granulated sugar – sweetness throughout
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed – creates a flaky, rich texture
• 0.5 teaspoon baking powder – slight lift for crumbs
• 0.25 teaspoon salt – balances sweetness
• 1 large egg, beaten – binds crumbs

Lemon Filling

• 14 oz sweetened condensed milk – creamy, smooth base
• 0.5 cup fresh lemon juice – bright, tangy flavor
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest – enhances citrus aroma
• 1 large egg yolk – thickens filling and adds richness

Tools & Equipment Needed

• 9×9-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Large mixing bowl
• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Pastry blender or fork
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wire cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2.5 cups all-purpose flour, 1 cup granulated sugar, 0.5 teaspoon baking powder, and 0.25 teaspoon salt.
3. Cut 1 cup cold cubed butter into the flour mixture using a pastry blender or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in 1 beaten egg until the mixture is evenly moistened and remains crumbly.
5. Press approximately half of the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even base layer.
6. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together 14 oz sweetened condensed milk, 0.5 cup fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon lemon zest, and 1 large egg yolk until smooth and slightly thickened.
7. Pour the lemon filling over the base layer, spreading evenly to the edges.
8. Distribute the remaining crumb mixture evenly over the top of the lemon layer.
9. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden and the center is set.
10. Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into 16 squares.

Tips & Variations

• Extra Citrus: Add more lemon zest for a bolder flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Topping Variation: Sprinkle powdered sugar over cooled bars for a decorative finish.
• Mini Bars: Use a smaller pan to create bite-sized bars for parties.
• Make Ahead: Refrigerate for up to 3 days; the flavor intensifies over time.

Flavor Profile

Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars are sweet, tangy, and buttery. The base is rich and slightly crisp, the lemon filling is smooth and tart, and the crumb topping adds a delicate crunch. The combination of textures—crumbly, creamy, and slightly chewy—makes each bite satisfying. The fresh lemon juice and zest brighten the dessert, creating a refreshing citrus-forward flavor that balances the sweetness of the condensed milk and sugar.

Nutritional Overview (Per Serving)

• Calories: 280 kcal
• Protein: 4 g
• Carbs: 35 g
• Fat: 14 g
• Fiber: 1 g

Dietary Considerations: Vegetarian; contains dairy; contains gluten.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Prepare in Advance: Bake and refrigerate before slicing for neat squares.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Serving: Chill for at least 2 hours for clean, firm slices.

FAQs

Q: Can I use bottled lemon juice?
A: Fresh lemon juice is best for bright flavor, but bottled juice can work in a pinch.

Q: How do I get the crumb topping to stay intact?
A: Press the base firmly, then sprinkle the topping evenly without compacting it.

Q: Can I freeze these bars?
A: Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month; thaw in the fridge before serving.

Q: Can I use low-fat condensed milk?
A: Yes, though the filling may be slightly less rich and creamy.

Cooking Timeline

Step	Time
Prep Time	20 minutes
Cook Time	45 minutes
Chill Time	2 hours
Total Time	1 hour 5 minutes
Servings	16

Serving Suggestions

• Serve chilled for the cleanest slices.
• Garnish with additional lemon zest or a dusting of powdered sugar.
• Perfect for brunch, tea parties, or dessert tables.

Recipe Variations

1. Blueberry Lemon Crumb Bars: Add 1/2 cup fresh blueberries to the lemon filling before baking.
2. Coconut Lemon Crumb Bars: Sprinkle shredded coconut over the top crumb layer before baking.
3. Mini Bars: Use a smaller pan to make bite-sized squares.
4. Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

Ingredient Spotlight

• Lemon Juice & Zest: Provides bright citrus flavor that balances sweetness.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: Creates a smooth, creamy filling that sets beautifully.
• Butter: Key for the tender, crumbly texture of the base and topping.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Use cold butter for the crumb mixture to ensure a flaky texture.
• Chill baked bars before slicing for clean edges.
• Spread lemon filling evenly to avoid thin spots or bubbling.
• Use parchment paper for easy removal and slicing.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Refrigerator: Store in airtight container up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month.
• Serving: Chill thoroughly before slicing; cut into neat squares with a sharp knife.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	280 kcal
Protein	4 g
Carbs	35 g
Fat	14 g
Fiber	1 g

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian; contains dairy; contains gluten; tangy and sweet dessert.

Expanded Conclusion

Homemade Lemon Crumb Bars are a bright, buttery, and refreshing dessert that combines crisp crumbs with a smooth, tangy lemon filling. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are easy to make, visually appealing, and packed with flavor. Chill, slice, and enjoy the combination of sweet, tart, and buttery textures that make these bars a beloved treat for family gatherings, brunches, or casual indulgences. With a simple preparation method and clean, delicious flavor, these Lemon Crumb Bars are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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