2 Ingredient Lemon Bars

These 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars are a delightful treat that will brighten up any occasion. With just two simple ingredients, you can whip up these bars in no time. Their tangy lemon flavor and gooey texture make them the perfect dessert for family gatherings, picnics, or just a sweet snack at home. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply craving something citrusy, these bars are sure to impress with their vibrant taste and easy preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only two main ingredients, this recipe is incredibly simple to follow, making it perfect for beginners.
• Bright Flavor: Each bite bursts with refreshing lemon goodness, delivering the ultimate citrus punch that lemon lovers will adore.
• Versatile Serving Options: These lemon bars can be enjoyed as a dessert, snack, or even served at parties and potlucks.
• Minimal Cleanup: One bowl and a baking dish mean fewer dishes to wash—always a bonus in the kitchen!
• Customizable Toppings: Add powdered sugar for a touch of elegance or serve them plain for an effortless treat.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making these delicious lemon bars, it’s essential to have the right tools on hand. This will ensure your baking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking dish (9×13 inch)
• Whisk or spatula
• Wire rack
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl is crucial for mixing the batter evenly without spills.
• Baking dish: The right size ensures that your lemon bars bake evenly for the perfect texture.
• Whisk or spatula: These tools help combine your ingredients smoothly without overmixing.
• Wire rack: Cooling on a wire rack prevents sogginess by allowing air circulation around the bars.

Ingredients

These bars deliver the ultimate citrus punch. They’re bursting with bright, tangy lemon taste in every gooey bite.

For the Bars

• 1 box angel food cake mix (I used Duncan Hines)
• 1 can (21 oz) lemon pie filling

Optional Topping

• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

How to Make 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish generously with cooking spray or butter.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the angel food cake mix and lemon pie filling until just combined. Don’t overdo it; a few lumps are totally fine!

Step 3: Prepare for Baking

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.

Step 4: Bake

Bake for 25-30 minutes, until lightly golden on top and a toothpick comes out mostly clean.

Step 5: Cool Down

Let your lemon bars cool completely on a wire rack for about 1-2 hours. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Step 6: Serve

Once cooled, give them a nice dusting of powdered sugar if you’re feeling fancy. Then slice into squares and get ready to be wowed by the lemony goodness!

How to Serve 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars

Serving 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars can elevate your dessert experience. These bars are not only delicious on their own but can also be paired with various accompaniments to enhance their citrusy flavor.

With Fresh Berries

• Strawberries – Slice fresh strawberries and serve them alongside the bars for a juicy contrast.
• Blueberries – A handful of blueberries adds a pop of color and tartness that complements the lemon.

With Whipped Cream

• Homemade Whipped Cream – Lightly sweetened whipped cream provides a creamy texture that balances the tanginess of the lemon bars.
• Flavored Whipped Cream – Try infusing the whipped cream with vanilla or citrus zest for an extra layer of flavor.

With Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream – A scoop of vanilla ice cream melts beautifully atop the warm lemon bars, creating a delightful combination.
• Lemon Sorbet – For a refreshing twist, serve with lemon sorbet to accentuate the lemon flavor.

With Coffee or Tea

• Iced Tea – A glass of iced tea pairs perfectly with these bars, making it a refreshing afternoon treat.
• Espresso – For coffee lovers, espresso’s rich taste complements the sweet and tart notes of the lemon bars.

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How to Perfect 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars

To ensure your 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars turn out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh angel food cake mix and quality lemon pie filling will give you the best flavor.
• Don’t Overmix – Mixing just until combined helps retain a light texture; lumps are okay!
• Check for Doneness Early – Start checking your bars at 25 minutes to avoid overbaking.
• Cool Completely – Allowing them to cool fully before slicing ensures clean cuts and better presentation.

Best Side Dishes for 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars

Pairing side dishes with your 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and balances sweetness with acidity.
2. Cheese Platter – Soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese contrast nicely with the tartness of the lemon bars.
3. Nuts – A bowl of mixed nuts adds crunch and a savory touch that complements the sweet dessert.
4. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries – The richness of chocolate pairs beautifully with citrus flavors for a decadent treat.
5. Mini Muffins – Light muffins, such as blueberry or lemon poppy seed, provide a delightful variety in texture and taste.
6. Scones – Serve warm scones with clotted cream for an elegant touch alongside your lemon bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars can be a breeze, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense texture. Combine until just mixed; a few lumps are okay!
• Not greasing the pan: Failing to grease your baking dish can cause the bars to stick. Always ensure it’s well-greased for easy removal.
• Ignoring the cooling time: Cutting into bars too soon may result in a messy slice. Allow them to cool completely before serving.
• Underbaking or overbaking: Baking too short or long impacts texture. Keep an eye on them and use a toothpick for testing doneness.
• Skipping the powdered sugar: While optional, a dusting of powdered sugar enhances presentation and flavor. Don’t skip it if you want that extra touch!

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep in the fridge to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars

• Wrap bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place in an airtight container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual pieces for about 15-20 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars?

These bars are a simple dessert combining angel food cake mix and lemon pie filling, resulting in a tangy treat that’s quick to make.

Can I customize my 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars?

Absolutely! You can add zest from fresh lemons or mix in berries for added flavor. Experiment with different toppings too!

How do I know when my lemon bars are done?

Check for a light golden top and insert a toothpick; it should come out mostly clean with just a few crumbs.

Are there any alternatives to angel food cake mix?

Yes! You can try using other cake mixes like vanilla or yellow, but it will change the flavor profile slightly.

Final Thoughts

These 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Their bright citrus flavor makes them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize them with your favorite toppings or flavors. Try making this simple recipe today; you won’t be disappointed!