Lemon Crumb Bars: The Perfect Sweet and Tangy Dessert

If you love desserts that balance sweetness with a zesty kick, these Lemon Crumb Bars are for you. With a buttery crumb crust, a luscious lemon filling, and a golden, crispy topping, this recipe is irresistible. They’re easy to make, perfect for any occasion, and sure to be a hit with family and friends.

Why You’ll Love These Lemon Crumb Bars

• Tangy and sweet – The lemon curd filling pairs perfectly with the buttery crust.
• Easy to make – Simple ingredients and a straightforward method.
• Perfect for any occasion – Great for picnics, brunches, or just an afternoon treat.
• Make-ahead friendly – These bars taste even better the next day!

If you’re a fan of citrusy treats, you’ll also love my Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake—a must-try for lemon lovers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Crust and Topping:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup cold unsalted butter, diced
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Lemon Filling:

• 4 large eggs
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup fresh lemon juice
• Zest of 2 lemons

How to Make Lemon Crumb Bars

Step1: Prepare the Crust and Topping

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Reserve 1 ½ cups of the mixture for the topping. Press the remaining mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish.

Step2: Bake the Crust

4. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden.
5. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

Step3: Make the Lemon Filling

6. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, flour, lemon juice, and zest until smooth and well combined.
7. Pour the lemon filling over the partially baked crust, spreading it evenly.

Step4: Add the Crumb Topping

8. Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture evenly over the filling.
9. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is set.

Step5: Cooling and Serving

10. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
11. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to make slicing easier.
12. Cut into squares or rectangles and dust with powdered sugar before serving.

For another delicious, fruity dessert, try my Cherry Pie Bars—they’re just as easy and satisfying!

Tips for the Best Lemon Crumb Bars

• Use fresh lemons for the best flavor—bottled juice won’t have the same zing.
• Keep the butter cold to ensure a crisp and crumbly crust.
• Let the bars chill before cutting for cleaner slices and enhanced flavor.

Fun Variations to Try

Want to mix things up? Here are a few ways to put a twist on this recipe:

• Add berries – Sprinkle fresh raspberries or blueberries over the filling before baking.
• Go gluten-free – Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend.
• Make it vegan – Use vegan butter and an egg substitute like aquafaba.

How to Serve and Store Lemon Crumb Bars

Serving Suggestions

• Top with whipped cream for extra indulgence.
• Pair with a hot cup of tea or coffee for the perfect afternoon treat.
• Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a summer-friendly dessert.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freeze individual bars for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Nutritional Benefits of Lemon Crumb Bars

Lemon Crumb Bars may be a treat, but they also come with a few benefits:

• Lemons are packed with vitamin C and antioxidants.
• Eggs provide protein and a creamy texture to the filling.
• Butter adds richness and a satisfying crunch.

For another citrus-inspired dessert, try my Mini Pineapple Coconut Cheesecakes—a tropical twist on a classic treat!

Final Thoughts

These Lemon Crumb Bars are a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re baking them for a special gathering or just indulging in a midweek treat, they’re easy to make and absolutely delicious.

If you try this recipe, let me know how it turned out! Share your baking creations on Pinterest, and don’t forget to save this recipe for later. Happy baking!

For more dessert inspiration, explore our Gooey Raspberry White Chocolate Cookies, another favorite for sweet tooths everywhere! Happy baking!

Learn about the origins and timeless appeal of lemon bars   

Enjoy your delicious Lemon Crumb Bars, and if you give it a try and like it, we’d love to hear how it turned out—share your experience with us!

 

Print