Lemon Drop Bars
Looking for a delightful dessert that dances on your taste buds with a zing of citrus? Look no further than these Lemon Drop Bars! These bars are the perfect combination of sweet and tangy, with a buttery graham cracker crust that complements the creamy lemon filling. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or just craving a bright treat, these bars will surely impress your family and friends. Ready to unleash your inner baker? Let’s dive into making these delightful Lemon Drop Bars!
What Sets This Recipe Apart
These Lemon Drop Bars are not just any lemon dessert; they are a luscious, sweet-tart treat that brings sunshine to your plate. The graham cracker crust adds a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy lemon filling. What truly sets this recipe apart is the use of fresh lemon juice and zest, which provides an intense lemon flavor that store-bought desserts just can’t match. Plus, the optional candied lemon zest takes these bars to a whole new level of gourmet deliciousness!
Your Shopping Guide
Before you start baking, make sure you have the following ingredients on hand:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs – For a buttery, crunchy base.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – This will sweeten your filling and crust.
- 6 tablespoons butter, melted – The crucial ingredient for binding the crust.
- 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk – For a creamy texture and a touch of sweetness.
- 5 egg yolks – The richness adds depth to the filling.
- ½ cup lemon juice – Freshly squeezed for the best flavor.
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest – To enhance that citrusy punch.
- Candied lemon zest (optional) – For an elegant garnish and extra flavor.
- Powdered sugar (optional) – A light dusting for presentation.
- 2 tablespoons key lime or lemon zest (optional) – If not making candied zest, fresh zest is also delicious.
Must-Have Equipment
Before you get started, gather these essential tools:
- 9×9 inch baking pan – The perfect size for your Lemon Drop Bars.
- Mixing bowls – For combining your crust and filling.
- Whisk – To thoroughly mix your ingredients.
- Rubber spatula – For scraping down the sides of your bowls and smoothing the filling.
- Microplane or zester – To zest your lemons with ease.
- Oven mitts – Safety first when handling hot pans!
Lemon Drop Bars — Do This Next
Now that you have everything ready, let’s get baking!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your bars bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup of granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until everything is well combined and resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of your greased baking pan to form an even crust.
Step 3: Bake the Crust
Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 4: Make the Filling
In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Step 5: Pour the Filling
Carefully pour the lemon filling over the baked crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Step 6: Bake Again
Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are slightly golden.
Step 7: Cool and Chill
Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the bars to set properly.
Step 8: Slice and Serve
Once chilled, dust the top with powdered sugar if desired and slice into squares. For a fun garnish, top with candied lemon zest or a sprinkle of fresh zest.
Tailor It to Your Diet
These Lemon Drop Bars can be easily modified to fit various dietary preferences:
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or almond flour for the crust.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with coconut oil or dairy-free margarine, and use coconut condensed milk for a dairy-free version.
- Reduced Sugar: Swap granulated sugar with a sugar substitute or use less sweetened condensed milk.
- Vegan: Use aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) instead of egg yolks and plant-based alternatives for butter and condensed milk.
Troubles You Can Avoid
Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them:
- Crust Crumbling: Ensure you press your graham cracker mixture firmly into the pan to avoid a crumbly crust.
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on the filling; it should be set but not overly dry.
- Too Tart: If you prefer a sweeter filling, adjust the amount of sugar in the filling to suit your taste.
- Sticking to the Pan: Grease your baking pan well or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Storage & Reheat Guide
To keep your Lemon Drop Bars fresh, follow these tips:
Store your bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They can also be frozen for up to three months, just ensure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
For serving, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight. You can also enjoy them straight from the fridge for a refreshing treat!
Ask & Learn
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
While fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch. Just be aware that the taste may not be as vibrant.
How do I know when the filling is set?
The filling should be firm to the touch and not jiggle when you gently shake the pan. It will continue to set as it cools in the refrigerator.
Can I add other flavors to the filling?
Absolutely! You can experiment by adding other citrus juices like lime or orange for a unique twist on the traditional lemon flavor.
What’s the best way to slice the bars?
For clean slices, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts. This helps prevent the filling from sticking to the knife.
Quick Weeknight Wins
If you love quick and easy desserts, check out these delightful recipes:
- Easy Chocolate Chip Cookies – A classic that never disappoints.
- Creamy Vanilla Pudding – Simple, delicious, and comforting.
- 30-Minute Vegan Chocolate Cake – A decadent treat that’s quick to whip up.
- Peanut Butter Brownies – The perfect combination of chocolate and peanut butter.
Bring It Home
These Lemon Drop Bars are a delightful way to brighten up your dessert table. Their perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, combined with the buttery graham cracker crust, makes them an irresistible treat. Whether you serve them at a gathering or enjoy them as a mid-week treat, you can’t go wrong with these bars. So gather your ingredients, channel your inner baker, and enjoy the zesty goodness of these Lemon Drop Bars!
Lemon Drop Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your bars bake evenly.
- Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup of granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until everything is well combined and resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of your greased baking pan to form an even crust.
- Step 3: Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
- Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Step 5: Carefully pour the lemon filling over the baked crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Step 6: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are slightly golden.
- Step 7: Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the bars to set properly.
- Step 8: Once chilled, dust the top with powdered sugar if desired and slice into squares. For a fun garnish, top with candied lemon zest or a sprinkle of fresh zest.
Notes
- Store your bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- They can also be frozen for up to three months, just ensure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.
- For clean slices, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts.
