Oatmeal Lemon Cream Bars

These easy Oatmeal Lemon Cream Bars are a perfect balance of sweet and tangy. With a creamy lemon filling nestled between two thick, crumbly oatmeal layers, these bars are ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering, a picnic, or simply indulging during the week, their delightful flavor will surely impress everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: In just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have these delicious bars ready to bake.
• Family-Friendly: The combination of oats and lemon makes these treats appealing to both kids and adults.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for summer barbecues, holiday gatherings, or as a midday snack.
• Balanced Flavor: The creamy lemon filling provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty oatmeal crust.
• Easy to Store: These bars can be made ahead of time and stored for later enjoyment.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Oatmeal Lemon Cream Bars, having the right tools on hand will streamline your process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking dish (9×13 inch)
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula

Why These Tools Matter

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients without mess.
• Baking dish: A sturdy dish ensures even baking and easy cutting into bars.
• Whisk: Perfect for achieving a smooth lemon filling without lumps.
• Rubber spatula: Great for scraping down the sides of bowls and ensuring all ingredients are blended well.

Ingredients

These easy Oatmeal Lemon Cream Bars have a creamy lemon filling between two thick crumbly oatmeal layers. A delightful balance of sweet and tangy!

Ingredients:
– 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 1/4 cups rolled oats
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
– 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 1/3 cup lemon juice, about 2 1/2 large lemons
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Oatmeal Lemon Cream Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bars bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Oat Crust

• In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, salt, and baking soda. Mix well.
• In another bowl, mix together the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and melted unsalted butter. Stir until combined.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients into the butter mixture until crumbly. Press half of this mixture firmly into the bottom of your baking dish.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Filling

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, lemon zest, lemon juice, and egg yolks until smooth.
• Pour this mixture over the oat crust in your baking dish.

Step 4: Add Topping and Bake

• Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the lemon filling evenly.
• Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. Enjoy your delicious Oatmeal Lemon Cream Bars!

How to Serve Oatmeal Lemon Cream Bars

These delightful Oatmeal Lemon Cream Bars can be enjoyed in various ways, enhancing their flavor and presentation. Whether it’s a casual family gathering or a festive occasion, serving them right can make all the difference.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve your bars with a side of fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. Their natural sweetness complements the tangy lemon filling.

Dusting of Powdered Sugar

• A light dusting of powdered sugar on top adds an elegant touch and a hint of sweetness, making your bars visually appealing.

Whipped Cream

• Top each bar with a dollop of whipped cream for extra creaminess. You can also add a sprinkle of lemon zest for a zesty kick.

Vanilla Ice Cream

• Pair your Oatmeal Lemon Cream Bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold creaminess balances the warm, tangy flavors perfectly.

Lemon Slices

• Garnish each serving with a slice of lemon for added zest and a pop of color. This makes for an attractive plate presentation.

Mint Leaves

• A few fresh mint leaves on top not only enhance the look but also add a refreshing aroma that pairs well with lemon.

How to Perfect Oatmeal Lemon Cream Bars

Perfecting your Oatmeal Lemon Cream Bars can elevate them from good to great. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out just right.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemons yield more juice and zest, enhancing the flavor significantly compared to bottled options.
• Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool fully before cutting. This helps them set properly and makes slicing easier without crumbling.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste the filling before baking and adjust the sugar according to your preference for sweetness versus tartness.
• Layer Evenly: When spreading the oatmeal mixture, ensure it’s evenly distributed for consistent texture in every bite.
• Store Properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. They taste even better after chilling!

Best Side Dishes for Oatmeal Lemon Cream Bars

Serving side dishes alongside your Oatmeal Lemon Cream Bars can create a more balanced dessert experience. Consider these delicious options that complement their flavors beautifully.

1. Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and vibrancy to your dessert table.
2. Yogurt Parfaits: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and fruit for a creamy contrast that pairs well with lemon.
3. Nutty Granola: A crunchy nutty granola provides texture and complements the soft bars perfectly when served as a topping or side.
4. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats add another layer of sweetness and texture that works harmoniously with lemon flavors.
5. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like cream cheese or mascarpone to balance the tartness and provide richness alongside your bars.
6. Chai Tea: A warm cup of chai tea offers a spiced contrast to the citrus notes, making for an inviting pairing at any gathering.
7. Simple Green Salad: A crisp green salad dressed lightly will refresh the palate between bites of rich dessert.
8. Lemonade or Iced Tea: Refreshing drinks like lemonade or iced tea enhance the overall experience, especially on warm days.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Oatmeal Lemon Cream Bars can be simple, but certain mistakes can ruin the experience. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Skipping the Zest: Not adding lemon zest can lead to a dull flavor. Always include fresh lemon zest for an extra burst of citrus.
• Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing can make the oatmeal layers tough. Mix just until combined for a tender texture.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can affect how well your mixture combines. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
• Not Measuring Accurately: Inaccurate measurements can throw off the balance of flavors. Use precise measuring tools for accuracy.
• Baking Too Long: Overbaking can dry out your bars. Keep an eye on them and remove when they are lightly golden and set in the center.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Oatmeal Lemon Cream Bars in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Oatmeal Lemon Cream Bars

• Wrap bars individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Oatmeal Lemon Cream Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place bars on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual bars for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick pan over low heat, cover, and warm each side for about 2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Oatmeal Lemon Cream Bars gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these delicious bars gluten-free without sacrificing taste.

Can I use different fruits in my Oatmeal Lemon Cream Bars?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other citrus fruits like lime or orange, or even berries for different flavors.

What should I serve with Oatmeal Lemon Cream Bars?

These bars pair well with fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, enhancing their creamy texture and zesty flavor.

How long do Oatmeal Lemon Cream Bars last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, these bars will last up to 5 days, making them perfect for meal prep!

Conclusion

Oatmeal Lemon Cream Bars are a delightful treat that balances sweet and tangy flavors perfectly. Their versatility allows you to customize them with different fruits or toppings. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious dessert that everyone will love!

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