Lemon Pie Bars

There’s something undeniably refreshing about Lemon Pie Bars. When I first tried them at a friend’s gathering, I was immediately captivated by their bright, zesty flavor and creamy texture. The burst of lemon brings a memory of sunny spring days, even when the weather doesn’t cooperate. Every bite is like a little piece of happiness. I’ve made these bars for family gatherings, potlucks, and even as a simple treat for myself after a long week. They’re the perfect balance of sweet and tart, and I love serving them chilled—there’s just something about the coolness that makes them even more delightful. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to whip up! The best part? You can make them ahead of time, so they’re perfect for any occasion!

Ingredients to Make Lemon Pie Bars

To create the magic of Lemon Pie Bars, you need a few key ingredients that work harmoniously together. The bright and tart lemon pie filling forms the star of this dish, while the buttery crust and sweet glaze create a delightful contrast. Each component is essential, ensuring that the bars are as flavorful as they are satisfying.

• 1 cup butter softened – The base that adds richness and helps create a tender crust.
• 2 cups sugar – Sweetens the mixture and balances the tartness of the lemon.
• 4 eggs – Provides structure and helps bind the ingredients.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavors with its warm notes.
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract – Adds a subtle, nutty flavor that complements the lemon.
• 3 cups flour – Forms the base of the crust, giving it structure and stability.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• 2 cans 15.75 oz Duncan Hines Wilderness lemon pie filling – The main ingredient that brings the zesty goodness.
• 1 cup powdered sugar – Used for the glaze, adding a smooth sweetness.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract – For the glaze, adding a touch of flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract – Additional flavor dimension for the glaze.
• 2 tablespoons milk – To create a smooth glaze consistency.

Putting Together Lemon Pie Bars

Making Lemon Pie Bars is a simple and enjoyable process. Follow these steps to create these delightful treats that are sure to impress your friends and family.

1. Start by creaming together butter and sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about three to five minutes. You should see a significant change in texture, and the color will lighten. This step is essential as it incorporates air into the batter, helping your bars to rise nicely.
2. Next, add in the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. You should notice the mixture becoming smoother and slightly thicker. This is crucial for the right consistency, as the eggs help bind everything together.
3. Mix in the vanilla extract and almond extract. The combination of these extracts will add depth to the flavor profile, enriching the overall taste of your bars.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add this to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix. You want your batter to be smooth but still retain some air. You should have a thick batter that holds its shape.
5. Now, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (about 175 degrees Celsius). Prepare a greased jelly roll pan by lining it with parchment paper for easy removal of the bars later.
6. Spread three cups of the batter evenly in the prepared pan. It should be a nice, even layer that covers the bottom completely.
7. Next, spread the lemon pie filling on top of the batter. This can be done with a spatula for a smooth finish. Make sure it’s evenly distributed; this will create a lovely tart layer that contrasts beautifully with the sweet batter.
8. Using the remaining batter, drop spoonfuls over the top of the lemon pie filling. This doesn’t have to be perfect, as it will spread a little while baking, but aim for a nice distribution to allow for a beautiful, textured top.
9. Now, place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be lightly golden and firm to the touch, not jiggly.
10. Once baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan. After cooling, you can make the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Drizzle this over the cooled bars for a sweet finish. For the best texture, if you’re serving the next day, wait to glaze them until just before serving so they don’t get soggy.
11. Finally, cut into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy the delightful burst of flavor in every bite of your Lemon Pie Bars!

Customization Ideas

Customizing your Lemon Pie Bars can be a fun way to create your unique twist on this classic dessert. Here are some ideas to inspire you!

• Add Berries: Consider folding in some fresh blueberries or raspberries into the batter before baking for an added burst of flavor.
• Coconut Twist: Sprinkle some shredded coconut on top of the filling before adding the remaining batter for a tropical flair.
• Chocolate Drizzle: For a unique combination, drizzle melted chocolate over the glaze for a contrasting flavor.
• Lemon Zest: Add some fresh lemon zest to the batter for an extra zing of lemon flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour to make these bars suitable for a gluten-sensitive diet.
• Different Extracts: Play with different extracts like lemon or orange for a citrusy variation.
• Nutty Add-Ins: Fold in some chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for added texture and flavor.

