These delicious lemon bars feature a buttery crust, a creamy lemon filling, and a golden crumb topping. Perfect for dessert, afternoon tea, or family gatherings!
Ingredients
For the Crust and Crumble Topping
- 2½ cups (315 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For the Lemon Filling
- 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 egg yolks
- ½ cup (120 ml) fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish.
Step 2: Make the Crumble Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
- Add the softened butter and vanilla.
- Mix with your fingers or a pastry cutter until crumbly.
Step 3: Form the Crust
- Press about two-thirds of the crumble mixture firmly into the bottom of the baking dish.
- Bake for 15 minutes until lightly golden.
Step 4: Prepare the Lemon Filling
- In a bowl, whisk together:
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Egg yolks
- Lemon juice
- Lemon zest
- Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Add the Filling
- Pour the lemon mixture evenly over the warm crust.
- Spread gently with a spatula.
Step 6: Add the Crumble Topping
- Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture evenly over the lemon filling.
Step 7: Bake
- Return to the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes or until the top is lightly golden.
Step 8: Cool
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours for clean slices.
Step 9: Slice and Serve
- Cut into squares.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Tips
✔ Add extra lemon zest for a stronger citrus flavor.
✔ Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
✔ Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 40–45 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Servings: 12 squares
🍋 A buttery, tangy, and irresistibly creamy dessert everyone will love! ✨