Lemon Strawberry Crumb Bars Recipe

Indulge your senses with the delightful flavors of Lemon Strawberry Crumb Bars. This recipe combines the tartness of fresh lemons with the sweetness of strawberries, all encased in a buttery crumb crust. Perfect for dessert or a midday treat, these bars are sure to impress! Read on for the complete guide, tips, and tricks to make this delectable treat.

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What are “Lemon Strawberry Crumb Bars”?

Lemon Strawberry Crumb Bars are a delightful dessert that features a sweet and tangy lemon filling layered between a buttery crumb crust and crumb topping. The vibrant flavors make them a refreshing choice for any occasion. Easy to make and perfect for sharing, these bars are an excellent addition to your dessert repertoire.

Ingredients List for Lemon Strawberry Crumb Bars

For the Crust and Topping:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup rolled oats
• ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted (2 sticks)

For the Lemon Strawberry Filling:

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg

Substitutions and Variations

• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
• Sweeteners: Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or honey for a different flavor profile.
• Fruit Variations: Use raspberries or blueberries in place of strawberries for a different berry flavor.
• Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter and a flax egg instead of the regular egg.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

How to Cook Lemon Strawberry Crumb Bars: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking for your bars.
2. Prepare the Pan: Line a 9x9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.
3. Make the Crust: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, salt, and baking powder. Pour in the melted butter and mix until crumbly.
4. Press the Mixture: Take half of the crumb mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. This will form your crust.
5. Prepare the Filling: In another bowl, combine the diced strawberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and egg. Stir until well mixed.
6. Add the Filling: Pour the strawberry lemon mixture over the crust, spreading it evenly.
7. Top with Crumb Mixture: Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the filling evenly.
8. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
9. Cool: Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool in the pan on a wire rack. This cooling process helps set the filling.
10. Cut and Serve: Once completely cool, lift the bars out using the parchment paper overhang and cut into squares.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the Crust: Mixing the butter too much can lead to a tough crust. Aim for a crumbly texture.
• Underbaking: Make sure the bars are fully set before removing them from the oven. The filling should be bubbly.
• Not Cooling Completely: Cutting too soon can result in a messy presentation. Let the bars cool completely to set the filling.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Lemon Strawberry Crumb Bars

• Serving Temperature: These bars can be enjoyed chilled, at room temperature, or even slightly warmed.
• Pairing Suggestions: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.

Presentation Ideas for Lemon Strawberry Crumb Bars

• Plating: Serve on a decorative plate with fresh strawberries and lemon slices for a pop of color.
• Dusting: A light dusting of powdered sugar on top adds elegance.
• Garnish: Fresh mint leaves can add a refreshing touch to your presentation.

Lemon Strawberry Crumb Bars Recipe Tips

• Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh strawberries and lemons for the best flavor.
• Chill Before Serving: Refrigerating the bars for a couple of hours before serving can enhance the flavors and make them easier to cut.
• Store Properly: Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I freeze Lemon Strawberry Crumb Bars?
A: Yes! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to three months.

Q: Can I use frozen strawberries?
A: Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid to prevent a soggy filling.

Q: How do I know when the bars are done baking?
A: The top should be golden brown, and the filling should be bubbly.

Q: Can I make these bars ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! They can be made a day in advance, making them perfect for gatherings.

Conclusion

Lemon Strawberry Crumb Bars are a delightful dessert that perfectly balances sweet and tart flavors. With a simple recipe and easy steps, you can create this crowd-pleaser in no time. Whether you're serving them at a family gathering or enjoying them as a personal treat, these bars are sure to be a hit. Try making them today, and savor the deliciousness!

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