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Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe

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3.8 from 15 reviews

These delightful Lemon Crumb Bars feature a buttery oat and flour crust topped with a creamy, tangy lemon filling and a golden crumb topping. Perfectly balanced with sweetened condensed milk and fresh lemon juice, they make a refreshing citrus dessert that's easy to prepare and ideal for sharing.

Ingredients

Crust and Crumble Topping

  • 156 grams (1 1/4 cups) all-purpose/plain flour
  • 100 grams (1 cup) old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 100 grams (1/2 cup) light brown sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 4 oz (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature and cubed

Filling

  • 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
  • 2 oz (1/4 cup) fresh squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 heaping tablespoon lemon zest

Instructions

  1. Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with foil and spray it with nonstick cooking spray to ensure easy removal of the bars later.
  2. Make the crust mixture: In a large bowl, combine the flour, rolled oats, light brown sugar, salt, baking soda, and cubed softened butter. Use a fork to mix until the ingredients resemble coarse breadcrumbs, ensuring the butter is evenly distributed.
  3. Form and bake the crust: Press half of the crumble mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan, creating an even layer. Bake this crust layer in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, keep the remaining crumble mixture aside for the topping.
  4. Prepare the lemon filling: In a medium bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix thoroughly until fully combined to form a creamy lemon filling.
  5. Assemble the bars: Remove the partially baked crust from the oven. Using a spatula, spread the lemon filling evenly over the crust. Then, sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture evenly on top of the lemon layer to create the crumb topping.
  6. Bake the assembled bars: Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are set.
  7. Cool and serve: Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing into squares. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Notes

  • For best results, use fresh lemon juice for a bright, vibrant flavor.
  • You can substitute old-fashioned rolled oats with quick oats, but texture will vary slightly.
  • Ensure butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
  • Use foil to line the pan for easy lifting and cleanup.
  • These bars can also be refrigerated for longer storage; bring to room temperature before serving for best texture.

Find it online: https://cookedbygrace.com/lemon-crumb-bars-recipe/