Introduction
If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that’s easy to prepare, these citrus lemon bars made with cake mix boxes are the perfect solution. Combining the zesty flavor of lemons with the convenience of a cake mix, this recipe allows you to whip up a delicious treat in no time. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving a sweet snack, these lemon bars are sure to impress.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the crust:
– 1 box of lemon cake mix
– 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
For the filling:
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup of lemon juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor)
– 1 cup of powdered sugar
– 1 tablespoon of lemon zest
Prep Time
The preparation time for these lemon bars is approximately 10 minutes. This quick prep time makes it easy to fit this delicious dessert into your busy schedule.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cook time for these lemon bars is about 20-25 minutes. In total, from preparation to baking, you can expect to spend around 30-35 minutes in the kitchen. This recipe yields about 16 bars, making it perfect for sharing with family and friends or enjoying throughout the week. Enjoy these easy citrus lemon bars that are sure to bring a burst of sunshine to your day!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it is hot enough for baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.
Step 3: Combine the Cake Mix
In a large mixing bowl, combine one box of cake mix (preferably lemon flavor), 1/2 cup of melted butter, and 1 egg. Mix until the batter is well combined and smooth.
Step 4: Spread the Mixture
Pour the cake mix batter into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to evenly spread it out across the bottom of the dish.
Step 5: Prepare the Lemon Layer
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs, 1 cup of powdered sugar, and the juice of 1 fresh lemon until smooth and well combined.
Step 6: Pour the Lemon Mixture
Carefully pour the lemon mixture over the cake batter in the baking dish. Do not mix the two layers together; they will create a delicious combination as they bake.
Step 7: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set.
Step 8: Cool and Cut
Once done, remove the baking dish from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. When cooled, cut into squares.
Step 9: Dust with Powdered Sugar
Before serving, dust the top of the lemon bars with additional powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
Notes
Adjusting Sweetness
Feel free to adjust the amount of powdered sugar depending on your desired level of sweetness.
Storage Tips
Store leftover lemon bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Variation Ideas
You can experiment with different cake mix flavors or add lemon zest to enhance the lemon flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the lemon bars with whipped cream or alongside fresh berries for a delightful dessert presentation.
Cook techniques
Using Cake Mix
Utilizing a box cake mix simplifies the process of making lemon bars, saving time on measuring and mixing dry ingredients.
Combining Ingredients
Carefully combine the cake mix with wet ingredients to create a smooth batter. Ensure there are no lumps for even baking.
Baking Time
Monitor the baking time closely. Lemon bars typically require baking until the top is set but not overcooked, ensuring a soft texture.
Cooling Properly
Allow the lemon bars to cool completely before cutting. This helps achieve clean edges and enhances flavor.
FAQ
Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
Yes, you can experiment with different flavored cake mixes to create variations of lemon bars.
How do I store leftover lemon bars?
Store lemon bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I freeze lemon bars?
Yes, lemon bars can be frozen. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?
You can use unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal mixture as an egg substitute for a vegan option.
How can I make my lemon bars more tangy?
To enhance the tanginess, add extra lemon juice or zest to the filling mixture before baking.
Conclusion
Enjoying a slice of citrus lemon bars made from a cake mix is a delightful treat that combines convenience with a burst of flavor. These easy-to-make bars are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. The simplicity of using a cake mix allows you to whip them up in no time, making them an ideal choice for busy bakers. With just a few ingredients, you can indulge in a refreshing dessert that brings a zesty twist to your table.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Lemon Meringue Pie
Try making a classic lemon meringue pie using the same citrus flavors to bring a light and airy dessert to your gatherings.
Citrus Cheesecake Bars
Mix cream cheese with citrus flavors and use similar techniques to create creamy cheesecake bars that can be decorated with whipped cream and fruit.
Lemon Drizzle Cake
Bake a moist lemon drizzle cake for a delightful twist that features a sweet and tangy glaze, perfect for tea time.
Lemon Pudding Parfaits
Layer lemon pudding with crushed cookies and whipped cream for a quick and easy dessert that’s perfect for individual servings.
Citrus Fruit Salad
Combine various citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits, and lemons dressed with honey and mint for a refreshing side dish.
Lemon-Scented Muffins
Whip up lemon-scented muffins with a sprinkle of zest and a sweet glaze to create a breakfast treat that’s bursting with flavor.
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