Description
Delight in these refreshing Lemon Oatmeal Crumb Bars featuring a crisp gluten-free oat crust, creamy tangy lemon filling, and a crunchy crumb topping. Perfectly balanced with the natural sweetness of maple syrup and a zing of fresh lemon juice and zest, these bars are a wholesome, dairy-free treat ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Crust and Crumb Topping
- 1 ¼ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour*
- 1 cup gluten-free rolled oats
- 6 Tbsp coconut oil, melted
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup***
- Pinch of sea salt
Lemon Filling
- 1 cup full-fat canned coconut milk
- 1 Tbsp lemon zest
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 5 Tbsp pure maple syrup***
- 3 Tbsp gluten-free all-purpose flour****
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8” x 8” baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease removal of the bars.
- Mix Crust and Topping Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine all the crust and crumb topping ingredients including the gluten-free flour, oats, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and sea salt. Stir until the mixture is thick and dough-like. If too crumbly, add 1 to 2 tablespoons more melted coconut oil to achieve the right consistency.
- Separate a Portion for Crumble: Measure out ⅔ cup of the mixture and set it aside; this will be used later as the crumb topping. Press the remaining mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan using your hands for even distribution.
- Bake the Crust: Place the pan in the oven and bake the crust for about 15 minutes until the edges turn slightly golden brown, signaling it’s ready for the filling.
- Prepare the Lemon Filling: While the crust bakes, combine all lemon filling ingredients (coconut milk, lemon zest, lemon juice, maple syrup, and gluten-free flour) in a small saucepan. Heat over medium-high while whisking constantly until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy, roughly 1 to 3 minutes.
- Add Filling and Crumble Topping: Remove the crust from the oven and immediately pour the lemon filling over it, spreading evenly. Then sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture on top evenly for a crunchy layer.
- Bake the Bars: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes or until the lemon filling has set and the crumb topping looks crispy and lightly golden.
- Cool and Chill: Let the bars cool to room temperature in the pan. For best texture and flavor, cover with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate until completely chilled, which enhances the bars’ firmness and taste.
- Serve: Slice into 9 squares and serve chilled. These bars are ideal to prepare ahead as their flavor deepens after chilling.
Notes
- Use gluten-free all-purpose flour to keep this recipe gluten-free.
- Melt the coconut oil before mixing to help bind the crust and crumble.
- Pure maple syrup provides a natural sweetener alternative that complements the lemon flavor.
- If the crust mixture feels too dry, adding extra coconut oil can improve consistency.
- These bars keep well refrigerated for up to 5 days and can be frozen for longer storage.
- To ensure the filling sets well, constant whisking during cooking is important.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
