Lemon Bar Cookies
Lemon Bar Cookies combine tangy lemon flavor with a buttery, oatmeal crust, offering a delightful treat perfect for citrus lovers and those seeking a sweet, refreshing dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sweetened condensed milk with lemon juice and grated lemon rind. Set aside.
- Mix flour, baking powder, salt, butter or margarine, brown sugar, and oatmeal to form a crumbly mixture.
- Pat two-thirds of the mixture into the bottom of a 9 x 11-inch pan, pressing firmly. Save the remaining one-third for topping.
- Pour the lemon and condensed milk mixture over the crust in the pan.
- Sprinkle the remaining crumbs evenly over the top, pressing down firmly.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour or until golden and set.
- Allow to cool before cutting into squares.
- Decorate with cherry bits before serving and store in an airtight tin in the refrigerator.
Tips & Substitutions
For a tangier flavor, consider adding more grated lemon rind or using fresh lemon juice instead of bottled. If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend. Using rolled oats will give a delightful texture, but quick oats can be used in a pinch. Ensure to pack the brown sugar tightly for the right sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
These lemon bar cookies are perfect for a sunny afternoon tea or as a sweet treat at a picnic. Consider pairing them with a cup of herbal tea or serving alongside a fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast. They also beautifully complement a rich dessert like Easy Caramel Bars, offering a balance of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, simply place a square in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. For best texture, enjoy them chilled or at room temperature, as the flavors develop beautifully over time.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Bar Cookies contains roughly 460 calories, with 5g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (21% of the Daily Value) and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 824mg per serving (36% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh lemons instead of bottled lemon juice?
Absolutely! Fresh lemon juice provides a brighter flavor and pairs wonderfully with the zest. Just make sure to strain the juice to remove any seeds before mixing it with the sweetened condensed milk.
Can I freeze these lemon bar cookies?
Yes, you can freeze them! Cut the cooled cookies into squares and layer them between parchment paper in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving for the best texture.
What can I use instead of oatmeal?
If you don't have oatmeal on hand, you can substitute it with crushed graham crackers or finely chopped nuts for added texture. Keep in mind that this will alter the flavor slightly, but it will still be delicious!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).