Why Make This Recipe
Lemon Crumb Bars are a delightful treat that brings a burst of citrus flavor with every bite. These bars are not only easy to make, but they also provide a perfect balance of tanginess and sweetness. Whether you are looking for a snack, a dessert for a gathering, or just something special for yourself, these bars are a wonderful choice. Their crumbly crust and smooth lemon filling make them irresistible.
How to Make Lemon Crumb Bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for filling)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (for filling)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix together flour, powdered sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Cut in the softened butter until the mixture resembles crumbs.
- Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 15 minutes.
- In another bowl, whisk together egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
- Pour the lemon filling over the baked crust.
- Bake for an additional 20 minutes.
- Allow to cool completely before slicing into bars and serving.
How to Serve Lemon Crumb Bars
Lemon Crumb Bars are best served chilled or at room temperature. You can dust them with a little powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and presentation. They are perfect for picnics, parties, or just as a treat with your afternoon tea.
How to Store Lemon Crumb Bars
To store your Lemon Crumb Bars, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container.
Tips to Make Lemon Crumb Bars
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor.
- Make sure the butter is softened, as this helps create a better crumb texture.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing to avoid messy cuts.
- You can add a bit more lemon zest if you prefer a stronger lemon flavor.
Variation
If you want to change things up, consider adding some poppy seeds to the filling for a nice texture. You can also top the bars with whipped cream or serve them with a side of fresh berries for a refreshing contrast.
FAQs
1. Can I use bottled lemon juice?
While fresh lemon juice is preferred for the best flavor, you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch.
2. Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
3. How thick should the crust be?
The crust should be evenly pressed down to about 1/4 inch thick, allowing enough space for the lemon filling to rise during baking.

Lemon Crumb Bars
Delightful lemon bars with a crumbly crust and smooth lemon filling, perfect as a snack or dessert.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for filling)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (for filling)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix together flour, powdered sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Cut in the softened butter until the mixture resembles crumbs.
- Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 15 minutes.
- In another bowl, whisk together egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
- Pour the lemon filling over the baked crust.
- Bake for an additional 20 minutes.
- Allow to cool completely before slicing into bars and serving.
Notes
Best served chilled or at room temperature. Dust with powdered sugar for added sweetness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: lemon bars, dessert, snack, citrus treat, easy recipe




