Lemon Crumb Bars

If you love sweet, tangy, and buttery desserts, then these Lemon Crumb Bars will quickly become a favorite! With a buttery shortbread crust, a luscious lemon filling, and a crumbly topping, these bars strike the perfect balance between sweet and tart.

They are easy to make and perfect for any occasion—tea time, dessert, picnics, potlucks, or even holiday gatherings. Plus, they store well, making them a great make-ahead treat.

Let’s dive into this bright, refreshing, and melt-in-your-mouth dessert that’s sure to impress!

Ingredients (Measured in Grams)

For the Shortbread Crust & Crumb Topping:

250g all-purpose flour
120g granulated sugar
½ teaspoon salt (2g)
180g unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5ml)

For the Lemon Filling:

3 large eggs
150g granulated sugar
100g fresh lemon juice (about 2 large lemons)
1 tablespoon lemon zest (about 1 lemon, finely grated)
30g all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking powder (2g)
¼ teaspoon salt (1g)

For Garnish:

Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shortbread Crust

Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and line a 9×9-inch (23×23 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
Add the cold, cubed butter and vanilla extract. Using a pastry cutter or your hands, mix until the dough resembles coarse crumbs.
Set aside 150g of the mixture (for the crumb topping), and press the remaining dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
Bake for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly while preparing the filling.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Filling

In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until well combined.
Sift in the flour, baking powder, and salt, and whisk until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble & Bake

Pour the lemon filling over the warm shortbread crust.
Sprinkle the reserved crumb topping evenly over the lemon filling.
Bake for 22-25 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the center is set.

Step 4: Cool & Serve

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour for cleaner cuts.
Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

Calories: 240 kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 10g
Sugar: 18g
Fiber: 1g

Note: Nutrition values may vary based on portion sizes and ingredient choices.

Tips & Tricks for the Best Lemon Crumb Bars

✅ Use Fresh Lemon Juice & Zest – Freshly squeezed lemon juice gives the best flavor. Avoid bottled juice!

✅ Chill for Clean Slices – Let the bars cool completely and refrigerate before slicing for perfect, clean edges.

✅ Make It Extra Lemony – Add a bit more zest for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

✅ Adjust the Sweetness – If you love tart lemon desserts, reduce the sugar in the filling slightly.

✅ Add Coconut for a Twist – Sprinkle shredded coconut into the crumb topping for a tropical variation.

✅ Make It Ahead – These bars stay fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge or can be frozen for up to 3 months.

How to Store Lemon Crumb Bars?

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.