Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

This Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe is the perfect blend of tangy and sweet flavors, making it an ideal treat for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering, a picnic with friends, or just a delightful dessert for yourself, these lemon bars are sure to impress. Made with wholesome ingredients, this recipe is both simple and satisfying, showcasing the bright taste of lemons without compromising on nutrition.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip up this delicious dessert quickly.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh lemon juice and zest creates a refreshing taste that brightens any day.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for any occasion—from casual coffee breaks to elegant dinner parties.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Utilizes healthy alternatives like maple syrup and coconut cream, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
• Gluten-Free Option: This recipe can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free all-purpose flour.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your vegan lemon bars, gather the necessary tools and equipment. Having the right kitchen tools will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking pan (square)
• Parchment paper
• Blender
• Spatula
• Fork

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows for easy mixing of all crust ingredients, ensuring they combine well without making a mess.
• Baking pan: A square baking pan gives your lemon bars their classic shape and helps them cook evenly.
• Blender: Essential for achieving that smooth and creamy lemon filling, blending ensures all ingredients are well integrated.

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (240 g – you can also use regular all-purpose flour)
• 1 cup vegan butter (230 g)
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Lemon Filling

• 1 cup coconut cream
• 1/2 cup soaked cashews
• 1/2 cup lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup cornstarch
• pinch of salt
• pinch of turmeric (optional, for color)

How to Make Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by preparing the crust. Combine all of the crust ingredients in a large bowl and mix them well.

Step 2: Bake the Crust

Line a square baking pan with parchment paper and grease it with coconut oil. Transfer the crust mixture into the pan. Use a spoon or the flat bottom of a cup to press down on the crust to create an even layer. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden brown around the edges. Remove from oven and let cool.

Step 3: Poke Holes in the Crust

Using a fork, poke holes throughout the crust—about halfway down. This step helps keep the crust and filling together better.

Step 4: Make the Lemon Filling

While your crust is cooling, prepare your lemon filling. In a blender, combine coconut cream, soaked cashews, lemon juice, lemon zest, maple syrup, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cornstarch, salt, and turmeric (if using). Blend until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Cook Filling Mixture

Transfer your blended mixture into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously while cooking for about 4-6 minutes or until thickened significantly.

Step 6: Assemble & Chill

Pour your thickened lemon filling over the cooled crust in the baking pan. Use a spatula to level it out evenly. Refrigerate overnight or at least for 4-6 hours until fully set.

Step 7: Serve

Once chilled and set, slice into bars. Dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired. Enjoy your delicious vegan lemon bars!

How to Serve Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

These vegan lemon bars are deliciously tangy and sweet, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dessert experience.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve your lemon bars with a side of fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. The tartness of the berries complements the sweetness of the bars beautifully.

Topped with Coconut Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of coconut whipped cream on top of each bar for an extra creamy texture. This dairy-free option elevates the dessert while keeping it vegan.

Drizzled with Lemon Glaze

• Create a simple glaze by mixing powdered sugar with lemon juice. Drizzle this over the cooled bars for an added burst of flavor and a beautiful finish.

Paired with Herbal Tea

• Enjoy your lemon bars alongside a warm cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile or peppermint. The soothing flavors will balance the tanginess of the dessert.

Garnished with Mint Leaves

• For a refreshing twist, garnish each bar with fresh mint leaves. This adds color and a hint of freshness that pairs well with the lemon flavor.

Served Chilled

• Chill your lemon bars in the refrigerator before serving. This makes them even more refreshing, especially on warm days.

How to Perfect Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

For those looking to elevate their vegan lemon bar experience, here are some helpful tips for perfection.

