These delicious Lemon Crumble Bars feature a buttery, golden shortbread crust, a sweet and tangy lemon filling, and a soft, crunchy crumble topping. Perfect for dessert, afternoon tea, or sharing with family!
Ingredients
For the Crust & Crumble Topping:
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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½ cup granulated sugar
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½ cup unsalted butter, melted
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¼ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Lemon Filling:
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1 cup granulated sugar
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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2 large eggs
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½ cup fresh lemon juice
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1 tablespoon lemon zest
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¼ teaspoon baking powder
Instructions
1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Crust: In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until crumbly.
3. Bake the Base: Press about two-thirds of the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the baking dish. Bake for 12–15 minutes until lightly golden.
4. Make the Lemon Filling: Whisk together sugar, flour, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, and baking powder until smooth.
5. Add the Filling: Pour the lemon mixture evenly over the warm baked crust.
6. Add the Crumble: Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture evenly over the lemon filling.
7. Bake: Return to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, until the topping is lightly golden and the lemon filling is set.
8. Cool and Slice: Allow the bars to cool completely. Refrigerate for 1–2 hours for cleaner slices.
9. Serve: Cut into squares and enjoy these sweet, buttery, tangy lemon crumble bars!
Nutritional Information
Estimated per serving, based on 9 servings.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 285 kcal |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 40 g |
| Fat | 13 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 23 g |
| Sodium | 115 mg |
Helpful Tips
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Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
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Don’t overmix the crumble mixture; small crumbs create the perfect topping.
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Let the bars cool completely before cutting.
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Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
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Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an extra beautiful finish.
Questions & Answers
Q: Can I use bottled lemon juice?
A: Yes, but fresh lemon juice gives a brighter and fresher flavor.
Q: How do I know when the bars are done?
A: The crumble should be lightly golden, and the lemon filling should be set with only a slight jiggle.
Q: Can I freeze lemon crumble bars?
A: Yes! Freeze them in an airtight container for up to 2–3 months.
Q: Do these bars need refrigeration?
A: Yes. Because of the egg-based lemon filling, store them in the refrigerator.
Q: Can I make these bars ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Make them a day ahead and refrigerate overnight.
Q: Can I add coconut?
A: Yes! Add ¼ cup shredded coconut to the crumble mixture for extra texture and flavor.