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Lemon Crumb Bars

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 37 minutes
Total Time 52 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Crust and Crumb Topping:
  • 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour: This provides structure and a light tender crumb to the base and topping.
  • 1 ¼ cups old-fashioned rolled oats: Oats add a lovely texture a subtle nutty flavor, and a comforting heartiness to the crust and topping.
  • ½ teaspoon salt: Salt enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda: Baking soda helps the crust and topping to rise slightly creating a light and airy texture.
  • ½ cup granulated sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness and contributes to the overall structure of the crust and topping.
  • ½ cup packed light brown sugar: Brown sugar adds moisture a caramel-like flavor, and a chewy texture to the crust and topping.
  • ¾ cup unsalted butter melted: Melted butter provides richness, flavor, and helps bind the dry ingredients together. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the amount of salt in the recipe.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Vanilla extract enhances the other flavors and adds a touch of warmth and complexity.
  • For the Lemon Filling:
  • 1 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk: Sweetened condensed milk provides the sweetness richness, and creamy texture to the filling.
  • 2 tablespoons finely grated lemon zest: Lemon zest is essential for a potent lemon flavor; make sure to only use the yellow part of the peel and avoid the bitter white pith.
  • ½ cup fresh lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is essential for the best flavor; bottled juice can sometimes have a metallic taste.
  • 2 large egg yolks: Egg yolks add richness creaminess, and structure to the lemon filling.

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan and Preheat the Oven:
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the bars bake evenly and the crust achieves a golden-brown color. Grease an 8x8-inch baking pan with baking spray. This prevents the bars from sticking to the pan, making it easier to remove them after baking. You can also line the pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides, which will allow you to lift the bars out easily after they've cooled.
  • Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients for the Crust and Crumb Topping:
  • In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, salt, and baking soda. Whisk these dry ingredients together thoroughly to ensure even distribution. This prevents pockets of baking soda or salt, which could affect the taste and texture of the final product.
  • Step 3: Add Sugars and Wet Ingredients to the Dry Ingredients:
  • Stir in the granulated sugar and packed light brown sugar. Mix well to combine. Then, mix the melted butter and vanilla extract in a separate small bowl. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined. The mixture should resemble coarse crumbs. Be careful not to overmix, as this can develop the gluten in the flour and result in a tough crust.
  • Step 4: Press Half of the Crumble Mixture into the Pan and Bake:
  • Press half of the crumble mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Use your fingers or the back of a spoon to create an even, compact layer. This will form the base of the bars. Bake the crust for 15 minutes. This par-baking ensures that the crust is firm enough to support the lemon filling.
  • Step 5: Prepare the Lemon Filling:
  • While the crust is baking, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, lemon zest, lemon juice, and egg yolks in a medium bowl. Whisk until smooth and well combined. The lemon juice will react with the condensed milk, thickening the mixture slightly. The egg yolks add richness and help to set the filling during baking.
  • Step 6: Assemble and Bake the Bars:
  • Once the crust is done, carefully pour the lemon filling over it, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture evenly over the top of the filling. Bake for an additional 20–22 minutes, or until the topping is lightly golden and the filling is set. The edges of the bars should be slightly puffed and golden brown.
  • Step 7: Cool and Refrigerate:
  • Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate them until firm. Refrigerating the bars is crucial for setting the filling and making them easier to cut. For cleaner slices, chill the bars thoroughly or freeze them briefly before cutting to prevent the filling from oozing.
  • Step 8 (Optional): Add a White Chocolate Drizzle:
  • For an extra treat, melt white chocolate according to package instructions. Dip the bottom half of the frozen bars in the melted white chocolate. Place them on a wax paper-lined baking sheet and refrigerate until set. This adds a touch of sweetness and elegance to the bars.