Zesty Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars: A Sweet and Tangy Delight

Introduction

Welcome to the world of Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars, where zesty meets sweet! If you are looking for a treat that’s perfectly balanced and delicious, you’ve come to the right place. These bars offer a delightful crunch from oats and a tangy burst from lemons, making them a fantastic snack or dessert option. Plus, they are easy to make, which means more time for you to enjoy your creation!

Ingredients

Gathering your ingredients is the first step towards making these scrumptious Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars. Here’s what you need:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
• 2 tablespoons lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 egg

Timing

Now that you have your ingredients, let’s talk timing. Here’s how long each step will take:

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Trust me, the wait will be worth it!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Time to bring these Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars to life! Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a perfect bake!

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Next, grease an 8×8 inch baking dish. You want your bars to come out easily after baking.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix well!

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Now, add the softened butter, egg, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Use your hands to mix everything until crumbly.

Step 5: Layer the Mixture

Press half of the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This will be your base.

Step 6: Bake the Base

Bake the base for 15 minutes. It should be slightly golden when done.

Step 7: Add the Topping

Spread the remaining crumble mixture over the top. Make sure it’s even!

Step 8: Bake Again

Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes. Your kitchen will smell amazing!

Step 9: Cool and Cut

Allow the bars to cool in the pan. Once cooled, cut into squares and serve. Enjoy!

Nutritional Information

Eating these Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars can be a guilt-free pleasure! Here’s what you can expect per serving:

• Calories: 180
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Protein: 3g
• Sugar: 5g

Healthier Alternatives

If you want to lighten things up, consider these alternatives:

• Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour.
• Replace butter with coconut oil or applesauce.
• Try using honey or maple syrup instead of sugar.

Serving Suggestions

Wondering how to serve these bars? Here are some delightful ideas:

• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream on top.
• Enjoy with a hot cup of tea or coffee.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best chefs make mistakes! Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Using old oats can affect texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately can alter the flavor.
• Skipping the cooling time can lead to mushy bars.

Storage Tips

Want to save some bars for later? Follow these storage tips:

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the bars for up to 3 months.
• To thaw, leave them in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars are a delightful treat that combines sweet and tangy flavors. They are simple to make and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack or dessert, these bars are sure to please!

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FAQs

Can I use gluten-free oats?

Absolutely! Just make sure to use certified gluten-free oats for a safe option.

How long do these bars last?

They can last up to 3 days at room temperature or 3 months in the freezer.

Can I add other fruits?

Yes! Blueberries or raspberries can add extra flavor and color.

Final Thoughts

Now that you have the recipe for Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars, why not give it a try? With their zesty flavor and crunchy texture, they are sure to become a household favorite. Happy baking!