Lemon Crumb Bars : A Quick and Easy Bar Recipe

When life gives you lemons, make Lemon Crumb Bars—a perfect balance of sweet, tart, and buttery goodness that’s ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a dessert to impress at brunch, a refreshing summer treat, or just an excuse to use up lemons, this lemon crumble bars recipe is a go-to classic.

These quick easy bars come together in no time and deliver big flavor with minimal effort. The rich crumb base (and topping!) is layered with a creamy, zesty lemon filling that’s smooth, tangy, and bright. If you’re a fan of bar recipes easy enough for any home baker, you’ll absolutely love these.

Looking to expand your collection of citrusy treats? Don’t miss our Lemon Brownies—they’re another lemon lover’s dream.

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Why You’ll Love This Lemon Crumble Bars Recipe

These bars aren’t just delicious—they’re versatile, simple, and crowd-pleasing. Here’s why they stand out among all other squares and bars recipes easy to make:

• Crispy and buttery crumb layers with a smooth lemon center
• Uses simple pantry ingredients you likely already have
• Easily customizable with nuts, zest, or glaze
• Perfect make-ahead treat for potlucks, picnics, or gifting
• A fun twist if you’re tired of traditional lemon bars with pecan crust

If you enjoy fruit-forward desserts, you’ll also love the texture and flavor of our Raspberry Cream Cheese Bites.

Ingredients for Lemon Crumb Bars with Pecan Crust

This recipe makes about 16 square bars in an 8×8-inch pan. Double it for a 9×13 pan.

For the Crumb Base and Topping

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup finely chopped pecans (optional)

For the Lemon Filling

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• ½ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Garnish

• Powdered sugar for dusting
• Extra lemon zest
• White chocolate drizzle

Want to explore more easy breakfast-style bars? These Pumpkin Maple Blondies are a delicious option for fall.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Lemon Crunch Bars

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Crumb Mixture

In a medium bowl, stir together the melted butter, sugar, flour, salt, and pecans (if using). Mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 3: Press the Crust

Press two-thirds of the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until lightly golden.

Step 4: Prepare the Lemon Filling

In a separate bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, zest, egg yolks, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Assemble the Layers

Pour the lemon mixture over the pre-baked crust and spread evenly. Crumble the remaining crust mixture evenly over the top.

Step 6: Bake Again

Return to the oven and bake for another 20–22 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the center is just set.

Step 7: Cool and Chill

Let the bars cool completely at room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before cutting.

Step 8: Slice and Serve

Once chilled, lift bars out using the parchment and cut into squares. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.

Pair these with a refreshing drink like Strawberry Cream Soda for a delightful afternoon treat.

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Tips for the Best Lemon Crumb Bars Every Time

• Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor—bottled lemon juice just isn’t the same.
• Don’t skip chilling before slicing, or the filling may ooze.
• Press crust firmly to avoid crumbling when cutting.
• Double the recipe for larger crowds using a 9×13-inch pan.

Want to add a warm twist? Try pairing these bars with a cozy side like Creamy Summer Pasta Salad for brunch gatherings.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need for This Recipe

• 8×8 or 9×13-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk and spatula
• Microplane or zester
• Citrus juicer
• Sharp knife for slicing bars

Looking for more baked treats with a crumb topping? You’ll love our Cinnamon Apple Bread or Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls.

Storage and Freezing Tips for Lemon Bars

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Best served chilled.

Freezer: Place in a freezer-safe container with parchment between layers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

These bars also make great make-ahead treats for events. For more make-ahead goodness, check out our Make-Ahead Breakfast Bowls.

Serving Ideas for Lemon Crumble Squares

• Dust with powdered sugar before serving
• Top with whipped cream or coconut cream for extra indulgence
• Serve with fresh raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries on the side
• Drizzle with a lemon glaze or white chocolate for a fancier finish

Want more zesty ideas? These Lemon Pudding Pumpkin Breads are another unique citrusy twist.

Flavor Variations and Creative Add-Ins

• Lemon + Raspberry: Add a layer of fresh raspberries before the top crumb
• Lemon + Coconut: Add shredded coconut to the crumb topping
• Lemon + White Chocolate: Mix white chocolate chips into the lemon layer
• Citrus Combo: Use a blend of lemon and orange zest for a bright twist

Try pairing one of these variations with a cup of Lavender Lemonade for the ultimate refreshment.

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Lemon Bars with Pecan Crust FAQs

Can I make these without pecans?
Absolutely! Simply omit them, or substitute with walnuts or almonds if preferred.

Can I use graham cracker crumbs as the crust?
You can, but you’ll lose the buttery crumble texture that makes these unique.

Do they need to be refrigerated?
Yes. Because of the dairy in the filling, they should be stored chilled.

Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes—use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend and ensure your oats or add-ins are certified gluten-free.

Can I freeze lemon bars?
Definitely. They freeze beautifully and taste just as fresh when thawed.

Pair These Bars with Other Squares and Bars Recipes Easy to Make

These lemon crumb bars pair wonderfully with other easy bar recipes from your collection. Try these:

• Swirled Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars
• Pumpkin Dump Cake
• No-Bake Coconut Cream Lush Dessert
• Chocolate Chip Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cookies

Add one or two to your dessert tray for variety and extra wow factor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Crumb Bars

• Not pressing the crust enough: This leads to crumbly bars that fall apart
• Cutting before cooling: The filling will ooze out and the bars won’t hold shape
• Overbaking: The filling should be just set, not browned
• Using bottled lemon juice: You’ll miss out on the fresh citrus punch

Looking for a flavor-rich alternative with more texture? Try our Apple Cider Donut Loaf to celebrate fall.

Lemon Crumb Bars for Every Occasion

These lemon crunch bars are a hit at:

• Brunches and showers
• Spring and summer potlucks
• Bake sales and gifting
• Holiday dessert trays
• Everyday afternoon treats

Their balance of buttery, sweet, and tart makes them versatile and loved by all ages.

Want more comfort bakes? Our Custard Bread Pudding is a rich and cozy follow-up to this lemony delight.

Conclusion + Call to Action

Whether you’re new to baking or looking for your next show-stopping dessert, these Lemon Crumb Bars are a must-try. With their golden, buttery crumble and luscious lemon filling, they’re easy to make and even easier to devour.

If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family, and subscribe to the blog for more easy bar recipes like Strawberry Kiss Cookies and Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies.

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