If you’re in the mood for a delightful dessert that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, look no further than these scrumptious 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars. This easy recipe is all about simplicity without compromising on flavor. With just two main ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these tangy treats in no time. They’re perfect for warm summer days or as a refreshing finish to any meal. The bright citrus flavor is sure to brighten your day and impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night at home, these lemon bars are the ideal sweet addition to your dessert table. Plus, they require minimal prep time—just mix, bake, and enjoy! Get ready to experience the joy of homemade desserts without the fuss of complicated recipes.
Why You’ll Love This 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Lemons: Use juicy lemons for the best flavor; organic lemons are preferred due to their natural taste
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: This ingredient adds sweetness and creates a creamy texture; make sure it’s unsweetened if you prefer less sugar
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8×8-inch baking dish by greasing it lightly with non-stick spray or lining it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare The Lemon Mixture
In a mixing bowl, squeeze enough fresh lemon juice until you have about one cup. Add one can of sweetened condensed milk into the bowl and whisk together until well combined.
Step 3: Pour Into Baking Dish
Pour the lemon mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the bottom.
Step 4: Bake In The Oven
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes. The edges should be set while the center remains slightly jiggly.
Step 5: Cool Down
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool at room temperature. After cooling down sufficiently, refrigerate for at least one hour before slicing.
Step 6: Serve And Enjoy
Slice into squares and serve chilled. Dust with powdered sugar if desired for an elegant touch!
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Use Fresh Lemons: Freshly squeezed juice provides maximum flavor compared to bottled alternatives
- Chill Before Serving: Allowing your lemon bars to chill helps them firm up nicely for easier slicing
- Add Zest For Extra Flavor: Incorporating lemon zest enhances the overall citrus flavor profile
How to Serve 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars
This 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Whipped Cream: The light and airy texture of whipped cream complements the tartness of the lemon bars perfectly.
- Fresh Berries: Juicy berries provide a sweet contrast to the zesty flavors, enhancing the overall taste experience.
- Iced Tea: A refreshing drink that balances the sweetness and acidity of the lemon bars for a delightful pairing.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the lemon filling a day in advance. Allow it to cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerating for up to 24 hours.
- Storing: Store leftover lemon bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Ensure they are fully cooled before placing them in the container to maintain their texture.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the bars on a microwave-safe plate and warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, just until slightly warmed. For best texture, avoid overheating.
Suggestions for 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars
Avoid Using Overripe Lemons
Using overripe lemons can lead to a bitter flavor in your 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars. When selecting lemons, choose ones that feel firm and have smooth skin. Overripe lemons may seem juicy, but they can compromise the taste of your dessert. A fresh lemon enhances the tartness and brightness that makes these bars so delightful. Additionally, avoid lemons that have soft spots or blemishes. For the best results, use lemons with a bright yellow hue and a pleasant fragrance. This simple tip will elevate your lemon bars to a new level of deliciousness.
Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately
When making 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars, accurate measurement is crucial. While the recipe is straightforward, even a slight deviation can affect the texture and flavor. Use a reliable measuring tool to ensure you add the right amount of lemon juice and sweetened condensed milk. Too much lemon juice could make the bars overly tart, while too little may result in a flat flavor profile. Precision in measurements not only enhances taste but also ensures the consistency you desire in each bite. Take your time to measure accurately for perfect results every time.
Skipping Chilling Time
Chilling time is essential for achieving the perfect texture in your 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars. If you skip this step, you might end up with a gooey or overly soft dessert that doesn’t set properly. After baking, allow your lemon bars to cool at room temperature before placing them in the refrigerator. Ideally, chill them for at least two hours or overnight for best results. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and gives the bars a firmer consistency, making them easier to cut into squares without falling apart.
Forgetting to Grease Your Pan
Greasing your pan is often overlooked but is vital when preparing 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars. Without proper greasing, your bars may stick to the pan and break apart when you attempt to remove them. Use butter or cooking spray generously on all sides of your baking dish before pouring in the mixture. This simple step ensures easy removal and clean slices when serving your lemon bars. If you want an extra layer of security against sticking, consider lining the pan with parchment paper after greasing it for effortless lifting.
FAQs
What are 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars?
2 Ingredient Lemon Bars are a simple yet delicious dessert made from just two main ingredients: fresh lemon juice and sweetened condensed milk. The combination creates a refreshing treat with a creamy texture and tangy flavor that’s perfect for any occasion. They are incredibly easy to prepare and require minimal effort while still delivering impressive results. Many people enjoy these lemon bars as a light dessert during warm weather or as an afternoon snack paired with tea or coffee.
How long do I need to chill my 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars?
Chilling time is crucial for achieving the best texture in your 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars. After baking, it’s recommended to let them cool at room temperature before transferring them to the refrigerator. Aim for at least two hours of chilling time; however, overnight chilling yields even better results as it allows flavors to deepen and helps firm up the consistency. Proper chilling makes cutting into squares easier without crumbling, ensuring you serve beautiful portions.
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemons?
While it’s tempting to use bottled lemon juice for convenience when making 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars, fresh lemon juice offers superior flavor and brightness that bottled alternatives often lack. Fresh lemons provide essential oils from their zest which enhance aroma and taste significantly. If you’re short on time or fresh lemons aren’t available, opt for bottled juice labeled as “100% pure.” However, keep in mind that using fresh lemons will produce more vibrant-tasting bars that truly shine.
Can I add other ingredients to my 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars?
Yes! Although traditional 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars focus solely on lemon juice and sweetened condensed milk, you can customize them by adding extras such as zest from lemons or even incorporating vanilla extract for added depth of flavor. Some enjoy topping their bars with whipped cream or powdered sugar before serving for an elegant touch. Feel free to experiment while keeping in mind that additional ingredients should complement rather than overpower the bright citrus taste.
Conclusion for 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars
In conclusion, making delightful 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars is both simple and rewarding when you follow specific guidelines meticulously. Remember to select firm lemons and measure precisely to achieve optimal flavor balance between tartness and sweetness. Allowing adequate chilling time enhances texture while greasing your pan prevents sticking issues during serving—both are crucial steps not to overlook! As you explore variations by adding zest or complementary flavors, keep the essence of this classic treat intact: bright citrus goodness in every bite awaits those who embrace these essential tips! Enjoy baking these refreshing treats!
2 Ingredient Lemon Bars
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: About 9 servings
Description
Indulge in the bright, refreshing taste of homemade 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars. This easy recipe combines the tangy flavor of fresh lemons with the creamy sweetness of condensed milk, creating a perfect dessert that’s both light and satisfying.
Ingredients
- Fresh lemons (approximately 4-5 for 1 cup of juice)
- Sweetened condensed milk (1 can)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8×8-inch baking dish by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
- Squeeze fresh lemons until you have one cup of juice. In a bowl, mix the lemon juice with one can of sweetened condensed milk until thoroughly combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.
- Allow to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least one hour before slicing into squares.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (45g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
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