If you’re looking to indulge in a tangy yet sweet treat that will tantalize your taste buds without the fuss, look no further than No-Fuss Lemon Cream Bars. These delectable delights are perfect for any occasion, be it a casual family gathering or a special get-together with friends. Imagine taking a bite of a soft, crumbly crust topped with a rich and creamy lemon filling that offers just the right amount of tartness. Each bite takes you on a refreshing journey, with flavors that are both unique and comforting. The simplicity of this recipe makes it a wonderful addition to your dessert repertoire, providing a burst of lemony goodness with minimal effort.
The allure of these lemon cream bars lies not only in their flavor but also in the ease of preparation. With a straightforward list of ingredients and simple steps, even novice bakers can achieve perfect results. There’s something undeniably satisfying about creating a dessert from scratch that captivates with its vibrant flavor and elegant appearance. The combination of a buttery graham cracker crust and a luscious lemon cream filling ensures that every bar is a perfect harmony of textures and tastes. Moreover, with a quick preparation and cooking time, you can have these beautiful bars ready to impress with minimal time commitment.
Whether you’re a lemon dessert enthusiast or just curious to try something new, these lemon cream bars are sure to deliver a burst of joy. They are truly a testament to the power of simple ingredients used skillfully to create something extraordinary.
Why You’ll Love This No-Fuss Lemon Cream Bars
There are plenty of reasons to fall in love with these simple yet delightful lemon cream bars. Here’s what makes them a great choice:
- Easy to Make: With basic ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is a breeze for bakers at any skill level.
- Fresh and Flavorful: The tangy lemon zest paired with creamy sweetness makes for a refreshing treat.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: These bars are versatile enough for everyday snacking or special events.
- Light and Refreshing: The lemon provides a lightness that makes these bars ideal for summer desserts.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into making these No-Fuss Lemon Cream Bars, a little planning and preparation in your kitchen can help ensure a smooth baking process. Start by gathering all your ingredients and tools so everything is within easy reach. This recipe doesn’t require any sophisticated equipment, keeping the preparation stress-free. You will need a standard 8×8-inch baking dish, two mixing bowls, a whisk for combining the filling ingredients, and a spatula for spreading the crust and filling smoothly.
Ensure your kitchen countertop or workspace is clean and clutter-free. Consider pre-measuring your ingredients: graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, lemon juice, and zest. Pre-measuring saves time and makes the assembly of the bars quicker and more efficient. If you choose to line your baking dish, parchment paper can be a savior, preventing the bars from sticking and making cleaning up a breeze. Finally, preheating the oven is crucial, as baking the crust first gives it the perfect crispness to support the creamy lemon top.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuits)
- 6 tbsp melted butter
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 3 egg yolks
- Optional: Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Optional: Whipped cream, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). To ensure the bars don’t stick, grease or line an 8×8-inch baking dish. In a bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs, 6 tablespoons of melted butter, and ¼ cup of sugar. Mix these ingredients thoroughly until well combined, creating a sandy texture. Firmly press this mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, forming an even layer. Bake the crust in your preheated oven for about 8 minutes, allowing it to set. Once done, set it aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Filling
While the crust is cooling, focus on the satisfying lemon filling. In another bowl, whisk together 1 can of sweetened condensed milk, ½ cup of fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of lemon zest, and 3 egg yolks. Whisk until all the ingredients are smoothly integrated, creating a creamy lemon mixture. Pour this mixture over the pre-baked crust, using a spatula to spread it evenly across the surface.
Step 3: Bake and Set
Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15 to 18 minutes. Keep a close eye to ensure the filling sets without overcooking; it’s ready when the center is set but still retains a slight jiggle. Once baked, let the bars cool at room temperature before transferring them to the refrigerator. Allow at least 2 hours for cooling, ensuring the filling is firm enough for clean slicing.
Variations
Personalize your lemon cream bars with these delightful variations:
- Protein: Add nuts such as chopped walnuts or pecans to the crust for an extra crunch.
- Vegetables: Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a refreshing touch and enhanced aroma.
- Spices: Introduce a hint of spice by adding a sprinkle of ground cinnamon into the crust mixture.
Cooking Notes
- Adjust the lemony flavor by adding more or less lemon juice according to your taste preference.
- For a firmer crust, ensure it’s pressed tightly and evenly across the dish.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy these bars served cold with a dusting of powdered sugar for a classic look.
- Top with a dollop of whipped cream to complement the tart lemon flavor elegantly.
Tips
- To easily extract juice from lemons, roll them on the countertop before juicing.
- Lining the baking dish with parchment paper makes it easier to lift and cut the bars.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Protein: Approximately based on egg use
- Sodium: Varies by salted or unsalted butter and condensed milk
FAQs
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
While fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, bottled can be used as a substitute.
How do I know if the filling is set?
The filling should be set with a slight jiggle in the center before cooling and refrigerating.
Can these bars be made ahead of time?
Yes, they can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until serving.
Do these bars freeze well?
These bars do not freeze well due to the creamy filling’s texture; refrigerating is ideal for storage.
Conclusion
In conclusion, No-Fuss Lemon Cream Bars are an exceptional choice for a dessert that delights with both its simplicity and sophistication. These bars offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures, proving that good things can come from modest beginnings. Don’t hesitate to add your personal touch with variations or follow-up with serving suggestions to make them your own. We encourage all readers to try this recipe and experience the burst of sunshine in each bite. Feel free to share your results in the comments below or share this recipe with friends who love a refreshing, easy dessert. Enjoy your lemony creation!
Print
No-Fuss Lemon Cream Bars
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars 1x
Description
Indulge in tangy yet sweet No-Fuss Lemon Cream Bars, perfect for any occasion with a crumbly crust and creamy lemon filling.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuits)
- 6 tbsp melted butter
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 3 egg yolks
- Optional: Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Optional: Whipped cream, for serving
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). To ensure the bars don’t stick, grease or line an 8×8-inch baking dish. Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar, then press into the bottom of the dish. Bake for 8 minutes and allow to cool slightly.
- Whisk sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and egg yolks in another bowl. Pour over the pre-baked crust and spread evenly.
- Bake for an additional 15 to 18 minutes until the filling is set. Cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
Adjust the lemony flavor by adding more or less lemon juice according to your taste preference. For a firmer crust, ensure it’s pressed tightly and evenly across the dish.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Sodium: Varies by salted or unsalted butter and condensed milk
- Protein: Approximately based on egg use