Lemon Nut Bars
Lemon Nut Bars combine a buttery oat crust with a tangy lemon filling and crunchy nuts, perfect for a sweet, citrusy treat suited for gatherings or afternoon snacks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, stir together flour and sugars.
- Cut in margarine until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in nuts and oats.
- Reserve 1 cup of the crumb mixture for topping.
- Press the remaining mixture into the bottom of a greased 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Bake for 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider substituting half of the margarine with unsweetened applesauce. You can also use walnuts or pecans instead of mixed nuts for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a tangier taste, increase the lemon juice to 4 tablespoons. Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier blending, which will yield a smoother filling.
Serving Suggestions
These lemon nut bars are delicious served chilled or at room temperature. Pair them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience. They make a great addition to a picnic or potluck, and are perfect as a sweet treat alongside coffee or tea. For a refreshing contrast, serve with fresh fruit or a citrus salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover lemon nut bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For best results, allow them to come to room temperature before serving. You can also freeze them for up to three months; simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Nut Bars contains roughly 462 calories, with 5g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (14% of the Daily Value), protein (10% of the Daily Value), and iron (10% 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 a different type of sweetener?
Absolutely! You can substitute the granulated sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar alternative like stevia. Keep in mind that using a liquid sweetener may alter the texture, so you might need to adjust the other ingredients accordingly.
What kind of nuts work best in this recipe?
While the recipe calls for chopped nuts, you can use any type you prefer. Almonds, walnuts, or pecans all complement the lemon flavor beautifully. For added crunch, consider using a mix of nuts or even adding some seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour. Be sure to check that your oats are certified gluten-free as well, as some brands may contain traces of gluten during processing.
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).