Lemon Crumb Bars

Ingredients and Kitchen Equipment

Ingredients

• All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base of both the crumbly crust and topping.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the crust and filling.
• Butter: Provides richness and helps create a tender, crumbly texture.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed for the best flavor.
• Lemon Zest: Adds a concentrated lemon flavor.
• Eggs: Helps to set the lemon filling.
• Baking Powder: Helps the filling rise slightly and become fluffy.
• Powdered Sugar: For a light dusting on top, adding a touch of sweetness.

Kitchen Equipment

• 9×9-Inch Baking Pan: For baking the bars.
• Mixing Bowls: For preparing the crust and filling.
• Whisk: For mixing the filling ingredients.
• Spatula: For spreading the crust and filling evenly.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurements.
• Zester or Grater: For the lemon zest.
• Cooling Rack: For cooling the bars after baking.

Recipe Directions

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Make the Crust:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of flour and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar.
   • Cut in 1/2 cup of cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. You can use a pastry cutter or your fingers for this.
   • Press the crumbly mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
3. Bake the Crust:
   • Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until it is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
4. Prepare the Lemon Filling:
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of flour, 1/4 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
   • Add 1/2 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice, 2 teaspoons of lemon zest, and 2 large eggs. Mix until smooth and well combined.
5. Assemble and Bake:
   • Pour the lemon filling over the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly.
   • Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are slightly golden.
6. Cool and Cut:
   • Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
   • Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar if desired, and cut into squares.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Serve the bars chilled or at room temperature. They make a great addition to any dessert table or a sweet treat for afternoon tea.

Notes and Tips

• Lemon Juice: For the best flavor, use fresh lemon juice rather than bottled. It’s more vibrant and aromatic.
• Cooling: Make sure the bars are completely cooled before cutting to ensure clean, neat squares.
• Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.
• Variations: Try adding a layer of fresh berries or a swirl of fruit preserves to the lemon filling for a different flavor twist.

Food and Drink Pairings

Lemon Crumb Bars pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a more indulgent treat, enjoy them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They’re also a refreshing complement to a light, summery meal like grilled chicken or a fresh salad.