Lemon Crumb Bars Recipe (Bar Cookie)
This lemon crumb bars recipe uses a buttery crumb-style base topped with a smooth lemon-and-sweetened condensed milk layer. The ingredients are simple and the how to make steps are easy to follow, so you can chill, slice, and serve neat little bars.
Ingredients
1. For the crumb base
2. For the lemon topping
Step-by-Step Method
Preheat and prep the pan
Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a square baking pan or line it with parchment so the bars lift out easily.
Mix the crumb base
Combine the melted butter and melted margarine in a bowl. Stir until the mixture looks even and glossy.
Press and pre-bake
Spread the mixture in the pan and press it down into an even layer. Bake for about 10–12 minutes to set the base lightly.
Whisk the lemon topping
In another bowl, whisk the egg briefly. Add the sweetened condensed milk and stir until smooth, then mix in the lemon juice until fully combined.
Pour and level
Pour the lemon mixture over the warm base and gently level it to the edges so it bakes evenly.
Bake until set
Bake for about 45 minutes. The top should look set; the center can still have a slight jiggle when you nudge the pan.
Cool, chill, and slice
Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour before cutting. Use a sharp knife and wipe it between cuts for cleaner squares.