Oatmeal Lemon Cream Bars

Looking for a delightful dessert that combines the wholesome goodness of oatmeal with a burst of tangy lemon flavor? These Oatmeal Lemon Cream Bars are a perfect choice! Made with a buttery oatmeal crust and topped with a luscious lemon filling, this dessert offers the perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a treat for yourself, these bars are easy to make and will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients:

For the oatmeal crust and topping:

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/4 cups rolled oats
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the lemon filling:

• 1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the oatmeal crust and topping: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, salt, and baking soda. Add the granulated sugar and light brown sugar, and mix well. Pour in the melted butter and vanilla extract, stirring until everything is fully incorporated and the dough becomes wet.
2. Bake the crust: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Press half of the oatmeal dough into the dish, ensuring it’s evenly distributed and covering all the edges. Bake in the preheated oven at 350°F for 15 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool.
3. Prepare the lemon filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, lemon zest, lemon juice, egg yolks, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour this lemon mixture over the cooled oatmeal crust.
4. Top and bake: Take the remaining oatmeal dough and crumble it evenly over the lemon filling to cover it completely. Bake for another 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack.
5. Refrigerate and serve: Once cooled, refrigerate the bars for at least 1 hour to set properly. After chilling, remove from the dish, cut into squares, and serve.

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Tips

• Chill the Bars: After baking, refrigerate the bars for a minimum of one hour to ensure the filling firms up properly for easy slicing.
• Use Fresh Lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest give the best flavor, enhancing the lemon filling.
• Store Properly: These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Vegan Version: Swap the butter with vegan butter and use a non-dairy condensed milk alternative to make the recipe vegan-friendly.
• Different Citrus: Try using lime or orange zest and juice for a different citrus twist.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour to make these bars gluten-free.

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FAQs

Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes! These bars are perfect for making ahead. Just make sure to refrigerate them after baking to let the filling set.

Can I freeze the bars?
Yes, these bars freeze well. Once cooled and sliced, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container before freezing for up to a month.

Can I substitute the egg yolks in the filling?
Yes, you can substitute the egg yolks with cornstarch. Use 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water for each egg yolk.

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Serving Suggestions

These oatmeal lemon cream bars are perfect for:

• Afternoon Tea: Serve them with a cup of tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
• Potlucks or Gatherings: They’re great for sharing at potlucks, picnics, or family gatherings.
• Dessert Buffets: These bars add a tangy and sweet flavor to any dessert table.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Balance of Flavors: The sweet oatmeal crust pairs beautifully with the tangy lemon filling for a perfect combination of textures and flavors.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and an easy process, these bars are a breeze to prepare.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dessert or a special occasion, these oatmeal lemon cream bars will be a hit with everyone!