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Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars

Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars for a Zesty Sweet Escape

These Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars feature a buttery crust and creamy lemon filling, making them a delightful dessert for any occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Cooling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 9 slices
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Oat Crust and Topping
  • 1 cup Unsalted Butter Provides richness and a buttery texture; margarine can be used for a dairy-free option.
  • 1 cup Brown Sugar Adds sweetness and moisture; coconut sugar can substitute for a lower glycemic index.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Enhances flavor; use pure vanilla for the best results.
  • 1 cup All-Purpose Flour Forms the base for the crust; a gluten-free flour blend can be used.
  • 1 teaspoon Baking Powder Helps the crust rise slightly; no substitutions needed.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt Balances sweetness; enhances overall flavors.
  • 2 cups Old-Fashioned Oats Adds chewiness and texture to the crust and topping; quick oats can be used but may soften the bars.
For the Lemon Filling
  • 1 can Sweetened Condensed Milk A key ingredient for a creamy lemon filling; evaporated milk may alter texture, so add sugar if desired.
  • 1/2 cup Lemon Juice Provides refreshing tanginess; bottled juice can substitute in a pinch, but fresh is preferred.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest Enhances lemon flavor; optional to omit for less dominant flavor.

Equipment

  • 8-inch square baking pan
  • mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • parchment paper

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.
  2. In a mixing bowl, beat together the unsalted butter and brown sugar until well combined. Add the vanilla extract, then fold in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and old-fashioned oats until crumbly. Reserve a little for topping.
  3. Press slightly more than half of the mixture firmly into the bottom of the baking pan. Bake for about 12 minutes until just beginning to turn golden.
  4. While the crust is baking, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a bowl until smooth.
  5. Once the crust is done, pour the lemon filling over it and spread evenly. Sprinkle the reserved crumble mixture over the top.
  6. Return the bars to the oven and bake for an additional 22-25 minutes, until edges are golden and center is set but slightly wobbly.
  7. Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature before lifting them out and cutting into squares.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 3gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 2gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week. They freeze well for up to 3 months.

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