Zesty Lemon Oatmeal Crumble Bars
Delight in buttery lemon oatmeal crumble bars with creamy filling, crisp topping, and simple ingredients perfect for family desserts.
Ingredients
For the Crust & Crumble Topping:
- 7 tbsp (99g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 3/4 cup (150g) packed light or dark brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup (85g) old-fashioned oats
For the Lemon Filling:
- 1 can (14 ounces) full-fat sweetened condensed milk
- 6 tbsp (90ml) fresh lemon juice (approx. 2 lemons)
- 1 tbsp lemon zest (approx. 1 lemon)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Oven & Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
Step 2: Make Crust & Topping
- In a mixer, beat softened butter and brown sugar on medium-high speed until smooth (~1 minute).
- Add vanilla extract and beat for 30 seconds more.
- Mix in flour, baking powder, salt, and oats until crumbly. This should yield about 3–3.5 cups of mixture.
Step 3: Form Crust
- Press slightly more than half of the crumble mixture into the bottom of the pan.
- Bake for 12 minutes, then remove from oven.
Step 4: Prepare Lemon Filling
- In a medium bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, and zest until smooth.
Step 5: Assemble Bars
- Pour lemon filling over the warm crust and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture on top.
Step 6: Bake
- Bake for 22–25 minutes or until edges are lightly golden and the center is set. Avoid over-baking.
Step 7: Cool & Slice
- Allow bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Lift bars using the parchment overhang and cut into squares.
Notes
- Old-Fashioned Oats Work Best: They add chewiness and structure. Quick oats work too but create a softer texture.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk Only: Evaporated milk or low-fat versions won’t set properly. Full-fat condensed milk creates the creamiest filling.
- Easy to Double: Double the recipe and bake in a 9x13-inch pan for a bigger batch—perfect for parties.