Lemon Cream Crumble Bars are a delightful balance of zesty citrus flavor, creamy filling, and a buttery crumble topping. Perfect for tea-time, parties, or as a refreshing dessert, these bars combine the tartness of lemon with the richness of cream to create a treat that feels both indulgent and light. With their golden crust, velvety center, and crumbly topping, they offer layers of flavor and texture in every bite. This recipe is easy to prepare, makes a generous batch, and is sure to impress both family and guests with its bakery-style finish.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 large egg yolks
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal. In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add softened butter and use your hands or a pastry cutter to form a crumbly mixture. Reserve about 1 cup of this mixture for topping. Press the remaining mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared dish to create the crust. Bake for 10–12 minutes until lightly golden.
- In another bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and egg yolks until smooth and creamy. Pour this lemon cream mixture over the slightly cooled crust, spreading it evenly to the edges.
- Sprinkle the reserved crumble mixture evenly over the top. Bake again for 25–30 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the filling is set. Cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into neat bars. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Servings
Makes about 16 bars.
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)
Calories: 220
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Sugar: 18g
Protein: 3g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 90mg
Notes
These bars taste best when chilled, as the cream layer becomes firmer and easier to cut. Always use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor, as bottled juice lacks the brightness of fresh citrus.
Tips
Use cold butter for a crunchier crumble texture. Line your baking dish with parchment paper to make lifting and slicing easier. For extra flavor, you can add a hint of vanilla extract to the filling. Bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for 2 months.
Health Benefits
Lemons are rich in vitamin C, which helps strengthen the immune system and promotes healthy skin. The zest contains natural antioxidants that support overall health. While this dessert is indulgent, it offers a refreshing way to enjoy the benefits of citrus. The balance of fat and carbohydrates also makes it a satisfying treat in moderation, providing quick energy and a mood boost.
Q & A
Q: Can I use lime instead of lemon?
A: Yes, lime juice and zest can be substituted for a tangier variation.
Q: Do I need to refrigerate the bars?
A: Yes, refrigeration is essential to help the cream layer set properly.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a similar result.
Q: How can I make the bars less sweet?
A: Reduce the sugar in the crust mixture slightly or use less sweetened condensed milk combined with Greek yogurt.
Q: Can I prepare these ahead of time?
A: Absolutely, they are perfect for make-ahead desserts and taste even better the next day.