Ingredients
For the crumb base & topping:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp baking powder
3/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
1 tsp vanilla extract
For the lemon cream filling:
1 can (400 g) sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
Zest of 1 lemon
2 egg yolks
Instructions
Prepare the oven & pan
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a square baking pan (20×20 cm) with parchment paper for easy removal.
Make the crumb mixture
In a large bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, salt, and baking powder. Add melted butter and vanilla extract. Mix until you get a crumbly dough.
Form the base
Press about 2/3 of the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even layer.
Bake the base
Bake for 10–12 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.
Prepare the lemon filling
In another bowl, whisk together condensed milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and egg yolks until smooth and creamy.
Assemble the bars
Pour the lemon filling over the pre-baked crust and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture on top.
Final bake
Return to the oven and bake for 18–22 minutes until the top is lightly golden and the filling is set.
Cool and slice
Let the bars cool completely in the pan, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours for clean slices. Cut into squares before serving.
Tips for Perfect Bars
Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor—bottled juice won’t taste as bright.
Chill before cutting to get neat, bakery-style squares.
Don’t overbake; the center should still be slightly soft when removed—it will firm up as it cools.
For extra richness, add a pinch of salt to the lemon filling.
Variations
Orange Cream Bars: Replace lemon juice with fresh orange juice and zest.
Coconut Twist: Add 1/2 cup shredded coconut to the crumb mixture.
Berry Layer: Spread a thin layer of raspberry or strawberry jam between the crust and filling.
Lime Version: Use lime juice and zest for a tropical flavor.
Glazed Finish: Add a simple icing (powdered sugar + lemon juice) on top after cooling.
Serving Ideas
Serve chilled or at room temperature with tea, coffee, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. These bars are perfect for gatherings, snacks, or even gif
