Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars

If you’re looking for a dessert that brings a burst of sunshine to your table, look no further than these delightful Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars. They are the perfect blend of tangy lemon and buttery oats, making them an irresistible treat. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, these bars will surely impress everyone. Plus, they are so simple to make that you’ll want to whip them up again and again!

These Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars have become a beloved recipe in my home. There’s something special about the creamy lemon filling paired with the crunchy oatmeal topping that just hits the spot. Trust me; once you try them, you’ll understand why they have a permanent place in my recipe collection!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you’ll have a delicious dessert ready in no time!
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves the sweet and tangy flavor combo, making it a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare these bars in advance for gatherings or busy weeks, and enjoy them any time.
• Versatile: Perfect for any occasion—picnics, potlucks, or even just a cozy night at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars are made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need to create this tasty 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 lemon juice (freshly squeezed if possible)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric (for color)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add some zest: Mix in the zest of one lemon for an extra zing in the filling.
• Try different fruits: Swap out some lemon juice for berry puree or apple sauce for a new twist on flavor.
• Go nutty: Add chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts to the crumble topping for added crunch.
• Sweeten it up: Substitute some of the granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different kind of sweetness.

How to Make Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. This step ensures that your bars come out easily after baking.

Step 2: Make the Crust and Topping Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, melted coconut oil, and salt. Stir until everything is well combined. This mixture will serve as both your crust and topping! Press half of this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. It creates a sturdy base for our luscious filling.

Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Filling

In another bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice, granulated sugar, cornstarch, turmeric, and baking powder until smooth. Pour this zesty mix over the crust layer in your baking dish. It’s important to mix well here; you want every bite packed with that refreshing lemon goodness!

Step 4: Add the Remaining Crumble

Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture evenly over the top of the lemon filling. Don’t worry if it doesn’t cover every bit—some gaps are totally fine! This will create that delicious crumble topping as it bakes.

Step 5: Bake & Cool

Bake in your preheated oven for about 38 minutes or until golden brown on top. Once done, let them cool completely before slicing into bars. This cooling period helps everything set nicely so you can enjoy perfect squares!

Now you’re ready to slice into these delightful Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars! Each bite is sure to brighten your day!

Pro Tips for Making Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars

Making these Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars is a breeze, but a few handy tips can elevate your baking game!

• Use fresh lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice will provide the brightest flavor compared to bottled varieties, making your filling extra zesty and delicious.

• Chill the bars before cutting: Allowing the bars to cool completely in the fridge before slicing helps the filling set properly, ensuring you get clean edges and perfect squares.

• Opt for rolled oats: Using old-fashioned rolled oats instead of instant oats gives your crumble a heartier texture and enhances the overall flavor of the bars.

• Taste as you go: Don’t hesitate to adjust the sweetness of your lemon filling. If you prefer a sweeter dessert, add a little more sweetener until it suits your taste.

• Store properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness. These bars can last up to a week (if they last that long!).

How to Serve Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars

These Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars are not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving! Here are some delightful ideas for presentation and pairing.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar on top adds a touch of elegance and sweetness.
• Lemon zest: Sprinkling some freshly grated lemon zest over the top provides a pop of color and enhances that citrus aroma.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream complements the tangy lemon flavor perfectly, making for a refreshing contrast.
• Greek yogurt: A dollop of plain or flavored Greek yogurt adds creaminess and pairs beautifully with the tartness of the bars.
• Fresh berries: Serve with a mix of strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of freshness that balances out the rich flavors.
• Herbal tea: Pairing these bars with a cup of chamomile or mint tea creates a cozy experience that’s perfect for afternoon snacks or dessert.

Enjoy your baking adventure with these delightful Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars! They’re sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars are perfect for meal prep, making them an ideal treat to have on hand throughout the week. You can whip up a batch in advance and enjoy them whenever you crave a delightful dessert.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Cut the bars into squares before freezing for easy portioning.
• Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label your containers!

Reheating

• If you’d like a warm treat, reheat the bars in a microwave-safe dish for about 15-20 seconds.
• Alternatively, you can pop them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars that might help you!

Can I substitute ingredients in the Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars recipe?

Absolutely! You can use gluten-free oats if you’re looking for a gluten-free option. Additionally, maple syrup or agave can replace honey if you prefer a vegan alternative.

How long do Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars last?

When stored properly, these bars last up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the fridge. If frozen, they maintain their quality for about 3 months.

Are Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars suitable for kids?

Yes! These bars are kid-friendly with their tangy lemon flavor and sweet crumble topping. They make a great snack or dessert option that kids will love!

What’s the best way to serve Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars?

These bars are delicious served chilled or slightly warmed. You can also pair them with fresh berries or a scoop of dairy-free ice cream for an extra special treat!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find as much joy in making these Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars as I do! Their tangy flavor and delightful texture make them truly special—perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying all by yourself. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s bound to brighten your day! Happy baking!