Lemon Cream Bars

Lemon Cream Bars

Lemon Cream Bars are a zesty, creamy, and utterly satisfying dessert that balances the bright tartness of lemons with a velvety smooth cream filling on a buttery crust. Perfect for summer picnics, family gatherings, or a mid-week treat, these bars bring sunshine to every bite. With a perfect blend of crunch, cream, and tang, they’re loved by citrus enthusiasts and dessert lovers alike.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ cup granulated sugar

For the Lemon Cream Filling:

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• ½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 4 large egg yolks

For the Topping (Optional):

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Additional lemon zest for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until evenly combined.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish to form an even crust.
4. Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.

2. Make the Lemon Cream Filling:

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and egg yolks until smooth and creamy.
2. Pour the mixture over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.

3. Bake the Filling:

1. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
2. Remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until fully chilled.

4. Prepare the Whipped Topping (Optional):

1. In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
2. Spread the whipped cream evenly over the chilled lemon cream layer or pipe decorative dollops.

5. Garnish and Serve:

1. Sprinkle additional lemon zest on top for garnish.
2. Slice into bars and serve chilled.

Methods Used

• Mixing: Combining ingredients for both the crust and the filling.
• Baking: Ensuring the crust is firm and the filling sets properly.
• Whipping: Creating a light and fluffy topping for added texture and flavor.
• Chilling: Allows the flavors to meld and the bars to set firmly for easy slicing.

History of Lemon Cream Bars

The origin of lemon cream bars traces back to classic American lemon desserts, particularly lemon meringue pie. Over time, bakers sought simpler, portable alternatives that retained the tangy essence of lemons. Lemon cream bars became popular in the mid-20th century as a no-fuss treat perfect for potlucks and picnics. The use of condensed milk in the filling reflects mid-century convenience cooking trends, creating a silky texture beloved by generations.

Benefits of Lemon Cream Bars

1. Rich in Vitamin C: The fresh lemon juice and zest provide a healthy dose of vitamin C, boosting the immune system and promoting radiant skin.
2. Mood-Boosting Properties: The bright, citrusy aroma of lemons can lift spirits and energize the mind.
3. Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this dessert accessible for novice bakers.
4. Portion Control: The bar format allows for precise servings, making it ideal for sharing and mindful indulgence.
5. Versatile Treat: These bars are a refreshing dessert option for any occasion, from casual snacks to elegant gatherings.
6. Rich in Vitamin C:
7. The fresh lemon juice and zest used in Lemon Cream Bars provide a substantial amount of vitamin C. This essential nutrient supports a strong immune system, helps in collagen production for healthy skin, and fights oxidative stress in the body.
8. Mood Enhancer:
9. Lemons are known for their uplifting scent and flavor. The tangy and refreshing notes of the dessert can boost your mood, making it a perfect pick-me-up for any day.
10. Portion-Friendly Dessert:
11. The bar format ensures portion control, making it easier to enjoy a sweet treat without overindulging. This is especially beneficial for those monitoring their caloric intake.
12. Digestive Support:
13. The acidity of lemons can aid digestion by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes. This can help the body break down food more efficiently.
14. Energy Boost:
15. The natural sugars in the filling, combined with the carbohydrates from the crust, provide a quick energy source, perfect for a midday snack or dessert after a meal.
16. Light and Refreshing:
17. Unlike heavy desserts, Lemon Cream Bars offer a light, citrusy finish that doesn’t leave you feeling weighed down. This makes them an ideal treat during warmer months.
18. Customizable for Dietary Needs:
19. With slight modifications, such as using gluten-free graham crackers or low-fat whipped cream, the recipe can be tailored to fit various dietary preferences, making it versatile for a wide range of audiences.
20. Aesthetically Pleasing:
21. The bright yellow color of the lemon filling is visually appealing and adds a touch of elegance to any dessert spread, making it a hit at gatherings and celebrations.
22. Boosts Calcium Intake:
23. The condensed milk and optional whipped topping provide a small amount of calcium, which supports strong bones and teeth.
24. Encourages Family Bonding:
25. Baking Lemon Cream Bars is simple and fun, making it an excellent activity to share with family and friends. Cooking together not only fosters creativity but also strengthens relationships.

Lemon Cream Bars are not just a treat for the palate but also come with several benefits, from providing essential nutrients like vitamin C to promoting digestion and mood enhancement. Whether you’re savoring them alone or sharing with loved ones, these bars are a delightful way to indulge responsibly.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving) (Based on 12 servings)

• Calories: 220
• Total Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 85mg
• Sodium: 95mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 26g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0.5g
  • Sugars: 18g
• Protein: 3g
• Vitamin C: 15% of the Daily Value
• Calcium: 6% of the Daily Value
• Calories: 220Total Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 85mg
• Sodium: 95mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 26g
• Dietary Fiber: 0.5g
• Sugars: 18g
• Protein: 3g
• Vitamin A: 8% of the Daily Value (DV)
• Vitamin C: 15% of the DV
• Calcium: 6% of the DV
• Iron: 2% of the DV

Nutritional Highlights

1. Moderate Calorie Content:
   Each serving provides 220 calories, making it a satisfying yet reasonable treat for dessert or a mid-day snack.
2. Healthy Fats:
   The total fat content is moderate, with saturated fats coming from the butter and condensed milk. Using lighter ingredients can reduce this further.
3. Vitamin C Boost:
   The lemons in the recipe contribute significantly to the vitamin C content, supporting your immune system and overall wellness.
4. Balanced Carbohydrates:
   The carbohydrates mainly come from the crust and filling, with natural sugars from the lemons and sweetened condensed milk.
5. Protein Contribution:
   While not a high-protein dessert, the eggs and condensed milk provide a small amount of protein for a balanced snack.
6. Low Sodium:
   At just 95mg of sodium per serving, these bars are a low-sodium option compared to other desserts.
7. Mineral Content:
   The dessert provides small amounts of calcium and iron, contributing to bone health and oxygen transport in the body.

Note:

Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands of ingredients used or any modifications, such as using gluten-free or low-fat substitutions.

Conclusion

Lemon Cream Bars are a delightful way to indulge your sweet tooth while enjoying the refreshing zing of lemons. Their creamy texture, buttery crust, and tangy filling make them a crowd-pleaser for all occasions. Whether served as a family dessert or a showstopper at a gathering, these bars bring a touch of sunshine to the table.

Why Lovers Adore Them

Lemon lovers rave about the tangy-sweet balance that hits all the right notes, while cream enthusiasts cherish the silky, melt-in-your-mouth filling. The versatile whipped topping adds a touch of indulgence, and the buttery crust ties it all together. Whether you’re a dessert connoisseur or a casual treat-seeker, Lemon Cream Bars are bound to steal your heart.