Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both comforting and refreshing, these Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars are just what you need! With their zesty lemon filling and crunchy oat topping, they strike the perfect balance between sweet and tangy. I love making this recipe when I have friends over or for a family gathering because everyone can’t get enough of them!
These delightful bars are also super simple to whip up, making them an ideal treat for busy weeknights. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want something to brighten your day, these luscious Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars will surely bring a smile to your face.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make: With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have these bars ready in no time!
- Family-friendly: Kids love the sweet and sour flavor, making them a hit with all ages.
- Make-ahead goodness: Bake a batch ahead of time and store them for quick snacks or dessert.
- Versatile treat: Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a lovely after-dinner dessert.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars use simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to create this deliciously tangy treat:
For the Crust and Topping
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup coconut oil (melted)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Lemon Filling
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric (for color)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Variations
This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to customize it to your taste! Here are some fun variations to consider:
- Add some berries: Toss in some fresh blueberries or raspberries for extra flavor and color.
- Switch up the zest: Experiment with different citrus zests like lime or orange for a unique twist.
- Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free oats and flour to cater to dietary restrictions.
- Top with nuts: Sprinkle some chopped nuts on top of the crumble for added crunch.
How to Make Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
First up, we’ll make the crust. In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, melted coconut oil, and salt. Mix until crumbly. This crust is not only buttery but also provides that perfect foundation for our lemon filling.
Step 2: Press into Pan
Next, press about two-thirds of the mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased baking pan. It’s important to pack it down firmly so that it holds together during baking. The remaining crumble will be used as our topping later!
Step 3: Make the Lemon Filling
In a separate bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, granulated sugar, cornstarch, turmeric, and vanilla extract until smooth. This filling is where all that tangy goodness comes from! Pour it over the crust in the pan.
Step 4: Add Topping and Bake
Now sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture over the lemon filling evenly. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 38 minutes or until golden brown on top. The aroma will fill your kitchen and leave everyone eagerly waiting!
Step 5: Cool and Cut
Once baked, let your bars cool completely before cutting them into squares. This helps set everything nicely so you can enjoy perfect slices! Trust me; they taste even better after chilling in the fridge for an hour.
Enjoy every bite of these delightful Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars—your friends and family will thank you!
Pro Tips for Making Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars
Creating the perfect Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars is easier than you think! Here are some tips to ensure your bars turn out delicious every time.
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Use fresh lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest will give your bars a vibrant flavor that bottled lemon juice simply can’t match. The freshness enhances the tanginess and brightness of the dish.
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Chill the filling: After mixing your lemon filling, let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before pouring it over the crust. This helps it set better and creates a smoother texture once baked.
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Don’t skip the parchment paper: Line your baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal. This simple step prevents sticking and makes cutting into neat squares much easier.
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Check for doneness: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your bars as they bake. They should be lightly golden on top, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
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Let them cool completely: Although it’s tempting to dig in right away, allow your bars to cool completely before cutting. This ensures they hold their shape and makes for cleaner slices.
How to Serve Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars
These delightful Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars are not only tasty but also visually appealing! Here are some fun ideas to present this scrumptious dessert.
Garnishes
- Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar on top gives a beautiful finish and adds a touch of sweetness.
- Lemon zest: Sprinkle some freshly grated lemon zest over the bars just before serving for an extra burst of lemony aroma and color.
Side Dishes
- Vanilla coconut yogurt: The creamy texture and mild sweetness of vanilla coconut yogurt complement the tangy lemon perfectly while adding a dairy-free option.
- Fresh berries: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the crumble bars, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
- Herbal tea: A warm cup of chamomile or mint tea pairs beautifully with these bars, offering a soothing balance to their zesty flavor.
- Ice cream alternative: For a delightful twist, serve alongside dairy-free ice cream or sorbet. The cold treat contrasts nicely with the warm crumbly texture of the bars.
Enjoy making these delightful Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars! They’re sure to be a hit at any gathering or simply as a sweet treat during your afternoon break.
Make Ahead and Storage
These Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time and store them for later, making them a fantastic treat for busy days or gatherings.
Storing Leftovers
- Keep the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer freshness, refrigerate them, which will keep them good for about a week.
Freezing
- Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label the bag with the date!
Reheating
- To enjoy your bars warm, microwave one for about 10-15 seconds.
- Alternatively, you can reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
FAQs
You may have some questions about making these delightful Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars. Here are some answers!
Can I use gluten-free oats for Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars?
Absolutely! Gluten-free oats work perfectly in this recipe. Just ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free to maintain the recipe’s integrity.
How do I know when my Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars are done?
Your bars should be golden brown on top and set around the edges. A slight jiggle in the center is okay; they will firm up as they cool.
Can I substitute the lemon juice in Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars?
Yes! You can use lime juice or another citrus juice if you prefer a different flavor profile. Just remember that it will alter the taste slightly.
How long do Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars last?
When stored properly, they can last up to a week in the fridge or 3 months in the freezer, making them great for meal prep!
Final Thoughts
I hope you find joy in making these Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars as much as I do! They’re not just a treat; they’re a delightful way to brighten your day with their zesty flavor and comforting texture. Enjoy sharing them with friends and family or savoring them all by yourself—either way, you’re in for a real treat! Happy baking!
Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 38 minutes
- Total Time: 53 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars are the perfect blend of zesty freshness and comforting crunch. With a delightful lemon filling nestled between a buttery oat crust and topping, these bars are ideal for any occasion—from family gatherings to quiet afternoons at home. Simple to make and irresistibly delicious, they become a hit among both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to brighten your day or a dessert to impress guests, these Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars will not disappoint.
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup melted coconut oil
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, melted coconut oil, and salt until crumbly.
- Press two-thirds of the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- In another bowl, whisk together lemon juice, granulated sugar, cornstarch, turmeric, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour over the crust.
- Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture over the lemon filling evenly.
- Bake for about 38 minutes or until golden brown on top.
- Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (50g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
