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Stack of zesty lemon crumble bars with a golden crumb topping, creamy lemon filling, and a buttery crust, served on a rustic ceramic plate.

Zesty Lemon Crumble Bars


  • Author: Chef Clara
  • Total Time: 40 minutes (plus chilling)
  • Yield: 9 bars 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These bright and tangy lemon bars feature a buttery shortbread base, a luscious lemon curd center, and a golden crumble topping — perfect for spring gatherings or a refreshing sweet treat anytime.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 23 lemons)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 2 large egg yolks

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, mix flour, oats, sugar, and salt. Stir in melted butter and vanilla extract until crumbly.
  3. Press 2/3 of the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
  4. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove from oven and let cool slightly.
  5. In another bowl, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, sweetened condensed milk, and egg yolks until smooth and creamy.
  6. Pour the lemon filling over the cooled crust and spread evenly.
  7. Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture on top of the lemon layer.
  8. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the top is lightly golden and the center is set.
  9. Allow to cool completely in the pan, then chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour before slicing.

Notes

  • Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for best flavor.
  • For extra texture, add chopped nuts to the crumble topping.
  • Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Dust with powdered sugar before serving for a classic look.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bar
  • Calories: 310 kcal
  • Sugar: 22 g
  • Sodium: 90 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 65 mg