Description
These Oatmeal Lemon Crumble Bars combine a buttery, crumbly oat crust with a tangy lemon filling, creating a delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors. Perfect for spring and summer gatherings, these bars are easy to make and deliver a refreshingly bright dessert that pairs wonderfully with tea or coffee.
Ingredients
Crust and Topping
- 7 Tablespoons (99g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 3/4 cup (150g) packed light or dark brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour, spooned & leveled
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (85g) old-fashioned whole oats or quick oats (not instant)
Lemon Filling
- 1 (14-ounce weight) can full-fat sweetened condensed milk
- 6 Tablespoons (90ml) lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1 Tablespoon lemon zest (about 1 lemon)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper for easy removal of the bars later.
- Make the Crust/Topping Mixture: Using a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the softened butter and brown sugar on medium-high speed until combined, about 3 minutes. Scrape down the bowl, add vanilla bean paste, and beat for 30 seconds. Add flour, baking powder, salt, and oats, then beat on medium until crumbly and combined.
- Form the Crust: Lightly press a bit more than half of the crumble mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan. This layer acts as the crust. Bake it for 12 minutes to pre-bake the crust.
- Prepare Lemon Filling: While the crust bakes, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, and lemon zest until thick and well combined.
- Assemble Bars: Pour and spread the lemon filling evenly over the hot pre-baked crust. Then sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture over the filling as the topping.
- Bake the Bars: Return the pan to the oven and bake for 22–25 minutes, or until the edges are very lightly browned and the filling appears set. Take care to avoid over-baking.
- Cool and Slice: Remove from oven and place on a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, lift the bars out using the parchment paper overhang and cut into squares.
- Store: Cover leftover bars and store at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Use freshly grated lemon zest and fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Do not over-bake the bars to maintain a soft and tender filling.
- If you prefer a tarter flavor, you can add a little extra lemon juice but be cautious not to make the filling too runny.
- Store bars in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
- The bars can be served chilled or at room temperature depending on your preference.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 37 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
