These Lemon Cream Crumb Bars are a bright and tangy treat, perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings. You’ll love how simple these easy dessert recipes are to prepare, offering a delightful combination of creamy lemon and buttery crumb.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- All-purpose flour: You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free option.
- Granulated sugar: Coconut sugar works as a less refined alternative.
- Cold butter: Dairy-free butter sticks can be used for a dairy-free version.
- Cream cheese: Use a block of full-fat cream cheese for the best texture. Dairy-free cream cheese is a good substitute.
- Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice makes a big difference. Bottled lemon juice is acceptable in a pinch.
- Lemon zest: Don’t skip this for extra bright lemon flavor!
Ingredients
For the Crumb Topping and Crust:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- 1 large egg
For the Lemon Cream Filling:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 12
- Calories per serving: Approximately 320 calories
- Tools Needed: 9×13 inch baking pan, mixing bowls, electric mixer (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. This helps ensure your easy dessert recipes don’t stick.
2. Make the Crumb Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the flour, ¾ cup granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg and mix until just combined, forming a crumbly dough.
3. Form the Crust
Press about two-thirds of the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. This will be the base for your delightful easy dessert recipes.
4. Prepare the Lemon Cream Filling
In a separate medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and ½ cup granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Beat in the egg, then stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest until well combined.
5. Assemble the Bars
Pour the lemon cream filling evenly over the crust in the pan. Crumble the remaining one-third of the crumb mixture over the top of the lemon filling.
6. Bake Your Bars
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the filling is set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. Let these easy dessert recipes cool completely before slicing.
Variation Ideas
- Berry Burst: Add ½ cup fresh blueberries or raspberries to the lemon cream filling for a fruity twist.
- Coconut Zest: Mix 2 tablespoons of shredded coconut into the crumb topping for a tropical hint.
- Almond Flour Crust: Substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour in the crust with almond flour for a slightly different texture and flavor.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover Lemon Cream Crumb Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage; wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use bottled lemon juice?
A: Yes, you can use bottled lemon juice, but fresh lemon juice provides a brighter, more vibrant flavor.
Q: Why is my crust crumbling too much?
A: Ensure your butter is very cold and cut into small pieces. Avoid overmixing the dough, as this can make it tough.
Q: How do I know when the bars are done baking?
A: The top should be lightly golden, and the center should be set, not jiggly. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! These easy dessert recipes can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
Q: My cream cheese is not softening, what should I do?
A: You can unwrap the cream cheese and microwave it for 10-15 seconds on low power to help it soften more quickly.
Q: Do I have to use parchment paper?
A: While not strictly required, parchment paper makes removing the bars from the pan much easier and cleaner.