What ingredients do I need to make lemon creme crumb bars?

To make lemon creme crumb bars, you'll need basic baking ingredients including all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, unsalted butter, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, powdered sugar, baking powder, and salt. The crust and crumb topping are typically made from a mixture of flour, sugar, and cold butter, while the lemon filling requires fresh lemon juice and zest, eggs, sugar, and a bit of flour or cornstarch to thicken. Using fresh lemons is key for authentic flavor.

How do I make the lemon filling for lemon creme crumb bars?

To prepare the lemon filling, whisk together fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, eggs, sugar, and a pinch of salt in a bowl until smooth. Then, add a small amount of flour or cornstarch to help the filling set properly when baked. Pour the mixture over the partially baked crust before adding the crumb topping. Bake again until the filling is set but slightly jiggly in the center, which ensures a creamy and tangy texture once cooled.

Can lemon creme crumb bars be made ahead of time and stored?

Yes, lemon creme crumb bars can be made in advance and stored. Once baked and cooled completely, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the bars for up to 2 months—just thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving to maintain their texture and flavor.

What’s the best way to achieve a crumbly topping on lemon creme crumb bars?

To get a crumbly topping, use cold unsalted butter cut into small pieces and blend it with the flour and sugar until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Avoid over-mixing which can create a dough instead of crumbs. Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the lemon filling before baking to create a textured, golden-brown crust that adds a pleasant crunch and complements the smooth lemon layer underneath.

Are lemon creme crumb bars suitable for people with dietary restrictions like gluten intolerance?

Traditional lemon creme crumb bars use all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. However, you can make gluten-free versions by substituting the flour with a gluten-free baking blend that measures equally. Make sure the blend includes xanthan gum or another binder for structure. Also, check that other ingredients like baking powder or cornstarch are gluten-free. This adaptation will let people with gluten intolerance enjoy these bars without sacrificing taste or texture.

Lemon Creme Crumb Bars Recipe With Zesty Creamy Layers

Ingredients

– 1 1/4 cups rolled oats

– 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

– 1/2 teaspoon salt (heaping)

– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

– 1/2 cup granulated sugar

– 1/2 cup packed light-brown sugar

– 3/4 cup butter, melted

– 1 teaspoon vanilla

– 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk

– 1 tablespoon lemon zest

– 1/3 cup lemon juice

– 2 large egg yolks

– 1/2 teaspoon lemon extract

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Instructions

1-Add 1 teaspoon vanilla to 3/4 cup melted butter and mix into dry ingredients until moistened.

2-Press half of the mixture into the baking dish and bake for 15 minutes.

3-In another bowl, whisk 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk, 1 tablespoon lemon zest, 1/3 cup lemon juice, 2 large egg yolks, and 1/2 teaspoon lemon extract until blended.

4-Pour the lemon mixture over the crust, add the remaining crumbs, and bake for 23 to 26 minutes until golden.

5-Cool at room temperature, then chill for 30 minutes to 1 hour before cutting.

Notes

🍋 For a stronger lemon flavor, double the lemon zest and juice and omit lemon extract.
❄️ Allow bars to set overnight in the refrigerator for best texture.
🥶 Bars freeze well; cut before freezing and enjoy frozen or thawed.

Author: Brandi Oshea
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cooling & Chilling: 1 hour 30 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar