Two-Ingredient Lemon Bars Recipe

If you love bright, tangy treats that come together in a snap, you are going to adore this Two-Ingredient Lemon Bars Recipe. It’s hands down one of the easiest desserts you can make, yet it manages to pack a serious burst of fresh lemon flavor along with a soft, fluffy angel food cake base that feels both indulgent and light. Whether you’re new to baking or need a quick crowd-pleaser, these bars strike the perfect balance between simplicity and deliciousness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are not only easy to find but also integral to creating the delightful texture and irresistible taste of these lemon bars. Each one plays a key role in building this refreshing dessert’s character.

• Angel food cake mix (16 ounces): This mix forms the airy and tender base that beautifully complements the lemon topping.
• Lemon pie filling (21-22 ounces): The star of the show, bringing vibrant citrus flavor with a smooth and slightly gelatinous texture that sets perfectly.
• Powdered sugar (optional): A light dusting adds a touch of sweetness and pretty finishing flair.
• Whipped cream, mint, lemon slice (optional toppings): These elevate presentation and add a fresh, creamy, or zesty accent to every bite.

How to Make Two-Ingredient Lemon Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Angel Food Cake Base

Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan to ensure the bars will release easily later. Pour the angel food cake mix into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula or your hands. This will create a delicate, cloud-like crust that serves as the perfect foundation for the tangy topping.

Step 2: Top with Lemon Pie Filling

Spoon the entire jar of lemon pie filling over the cake mix layer. Use a spatula to spread it out gently and evenly so every bite gets that luscious lemon zing. The filling’s gelatinous texture helps it set firmly during baking, balancing the softness of the cake base.

Step 3: Bake Until Set

Place your pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes. You’re looking for the edges to set and pull slightly away from the pan, while the center feels firm but still tender to the touch. Resist the urge to overbake since the goal is a moist yet sliceable bar.

Step 4: Cool Completely, Then Add Final Touches

Remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool to room temperature. Once cool, you can dust them with powdered sugar to add a delicate sweetness and an inviting look. If you want to dress them up even more, top with whipped cream, a sprig of mint, or a thin lemon slice to echo the fresh citrus flavor.

How to Serve Two-Ingredient Lemon Bars Recipe

Garnishes

Adding garnishes like a dollop of fluffy whipped cream, fresh mint leaves, or thin lemon rounds transforms these bars from simple to sophisticated. They not only enhance the visual appeal but also provide layers of flavor and texture that elevate the eating experience.

Side Dishes

These lemon bars pair wonderfully with a refreshing iced tea or a cup of herbal tea, which balances the bars’ sweetness and acidity. For a brunch spread, serve them alongside fresh berries or a light fruit salad to keep things bright and fresh.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings or special occasions, cut the bars into small, bite-sized squares and arrange them on a pretty platter topped with edible flowers or extra mint sprigs. You could even serve them in individual dessert glasses layered with whipped cream and berries for an elegant twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover lemon bars stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer freshness, refrigeration is best to maintain their texture and prevent any spoilage.

Freezing

If you’d like to save some for later, these bars freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing their lovely texture or lemony punch.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy frozen or refrigerated bars, let them thaw at room temperature. You can warm them briefly in the microwave—about 15-20 seconds—to slightly rejuvenate softness, but be careful not to overheat to keep the topping from breaking down.

FAQs

Can I use any other cake mix for this Two-Ingredient Lemon Bars Recipe?

Angel food cake mix is the best choice since it creates a light and airy base that complements the lemon topping. Using other cake mixes may alter the texture and density, making the bars less delicate.

Is it possible to use fresh lemons instead of lemon pie filling?

Fresh lemon juice alone won’t set like the pie filling does, as the filling contains gelatin or thickeners. For these bars to hold their shape, the pie filling is key. However, for a fresh lemon flavor, you could add zest to the filling or topping.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

If you find a gluten-free angel food cake mix, then yes! Just ensure your lemon pie filling is also gluten-free. Otherwise, the traditional cake mix contains gluten.

How long do these lemon bars last?

Stored properly in the fridge, they stay fresh for up to 5 days. Beyond that, they can dry out or lose their texture, so it’s best to enjoy them fairly soon after baking.

Can I double this Two-Ingredient Lemon Bars Recipe for a larger crowd?

Absolutely! Just double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish, adjusting the baking time slightly. Keep an eye on the bars as they bake to ensure they set properly without overbaking.

Final Thoughts

This Two-Ingredient Lemon Bars Recipe is a total game-changer when you crave dessert without fuss. It marries simplicity with bright flavor in a way that makes you want to bake it again and again. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how effortlessly delightful a dessert can be!

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