What to Serve With Lemon Pie Bars

When it comes to serving Lemon Pie Bars, there are plenty of options to elevate your dessert experience. Here are some ideas:

• Fresh Berries: Pair your bars with a side of fresh mixed berries such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. Their natural sweetness complements the tangy lemon beautifully.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream enhances the bars’ taste, providing a creamy contrast to the tartness.
• Iced Tea: Serve with a refreshing glass of iced tea. A hint of mint or lemon in the tea can pair excellently with the bars.
• Light Salads: Consider serving these bars after a light salad. A simple mixed greens salad with a vinaigrette can refresh the palate before enjoying dessert.
• Special Occasions: These bars are perfect for celebrations like family reunions, birthdays, or even casual summer get-togethers. They can be a delightful ending to any meal.
• Seasonal Pairings: During spring, you could incorporate floral elements in your table setting, like edible flowers, to enhance the seasonal vibe of your Lemon Pie Bars.

FAQ

Conclusion

Lemon Pie Bars are a superbly refreshing treat that balances sweet and tart flavors beautifully. With their creamy texture and delightful lemony taste, they’re a dessert worth trying. I encourage you to whip up a batch, share them with loved ones, and relish in the smiles they bring. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy this simple yet elegant dessert!

Lemon Pie Bars

The ultimate refreshing treat, Lemon Pie Bars combine creamy, zesty lemon flavors with a buttery crust. Perfect for any occasion, these easy-to-make bars are sure to impress your family and friends!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Servings 20 servings

Calories 290 kcal

Equipment

• Frying Pan
• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup butter softened
• 2 cups sugar
• 4 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
• 3 cups flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cans Duncan Hines Wilderness lemon pie filling 15.75 oz each
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract for glaze
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract for glaze
• 2 tablespoons milk for glaze

Instructions

 

• Start by creaming together butter and sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about three to five minutes. You should see a significant change in texture, and the color will lighten. This step is essential as it incorporates air into the batter, helping your bars to rise nicely.
• Next, add in the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. You should notice the mixture becoming smoother and slightly thicker. This is crucial for the right consistency, as the eggs help bind everything together.
• Mix in the vanilla extract and almond extract. The combination of these extracts will add depth to the flavor profile, enriching the overall taste of your bars.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add this to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix. You want your batter to be smooth but still retain some air. You should have a thick batter that holds its shape.
• Now, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (about 175 degrees Celsius). Prepare a greased jelly roll pan by lining it with parchment paper for easy removal of the bars later.
• Spread three cups of the batter evenly in the prepared pan. It should be a nice, even layer that covers the bottom completely.
• Next, spread the lemon pie filling on top of the batter. This can be done with a spatula for a smooth finish. Make sure it’s evenly distributed; this will create a lovely tart layer that contrasts beautifully with the sweet batter.
• Using the remaining batter, drop spoonfuls over the top of the lemon pie filling. This doesn’t have to be perfect, as it will spread a little while baking, but aim for a nice distribution to allow for a beautiful, textured top.
• Now, place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be lightly golden and firm to the touch, not jiggly.
• Once baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan. After cooling, you can make the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Drizzle this over the cooled bars for a sweet finish. For the best texture, if you’re serving the next day, wait to glaze them until just before serving so they don’t get soggy.
• Finally, cut into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy the delightful burst of flavor in every bite of your Lemon Pie Bars!

Notes

• Storage: Store any leftovers in the refrigerator to maintain their texture and freshness.
• Freezing: You can freeze these bars for up to two months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly.
• Variations: Experiment with different extracts or add-ins to create your version of these bars!

Keyword easy lemon dessert, homemade lemon bars, Lemon Pie Bars recipe, refreshing pie bars

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Meet Olivia Bennett

For me, cooking is about connection. Whether I’m making a quick breakfast or a three course dinner, I focus on the feeling the food gives you. I love the entire process of food blogging, from chopping the first onion to adjusting the lighting for the final photo. I’m the one who reminds the team to slow down and really taste the food as we go, ensuring every recipe has that “home-cooked” warmth.