Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars

Introduction

Have you ever wondered how a simple dessert can brighten your day and elevate a regular afternoon snack to something extraordinary? If you’re looking for a treat that’s both zesty and wholesome, look no further than Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars. These bars combine the tartness of fresh lemons with the hearty texture of oats, making them not only delicious but also satisfying. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your household!

Ingredients List

To make these delightful Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups rolled oats
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour for a heartier option)
• ½ cup brown sugar (or coconut sugar for a healthier alternative)
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (or coconut oil for a dairy-free option)
• 1 cup fresh lemon juice (approximately 3-4 lemons)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Timing

This recipe is not only delicious but also efficient, requiring just about 90 minutes from start to finish. This is a remarkable 20% less time than the average dessert recipe, which makes it perfect for those who want a quick yet impressive treat!

Preparation Time

20 minutes

Cooking Time

30-35 minutes

Total Time

90 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crumble Base

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Stir until evenly mixed. Pour in the melted butter and mix until the crumbly texture forms. Press half of this mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×9 inch baking pan.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Filling

In another bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt until smooth. This zesty mixture will offer a refreshing contrast to the oat base.

Step 3: Assemble the Bars

Pour the lemon filling over the pressed oat base in the baking pan. Evenly spread the remaining crumble mixture on top of the lemon filling, ensuring it covers the filling well.

Step 4: Bake the Bars

Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. The filling will set more as it cools, so don’t worry if it looks slightly wobbly when you take it out of the oven!

Nutritional Information

Each serving of these Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars is a delightful blend of taste and nutrition. Here’s a breakdown:

• Calories: 200
• Total Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 140mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 31g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 12g
• Protein: 3g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to make these bars even healthier without sacrificing flavor, consider these substitutions:

• Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free option.
• Swap granulated sugar with maple syrup or agave nectar to reduce refined sugars.
• Incorporate chia seeds or flaxseeds for added omega fatty acids.

Serving Suggestions

To serve, cut the Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars into squares and dust them lightly with powdered sugar for a decorative touch. These bars pair wonderfully with a scoop of yogurt or a drizzle of honey. For a refreshing twist, serve them with a side of fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing these bars, consider these common pitfalls:

• Not pressing the crumb mixture firmly enough can lead to a crumble that doesn’t hold together.
• Using bottled lemon juice instead of fresh juice can result in a bland taste.
• Overbaking can cause the filling to become too firm, so keep an eye on them in the oven.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To store any leftovers, let the bars cool completely before covering them with plastic wrap or placing them in an airtight container. These bars can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To enjoy them later, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes.

Conclusion

Delicious, zesty, and satisfying, Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars are a wonderful treat any time of the day. Try this recipe today and discover a delightful fusion of flavors that will have your friends and family asking for seconds! Don’t forget to share your feedback in the comments or subscribe for more scrumptious recipes and updates!

FAQs

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars can be made a day in advance, and they taste even better after chilling in the fridge for a few hours!

Do I need to use fresh lemons?

Using fresh lemons will significantly enhance the flavor of the bars. Bottled lemon juice lacks the brightness and freshness of real lemons.

Can I freeze Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars?

Yes, these bars freeze well! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months.

How can I adjust the sweetness of the recipe?

Feel free to decrease the sugar in both the crumble and the filling according to your preference. You can also substitute with natural sweeteners for a different flavor profile.

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