Lemon Cream Crumble Bars combine a buttery crumble coating, a creamy filling, and a zesty citrus flavor in a delicious way. These bars, which blend the richness of cream and the sharpness of lemon to create a treat that feels both decadent and light, are ideal for tea time, celebrations, or as a cool dessert. Each bite offers layers of flavor and texture thanks to their crumbly topping, golden crust, and velvety interior. This recipe is simple to make, yields a large batch, and its bakery-style finish is guaranteed to please family and guests.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup granulated sugar

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

1/2 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

1 tablespoon lemon zest

2 large egg yolks

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal. In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add softened butter and use your hands or a pastry cutter to form a crumbly mixture. Reserve about 1 cup of this mixture for topping. Press the remaining mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared dish to create the crust. Bake for 10–12 minutes until lightly golden.

In another bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and egg yolks until smooth and creamy. Pour this lemon cream mixture over the slightly cooled crust, spreading it evenly to the edges.

Sprinkle the reserved crumble mixture evenly over the top. Bake again for 25–30 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the filling is set. Cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into neat bars. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Servings

Makes about 16 bars.

Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)

Calories: 220

Fat: 11g

Saturated Fat: 7g

Carbohydrates: 28g

Sugar: 18g

Protein: 3g

Fiber: 1g

Sodium: 90mg

Notes

These bars taste best when chilled, as the cream layer becomes firmer and easier to cut. Always use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor, as bottled juice lacks the brightness of fresh citrus.

Tips

Use cold butter for a crunchier crumble texture. Line your baking dish with parchment paper to make lifting and slicing easier. For extra flavor, you can add a hint of vanilla extract to the filling. Bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for 2 months.

Health Benefits

Lemons are rich in vitamin C, which helps strengthen the immune system and promotes healthy skin. The zest contains natural antioxidants that support overall health. While this dessert is indulgent, it offers a refreshing way to enjoy the benefits of citrus. The balance of fat and carbohydrates also makes it a satisfying treat in moderation, providing quick energy and a mood boost.