Vegan Lemon Bars
Vegan lemon bars are the perfect plant-based dessert that combines zesty lemon flavor with a smooth, creamy filling and a crumbly crust. These tasty little delights are a friendly hug for your taste buds, making them ideal for any occasion. Whether you're hosting friends, enjoying a sunny day, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these bars will brighten your day like a ray of sunshine!
Ingredients
- For the crust:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour or oat flour for gluten-free
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar you can use coconut sugar for a healthier version
- 1/2 cup coconut oil or vegan butter you can use unsalted vegan butter as a substitute
- For the lemon filling:
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice about 4-6 lemons
- 1 cup granulated sugar substitute with agave syrup or a sugar alternative like monk fruit
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch if you're out, you can use arrowroot powder
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest always a good idea; it adds a zesty kick!
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric for that warm yellow color; totally optional
- 1/2 cup plant-based milk almond or coconut works great!
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: First things first, crank the oven up to 350°F (175°C). This is a crucial step for perfectly cooked lemon bars!
- Make the Crust: In a bowl, mix together the flour and powdered sugar. Then, add the coconut oil (or butter) and blend until the mixture is crumbly. It should stick together when you press it, just like that! Press this mixture into the bottom of a parchment-lined 8x8-inch baking pan. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until it’s just starting to brown around the edges.
- Prepare the Lemon Filling: While the crust is baking, let’s make the filling! In a separate bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon zest, turmeric (if using), and plant-based milk until smooth. It should look zingy and delightful!
- Combine and Pour: Once the crust has cooled slightly, pour the lemon filling over it. Bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set but still has a little jiggle.
- Cool and Cut: Allow the lemon bars to cool to room temperature in the pan. Then pop them in the fridge for at least an hour to chill and set completely. Finally, cut into squares, dust with some powdered sugar (if you're feeling fancy), and enjoy!