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Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe

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4.4 from 99 reviews

These Lemon Crumb Bars feature a buttery crumb crust topped with a tangy and creamy lemon filling made from sweetened condensed milk and fresh lemon juice. Perfectly balanced between sweet and tart, these bars are a delightful treat for any occasion, combining a crisp base with a smooth and zesty topping.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 2 ⅓ cups (291 g) all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
  • ½ cup (100 g) light brown sugar, firmly packed
  • ¾ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon baking powder
  • 12 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled until no longer hot to the touch

Lemon Filling

  • 1 14 oz (396 g) can sweetened condensed milk (do not use evaporated milk)
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream
  • ⅛ teaspoon salt
  • ⅔ cup (157 ml) fresh lemon juice, preferably fresh

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crust: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, salt, and baking powder. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the dry ingredients.
  2. Add the butter: Pour the melted and cooled unsalted butter into the dry ingredients. Use a spatula or your hands to mix until a crumbly dough forms, making sure all the flour is moistened.
  3. Press crust into baking dish: Transfer the crumbly dough into a 9×9-inch baking dish. Press it evenly and firmly into the bottom to create a compact base layer.
  4. Prepare the lemon filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, heavy cream, salt, and fresh lemon juice until smooth and well combined.
  5. Pour filling over crust: Pour the lemon filling mixture over the pressed crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula to cover the entire surface.
  6. Bake the bars: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bars in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until the filling is set and slightly firm to the touch.
  7. Cool and slice: Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the dish on a wire rack. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up further. Slice into squares and serve.

Notes

  • Ensure the melted butter is cooled to avoid partially cooking the sugars or eggs prematurely.
  • Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor; bottled lemon juice will alter the taste.
  • You can dust the bars with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.
  • Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • For easier slicing, chill the bars thoroughly and use a sharp knife dipped in hot water before cutting.