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!
PrintZesty Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars: A Sweet and Tangy Delight
Delicious and tangy Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars, perfect for a sweet treat.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 squares 1x
Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease an 8×8 inch baking dish.
- Mix oats, flour, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
- Add butter, egg, lemon juice, and lemon zest; mix until crumbly.
- Press half of the mixture into the bottom of the baking dish.
- Bake for 15 minutes until slightly golden.
- Spread remaining mixture on top.
- Bake again for 15 minutes.
- Cool in the pan, cut into squares, and serve.
Notes
- For best flavor, use freshly squeezed lemon juice.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
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!