Creamy Lemon Bars

Creamy Lemon Bars have a special place in my heart. They remind me of sunny days spent in the kitchen, zesting lemons and mixing up a sweet, tangy concoction that dances on the palate. Each bite is a burst of freshness, perfectly balanced with the richness from the butter. I remember the first time I made them for a family gathering; the way everyone’s eyes lit up as they took the first bite was priceless. The addition of browned butter raspberries takes these bars to another level, adding a luxurious touch that complements the bright flavors of the lemon. Whether it’s a special occasion or a simple weeknight treat, Creamy Lemon Bars are always a hit. They’re not just dessert; they’re a celebration of flavor and texture that has the power to bring people together.

What You Need for Creamy Lemon Bars

To create these delightful Creamy Lemon Bars, you’ll need a combination of simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness essential for this dish. From the crispy base to the creamy filling and the fresh raspberries, every ingredient enhances the overall experience.

• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, finely crushed into crumbs (about 1 1/2 to 2 cups crushed crackers) – The buttery flavor of the Ritz crackers creates a deliciously crunchy crust that serves as the perfect base for the creamy filling.
• 6 tablespoons salted butter, melted – This rich ingredient adds moisture and flavor to the crust, making it irresistible.
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar – A touch of sweetness that enhances the flavor of the crust and complements the lemon filling.
• 1 large egg + 2 large egg yolks – These provide structure and richness to the creamy filling, giving it a smooth texture.
• 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk – This key ingredient creates the creamy texture and sweetness that makes these bars special.
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest – This adds an intense lemon flavor that brightens the filling.
• 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice, preferably from Meyer lemons – The star ingredient that imparts tanginess and freshness to the bars.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – A hint of sweetness to round out the flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• 4 tablespoons salted butter – Used for the raspberries, it adds richness and a nutty flavor when browned.
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest – Extra zest to elevate the flavor of the topping.
• 1 1/2 cups fresh raspberries – The perfect tart contrast to the sweet filling, making each bite a delight.

Putting Together Creamy Lemon Bars

Creating Creamy Lemon Bars is a straightforward yet rewarding process. With each step, you’ll see how the ingredients come together to form a delightful dessert. Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions to make this treat.

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Prepare an 8×8 inch square baking dish by lining it with parchment paper. This step ensures that your bars come out easily and helps them maintain a nice shape.

2. In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers, melted butter, and brown sugar. Mix thoroughly until the crumbs are evenly coated with butter. You want this mixture to resemble wet sand.

3. Press this crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Make sure it’s evenly distributed and nicely compacted. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the crust is light golden on top. You should see a slight bubbling around the edges.

4. While the crust is baking, whisk together the egg and egg yolks in a medium mixing bowl. Add the sweetened condensed milk, lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla, and salt. Whisk until all the ingredients are well combined and smooth. The mixture should be creamy and slightly thickened.

5. Once the crust is done, remove it from the oven and pour the lemon filling over the hot crust. Spread it out evenly with a spatula. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15 to 17 minutes. The filling should be just set, with a slight jiggle in the center when you shake the pan.

6. After baking, allow the bars to cool in the pan for a few minutes and then transfer them to the refrigerator. Chill for at least two hours, or preferably overnight. This helps the filling to firm up and makes slicing much easier.

7. When you’re ready to cut the bars, take them out of the fridge. Use a sharp knife to slice them into squares. They should be firm yet creamy, holding their shape well.

8. Now, it’s time to prepare the browned butter raspberries. In a skillet set over medium heat, add the butter. Allow it to brown lightly, stirring often, until it smells nutty and is a beautiful golden color, about two minutes.

9. Remove the skillet from the heat, and stir in the lemon zest. Gently toss the fresh raspberries in the browned butter until they are lightly coated. Spoon the mixture over the chilled lemon bars just before serving. The warmth of the butter with the cool bars is a heavenly combination.

10. These Creamy Lemon Bars can be kept chilled in the fridge for up to four days, but I doubt they’ll last that long!

Tips for Success

To ensure your Creamy Lemon Bars turn out perfectly, I’ve gathered some essential tips. These will help you navigate the recipe with ease and achieve the best results possible.

• Storage: The bars should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to four days, making them a great make-ahead dessert.
• Freezing: You can freeze the lemon bars for up to three months. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
• Pairing: These bars pair wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess complements the tartness beautifully.
• Variations: Feel free to experiment with different fruits as toppings. Blueberries or strawberries would also work well with the lemon filling.
• Serving Size: Cut the bars into small squares for a perfect bite-sized treat that’s ideal for gatherings.

Side Dish Ideas for Creamy Lemon Bars

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing side that complements the tartness of the bars, enhancing the overall dessert experience.
• Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla or lemon sorbet for a creamy contrast to the tangy bars.
• Mint Tea: A herbal mint tea or iced tea can be a refreshing beverage choice alongside the dessert.
• Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can provide a savory balance to the sweetness of the Creamy Lemon Bars.
• Summer Gatherings: These bars are perfect for summer picnics or parties, where their bright flavor can shine.
• Brunch Option: They can be a delightful addition to brunch, offering a sweet finish after a savory spread.

FAQ

Conclusion

Creamy Lemon Bars are a delightful dessert that balances creamy richness with refreshing tartness. Their unique combination of flavors and textures makes them an unforgettable treat. I encourage you to try making these bars yourself; they’re surprisingly easy and incredibly rewarding. You’ll love indulging in this sweet, tangy dessert!

Creamy Lemon Bars

The perfect blend of creamy and tangy, Creamy Lemon Bars will satisfy your sweet tooth. With a buttery crust and a luscious filling topped with browned butter raspberries, this easy dessert is a must-try. Ideal for any occasion, you won't be able to resist making it tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers finely crushed into crumbs (about 1 1/2 to 2 cups crushed crackers)
• 6 tablespoons salted butter melted
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest
• 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice preferably from Meyer lemons
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 4 tablespoons salted butter
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 1/2 cups fresh raspberries

Equipment

• Oven
• Baking Sheet
• Skillet
• Frying Pan
• Wooden Spoon
• Whisk
• Mixing Bowl

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Prepare an 8×8 inch square baking dish by lining it with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers, melted butter, and brown sugar. Mix thoroughly until the crumbs are evenly coated with butter.
3. Press this crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes.
4. While the crust is baking, whisk together the egg and egg yolks. Add the sweetened condensed milk, lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla, and salt.
5. Once the crust is done, pour the lemon filling over the hot crust and return to the oven.
6. After baking, allow the bars to cool in the pan for a few minutes and then transfer them to the refrigerator.
7. When you're ready to cut the bars, take them out of the fridge. Use a sharp knife to slice them into squares.
8. Now, it’s time to prepare the browned butter raspberries. In a skillet set over medium heat, add the butter.
9. Remove the skillet from the heat, and stir in the lemon zest. Gently toss the fresh raspberries in the browned butter.
10. These Creamy Lemon Bars can be kept chilled in the fridge for up to four days.

Notes

No extra notes available.

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Meet Margot Vance

Founding Savor Feasts was my way of celebrating the art of generous cooking. I believe that food should be abundant, flavorful, and memorable. I personally cook, test, and photograph our recipes to ensure they bring a sense of occasion to your table, whether it is a simple dinner or a grand holiday celebration.