These Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars are a delightful treat that perfectly balances tangy lemon flavor with a buttery oatmeal crust. They are great for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a picnic, or just a cozy night in. With their smooth lemon filling and generous crumble topping, these bars are sure to impress anyone who tries them!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
Tangy Flavor: The bright lemon filling adds a refreshing twist that elevates these bars above traditional desserts.
Versatile Dessert: Serve them as a sweet snack, dessert after dinner, or even for breakfast with your morning coffee.
Make Ahead: These bars can be made in advance and stored, making them an ideal option for busy weekdays or entertaining guests.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline the process and ensure your bars turn out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowls
Measuring cups and spoons
Baking dish (9×13 inch)
Whisk
Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowls: These allow you to combine ingredients easily without making a mess.
Baking dish: A 9×13 inch dish provides ample space for baking the bars evenly.

Ingredients

For the Crust and Topping

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar
2 cups rolled oats
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Lemon Filling

1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
Zest of 2 lemons
1/4 cup all-purpose flour

How to Make Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bars bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust and Topping

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add in the rolled oats, flour, and salt. Stir until well combined.
Press half of this mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish to form the crust.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Filling

In another bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, and flour until smooth.
Pour this lemon mixture over the crust in the baking dish.

Step 4: Add Topping and Bake

Crumble the remaining oat mixture evenly over the lemon filling.
Bake in preheated oven for about 38 minutes or until golden brown on top.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Allow your Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars to cool completely in the baking dish before cutting them into squares. Enjoy your refreshing dessert!

How to Serve Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars

Lemon oatmeal crumble bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just indulging at home, these serving suggestions will enhance your experience.

With Fresh Berries

Blueberries: A handful of fresh blueberries adds a pop of color and a sweet-tart flavor.
Raspberries: Their vibrant taste complements the lemon beautifully.
Strawberries: Sliced strawberries bring freshness and sweetness to each bite.

With Whipped Cream

Classic Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds creaminess that pairs well with the tangy lemon.
Flavored Whipped Cream: Try adding vanilla or citrus zest for an extra flavor twist.

As a Breakfast Treat

With Yogurt: Crumble some bars over Greek yogurt for a filling breakfast option.
Coffee Pairing: Enjoy the bars with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful morning pick-me-up.

Chilled

Refrigerated Bars: Serve chilled for an even more refreshing treat on hot days.

Dusted with Powdered Sugar

Sweet Finish: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch and extra sweetness.

How to Perfect Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars

To create the ultimate lemon oatmeal crumble bars, follow these helpful tips.

Use Fresh Lemons: Fresh lemon juice and zest provide the best flavor. Avoid bottled juice for optimal taste.
Chill Before Cutting: Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing. This helps maintain their shape and prevents crumbling.
Adjust Sweetness: Taste your lemon filling before baking. Adjust sugar levels to suit your preference for tartness.
Store Properly: Keep leftover bars in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars

Serving lemon oatmeal crumble bars alongside complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

Citrus Salad: A refreshing salad made with mixed citrus fruits provides a bright contrast to the sweetness of the bars.
Vanilla Ice Cream: This classic pairing offers creaminess that balances the tangy flavors perfectly.
Meringue Cookies: Light and airy meringues add an elegant touch with their delicate texture and sweetness.
Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses pairs well with the tangy notes of lemon for a gourmet experience.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling melted chocolate over the bars enhances their richness and adds depth to the flavor profile.
Nut Mixes: A crunchy nut mix can add texture and complement the soft bars wonderfully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars can be simple, but certain mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

Using stale oats: Always check the freshness of your oats. Stale oats can ruin the texture and flavor of your bars.
Overmixing the filling: When making the lemon filling, mix just until combined. Overmixing can cause air bubbles that affect the final texture.
Skipping the chill time: Allowing the bars to cool completely before slicing is crucial for clean edges. Don’t rush this step!
Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking requires precision. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups for best results.
Using too much lemon zest: While lemon zest adds flavor, too much can make the bars overly bitter. Stick to the recommended amount for a balanced taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
They will last up to one week in the fridge.

Freezing Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars

Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Place them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.

Reheating Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes.
Microwave: Heat each bar for 15-20 seconds until warm.
Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet on low heat, cover, and warm gently for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I substitute other fruits in these crumble bars?

Yes, you can use other fruits like blueberries or raspberries instead of lemon. Adjust sugar levels based on fruit sweetness.

How do I know when my bars are done baking?

The edges should be golden brown and the center slightly firm to the touch. A toothpick inserted should come out mostly clean.

Are Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars gluten-free?

You can make them gluten-free by using certified gluten-free oats and a suitable flour alternative.

Can I add nuts to my Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars?

Absolutely! Chopped pecans or walnuts can add a nice crunch. Just fold them into the crumble topping.

Final Thoughts

These Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with various fruits or nuts to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how easy and satisfying it is!

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Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars

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Author: Cara
Total Time: 53 minutes
Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful harmony of tangy and sweet with these Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars. Each bite offers a luscious lemon filling nestled between a buttery oatmeal crust and crumble topping, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, enjoying a picnic, or simply treating yourself at home, these bars promise to impress. Quick to prepare and easy to store, they are perfect for busy days or unexpected guests. Elevate your dessert game and enjoy the refreshing citrus flavor that makes these bars a standout choice in your recipe repertoire.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup unsalted butter
1 cup brown sugar
2 cups rolled oats
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
Zest of 2 lemons
1/4 cup all-purpose flour

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add rolled oats, flour, and salt; mix well.
Press half of the oat mixture into the bottom of the prepared dish to form the crust.
In another bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, and flour until smooth. Pour this over the crust.
Crumble remaining oat mixture over the lemon filling.
Bake for about 38 minutes or until golden brown on top. Let cool completely before cutting into squares.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 38 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American