How to Make Delicious Lemon Bars Using Lemon Cake Mix
Craving something sweet and tangy? Lemon bars are a delightful dessert that perfectly balances the refreshing zest of lemons with just the right amount of sweetness. By using a lemon cake mix, you can simplify the process and achieve a delicious result without a long list of ingredients. This method will have you enjoying perfectly tart lemon bars in no time.
Why Use Lemon Cake Mix?
Using a lemon cake mix as your base not only saves time but also enhances the lemony flavor of the bars. The mix provides a consistent texture, ensuring each bar is perfectly soft and moist. It’s a convenient way to get straight to the good stuff—eating those lemony delights—without fussing over too many steps.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 box of lemon cake mix
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest (optional for extra zing)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Lemon Bars
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Prepare the Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly to prevent sticking. -
Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the lemon cake mix, vegetable oil, and one of the eggs. Stir the ingredients until they form a dough. This will be your crust. Reserve about half a cup of this mixture for later. -
Create the Crust
Press the remaining dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan. Use your fingers or the back of a spoon to make sure the crust layer is smooth and even. Bake it in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden.
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Prepare the Lemon Filling
In a separate bowl, whisk the remaining egg, powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest together until smooth. Pour this mixture over the pre-baked crust. If you like a more tangy and bold flavor, adding extra lemon zest can make a real difference. -
Add the Crumbled Topping
Take the reserved dough and crumble it over the lemon layer. This will give your lemon bars a delightful texture with a slightly crunchy topping. -
Final Baking Touches
Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 15-18 minutes. Keep an eye on the top to ensure it doesn’t over-bake; you want a light golden-brown color. -
Cooling and Serving
Once baked, let the lemon bars cool in the pan for at least 30-45 minutes. This cooling time is crucial for them to set properly. Once cooled, cut into squares and, if desired, dust with a bit more powdered sugar for presentation.
Tips for Perfect Lemon Bars
- Cool Completely: Patience is key. Allowing lemon bars to cool thoroughly will make cutting them much easier and help them hold their shape.
- Lemon Zest: If you’re a fan of intense lemon flavor, adding a bit more zest can make a huge difference. It’s optional, but adds a vibrant zing that complements the bars beautifully.
With this easy approach, making lemon bars with lemon cake mix is a breeze. The combination of tangy lemon and a sweet, buttery crust is irresistible. Enjoy these treats as a simple dessert or share them with friends and family for any occasion. Your taste buds will thank you, and so will they!