• Use fresh lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides a brighter and more vibrant flavor compared to bottled juice.
• Soak cashews properly: Soaking cashews for at least 4 hours ensures they blend into a creamy filling without gritty textures.
• Don’t skip the cornstarch: Cornstarch is essential for thickening the filling. Make sure to measure accurately for the best results.
• Cool completely before slicing: Allowing the lemon bars to cool in the fridge overnight helps them set properly, making slicing easier and cleaner.
• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add other citrus zest like lime or orange for a unique twist on your filling.
• Store correctly: Keep leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

Vegan lemon bars pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their bright flavors. Consider these options:

1. Coconut Macaroons – These chewy treats made from shredded coconut add another layer of sweetness that balances well with lemon.
2. Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits provides contrast and refreshment alongside rich lemony goodness.
3. Chia Pudding – This nutritious pudding can be flavored with vanilla or fruit puree, offering a creamy texture that contrasts nicely.
4. Granola Clusters – Crunchy granola clusters provide an enjoyable textural contrast while enhancing the overall snacking experience.
5. Almond Biscotti – Pairing your lemon bars with almond biscotti adds crunch and nutty flavor, perfect for dipping in tea.
6. Frozen Banana Sorbet – A light and refreshing sorbet made from blended frozen bananas pairs excellently as a cooling side treat.
7. Dark Chocolate Dipped Fruit – Dip strawberries or banana slices in dark chocolate for a decadent touch that complements citrus notes beautifully.
8. Oatmeal Cookies – Soft oatmeal cookies provide heartiness that balances out the zesty flavor of your vegan lemon bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe to perfection. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using the wrong flour: Always check if you have gluten-free flour if needed. Regular flour can work, but it won’t be gluten-free.
• Skipping the chilling time: Refrigerating your bars is critical for achieving the right texture. Don’t rush this step; let them chill properly.
• Not measuring accurately: Precision in measurements is key. Use a kitchen scale for the best results, especially with dry ingredients.
• Overmixing the filling: Blend just until smooth. Overmixing can introduce air bubbles, affecting the final texture of your bars.
• Neglecting to poke holes in the crust: This helps prevent sogginess. Poke holes halfway through before adding the filling for better results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your vegan lemon bars in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 10 minutes. This helps retain their texture while warming.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds per bar. Be careful not to overheat, as they can get too soft.
• Stovetop: Place them in a skillet over low heat with a lid. Warm gently for about 5-7 minutes until slightly heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions people have about this Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe:

Can I make these vegan lemon bars gluten-free?

Yes! Just use gluten-free all-purpose flour instead of regular flour.

How long do these vegan lemon bars need to chill?

Refrigerate them overnight or for at least 4-6 hours to ensure they set properly.

Can I use other sweeteners instead of maple syrup?

Sure! You can substitute agave nectar or date syrup if you prefer a different flavor.

What is the best way to serve vegan lemon bars?

Dust them with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant touch.

Can I customize this Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe?

Absolutely! Try adding berries or nuts to the filling for added flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding fruits or spices according to your taste. Give it a try, and enjoy these tangy, sweet treats that are perfect for any occasion!

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

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Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Makes approximately 16 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the refreshing zest of our Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe, a delightful treat that perfectly balances tangy and sweet flavors. These bars are not only simple to prepare but also guilt-free, making them an ideal dessert for any occasion—from family gatherings to solo indulgence. Made with wholesome ingredients like coconut cream and maple syrup, these lemon bars offer a creamy filling atop a buttery crust that will leave your taste buds dancing. Plus, they can easily be made gluten-free! Enjoy the bright flavor of fresh lemons while staying true to your dietary preferences.

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Ingredients

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• 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
• 1 cup vegan butter
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 1 cup coconut cream
• 1/2 cup soaked cashews
• 1/2 cup lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup cornstarch
• pinch of salt
• pinch of turmeric (optional, for color)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine flour, vegan butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt until well mixed.
2. Line a square baking pan with parchment paper and press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
3. Poke holes in the cooled crust using a fork.
4. Blend together coconut cream, soaked cashews, lemon juice, lemon zest, maple syrup, granulated sugar, cornstarch, salt, and turmeric until smooth.
5. Cook this mixture in a saucepan over medium heat for about 4-6 minutes until thickened.
6. Pour the filling over the crust and refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours or overnight until set.
7. Slice into bars and serve chilled.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Vegan

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar (60g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg