Description
Zesty lemon crumb bars bring Mediterranean sunshine to classic dessert bars, melding tangy citrus with buttery crumble. Sweet-tart layers promise rich flavor that will delight anyone craving a refreshing summer treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins:
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken tenders
- 8 slices bacon
Seasonings:
- ½ cup (100 g) brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the foundation by lining a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing slight overhang for easy removal. Ensure the paper is smoothly pressed against the pan’s interior surfaces.
- Create the buttery crust mixture by combining flour, sugar, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Incorporate cold butter using fingertips or a pastry cutter until the texture resembles coarse, crumbly breadcrumbs.
- Press approximately two-thirds of the crumb mixture firmly into the prepared pan, creating an even, compact base layer. Reserve the remaining crumbs for the topping.
- Prepare the lemon filling by whisking together eggs, granulated sugar, flour, fresh lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth and well-integrated. Ensure no lumps remain in the mixture.
- Carefully pour the bright, tangy lemon mixture over the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface. Use a spatula to distribute the filling uniformly.
- Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the lemon filling, creating a rustic, textured topping that will provide delightful crunch and visual appeal.
- Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges turn golden and the center appears set but slightly jiggly when gently shaken.
- Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan at room temperature. This resting period helps the filling firm up and makes cutting easier.
- Once cooled, lift the bars out using the parchment paper overhang and transfer to a cutting board. Slice into neat squares using a sharp knife, wiping the blade clean between cuts for precise edges.
- Dust the bars with powdered sugar just before serving, which adds a delicate sweetness and elegant finishing touch to these zesty, crumbly treats.
Notes
- Zesty Lemon Enhancement: Add fresh lemon zest to the crumb mixture for an extra bright citrusy punch that elevates the entire dessert’s flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free Adaptation: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend to make the bars safe for those with gluten sensitivities, ensuring same delicious texture.
- Storage and Freshness: Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days, or refrigerate for up to a week to maintain optimal moisture and crumb consistency.
- Customization Options: Experiment with different citrus variations like orange or lime zest to create unique flavor twists on the classic lemon crumb bar recipe.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 438
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 897 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 33 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg