Lemon Crumb Squares

These Lemon Crumb Squares are a delightful treat that beautifully combines tangy lemon flavor with a buttery crumble. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a cozy dessert at home, these squares are easy to make and will impress anyone who takes a bite. The soft, citrusy filling paired with the crumbly topping creates a balance that is both sweet and refreshing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these up in no time.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a winter gathering, these bars fit right in.
• Deliciously Tangy: The combination of lemon juice and zest gives each bite a bright, fresh taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or even breakfast treat with coffee.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet yet tart flavor profile.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to make the process smooth. Having everything ready ensures you can focus on creating your delicious Lemon Crumb Squares without interruption.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8×8-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper or foil
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• 8×8-inch baking pan: This size is perfect for achieving the ideal thickness of Lemon Crumb Squares.
• Whisk: Essential for thoroughly blending ingredients, ensuring a smooth filling and crumb mixture.

Ingredients

These soft and tangy Lemon Crumb Bars feature a luscious lemon filling between layers of buttery crumble, creating the perfect balance of sweet and citrusy flavors.

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup old-fashioned oats
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¾ teaspoon baking soda
• 10 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• ½ cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 2 tablespoons sour cream or plain yogurt
• 1 large egg yolk
• ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 heaping tablespoon finely grated lemon zest
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Lemon Crumb Squares

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by heating your oven to 350°F. Prepare your 8×8-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper or foil. Leave an overhang for easy removal later and spray it with nonstick spray.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine:
* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* 1 cup old-fashioned oats
* ¼ teaspoon salt
* ¾ teaspoon baking soda

Mix well until evenly distributed.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together:
* 10 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
* ½ cup packed light brown sugar
* 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Once combined, add the dry ingredients from Step 2 to this mixture and stir until just combined.

Step 4: Prepare the Base

Set aside ¾ cup of the dough for topping. Press the remaining dough into the prepared pan evenly across the bottom.

Step 5: Bake the Base

Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes until lightly golden.

Step 6: Make the Filling

In a separate bowl, whisk together:
* 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
* 2 tablespoons sour cream (or yogurt)
* 1 large egg yolk
* ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
* 1 heaping tablespoon finely grated lemon zest
* ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Ensure everything is mixed thoroughly.

Step 7: Pour Filling Over Base

Remove the baked crust from the oven. Pour your lemon filling over it gently, spreading it evenly across the surface.

Step 8: Add Topping

Crumble the reserved dough from earlier over the top of the filling evenly.

Step 9: Bake Again

Return to oven and bake for an additional 17–20 minutes until golden brown and set in the middle.

Step 10: Cool & Serve

Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing them into squares. Enjoy these delicious Lemon Crumb Squares!

How to Serve Lemon Crumb Squares

Lemon Crumb Squares are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them solo, these squares offer versatility in presentation and pairing.

With Fresh Berries

• Fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries make a vibrant and tasty addition on the side, enhancing the citrus flavor of the bars.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream on top or alongside adds a creamy contrast to the tangy lemon filling, making each bite even more indulgent.

Paired with Ice Cream

• Serve warm Lemon Crumb Squares with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a luxurious dessert experience that balances sweetness and tartness.

Garnished with Mint

• A sprinkle of fresh mint leaves not only adds color but also infuses a refreshing note that complements the lemon’s brightness.

Drizzled with Lemon Glaze

• A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice can be drizzled over the squares for an extra touch of sweetness and zing.

How to Perfect Lemon Crumb Squares

Achieving the perfect Lemon Crumb Squares requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your bars turn out delicious every time.

• Use fresh lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest elevate the flavor, making your squares taste vibrant and zesty.
• Don’t skip chilling: Allowing your squares to cool completely before slicing helps maintain their structure and makes clean cuts easier.
• Watch baking time: Keep an eye on the oven to avoid overbaking. The top should be golden brown but not too dark.
• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to try different toppings like toasted coconut or nuts for added texture and flavor variations.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Crumb Squares

Lemon Crumb Squares pair well with a variety of side dishes that can complement their bright flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits enhances the citrus notes in the squares while providing a healthy balance.
2. Greek Yogurt Parfait
   Layered yogurt with granola and fruits creates a creamy counterpart that contrasts beautifully with the crumb bars.
3. Cheese Platter
   A selection of mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese offers a savory option that pairs nicely with the sweet-tart flavors.
4. Chilled Tea
   Iced herbal or green tea provides a refreshing drink option that cleanses the palate between bites.
5. Nutty Granola Bars
   These chewy snacks can add crunch and additional fiber, making them a wholesome pairing for your dessert.
6. Pistachio Cookies
   Lightly sweetened pistachio cookies provide a lovely flavor contrast while still being delicate enough not to overpower the main treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Lemon Crumb Squares, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for a perfect batch.

• Skipping the parchment paper: Not lining your pan can lead to sticking. Always use parchment paper or foil to ensure easy removal.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can make the crust tough. Mix until just combined for a tender texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Inaccurate measurements can affect the filling and crust. Use a digital scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Ignoring cooling time: Cutting into the squares too soon can result in a messy presentation. Let them cool completely before slicing for neat squares.
• Using bottled lemon juice: Fresh lemon juice provides better flavor than bottled. Always opt for freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Lemon Crumb Squares in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Lemon Crumb Squares

• Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Lemon Crumb Squares

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place squares on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a square in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when Lemon Crumb Squares are done?

The squares are done when they are golden on top and set in the middle. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.

Can I use different citrus in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute lemon with lime or orange juice and zest for a different flavor profile.

How should I serve Lemon Crumb Squares?

These squares are delicious on their own or with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness.

Can I customize my Lemon Crumb Squares?

Absolutely! Consider adding nuts, coconut, or even berries to the filling for added textures and flavors.

Final Thoughts

Lemon Crumb Squares offer a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors that make them irresistible. Their versatility allows for customization with various citrus fruits or mix-ins, making this recipe perfect for any occasion. Try these bars today and enjoy their bright flavors!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Lemon Crumb Squares

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Lemon Crumb Squares are the perfect blend of sweet and tart, featuring a luscious lemon filling nestled between layers of buttery crumble. These delightful bars are not only easy to make but also versatile enough for any occasion, from summer picnics to cozy winter gatherings. With their refreshing citrus flavor and crumbly texture, they are sure to impress family and friends alike. Serve them as a snack, dessert, or even breakfast treat alongside your morning coffee. The balance of flavors makes these squares an irresistible addition to your dessert repertoire.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup old-fashioned oats
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¾ teaspoon baking soda
• 10 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• ½ cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 2 tablespoons sour cream or plain yogurt
• 1 large egg yolk
• ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 heaping tablespoon finely grated lemon zest

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together flour, oats, salt, and baking soda.
3. In another bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Add the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Reserve ¾ cup of dough for topping; press the remaining dough into the prepared pan evenly.
5. Bake the base for about 10 minutes until lightly golden.
6. For the filling, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, sour cream or yogurt, egg yolk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth.
7. Pour the filling over the baked crust and crumble reserved dough on top.
8. Bake again for 17–20 minutes until golden brown and set in the middle.
9. Cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 square (45g)
• Calories: 192
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 90mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 22mg