Cooking Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 55 minutes
Servings:
- Makes about 16 bars
These Tangy and Sweet Vegan Lemon Bars are a refreshing dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With a buttery crust and a zesty lemon filling, these bars are both flavorful and satisfying. Let’s dive into the recipe and create this delightful dish!
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour (use gluten-free if needed)
- 1/2 cup of powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 cup of coconut oil, melted (or vegan butter)
For the Lemon Filling:
- 1 cup of fresh lemon juice (about 4-5 lemons)
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup of cornstarch
- 1/2 cup of coconut milk or other plant-based milk
- 2 teaspoons of lemon zest
- 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric (for color, optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
For Topping:
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, powdered sugar, and salt.
- Add Coconut Oil: Add the melted coconut oil to the dry ingredients and mix until a crumbly dough forms.
- Press into Pan: Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Filling
- Mix Lemon Juice and Sugar: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, granulated sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
- Add Milk and Zest: Add the coconut milk, lemon zest, turmeric (if using), and salt to the saucepan. Whisk until well combined.
- Cook the Filling: Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil, about 5-7 minutes.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the filling cool slightly, about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
- Pour Filling: Pour the lemon filling over the baked crust, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are lightly golden.
- Cool Completely: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Chill: Once cooled, refrigerate the lemon bars for at least 2 hours, or until fully chilled and set.
- Slice: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the baking dish. Slice into 16 squares.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: Dust the tops of the lemon bars with powdered sugar before serving.
- Enjoy: Enjoy these tangy and sweet vegan lemon bars!
Tips and Variations:
- Extra Flavor: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the filling for extra depth of flavor.
- Different Citrus: Substitute or mix in other citrus juices like lime or orange for a different twist.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make the crust gluten-free.
Nutritional Information:
These vegan lemon bars are a delightful dessert option that provides a refreshing balance of tangy and sweet flavors. The crust is buttery and the filling is smooth and zesty, making these bars both delicious and satisfying.
Storage and Reheating:
- Storage: Store any leftover lemon bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: The lemon bars can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Tea or Coffee: Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful snack or dessert.
- For Parties: Include as part of a dessert platter for parties or gatherings.
- As a Gift: Package the bars in a decorative tin or box for a homemade gift.
These Tangy and Sweet Vegan Lemon Bars are a wonderful way to enjoy a refreshing and satisfying dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of a buttery crust and a zesty lemon filling creates a treat that is both flavorful and delightful. Enjoy these lemon bars with family and friends. Happy baking!
