I am always on the lookout for sweet treats that not only satisfy my cravings but also bring joy to my family. These Delish Gluten Free Lemon Bars are a delightful combination of zesty freshness and creamy softness that have become a cherished staple in our home. With their vibrant lemon flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture, they are perfect for gatherings, a sunny afternoon snack, or even as a light dessert after dinner. What truly makes them special, however, is how they unite my loved ones to the table—everyone always clamors for seconds!

I vividly remember the first time I made these lemon bars. It was a sunny Saturday afternoon, and we were hosting a small gathering with family friends. My husband, who has a bit of a sweet tooth, helped me squeeze the lemons, and the bright, citrusy aroma filled our kitchen. Once the bars were out of the oven and cooled, I could barely keep my kids from sneaking bites before I could even dust them with powdered sugar! Watching them giggle and run around excitedly, I knew I had found a winner. Now, they request these lemon bars for every family get-together, and they are always the first to disappear.

Why You’ll Love This Delish Gluten Free Lemon Bars

You’re going to fall for these lemon bars because they’re irresistibly bright and refreshing—perfect for any occasion. They are incredibly easy to whip up, making them a go-to dessert when you’re short on time but still want to impress. Plus, being gluten-free, they ensure that everyone can enjoy a sweet treat without any worry. The crispy crust perfectly balances the creamy, tangy filling, creating a textural delight that your taste buds will thank you for!

Behind the Recipe

Making these lemon bars is a breeze, but there are a few key points to keep in mind. The crust is essential—it should be buttery and slightly crumbly, providing the perfect base for the lush filling. As a friendly tip, letting the bars cool completely before slicing is crucial, as it helps the filling to set up beautifully. I also like to use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor, but bottled juice can work in a pinch if you’re in a hurry. A sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds an aesthetic touch and a bit of sweetness that balances the tartness perfectly.

Shopping Tips

When you’re out shopping for ingredients, opt for firm, bright lemons with smooth skin. These will be juicier and full of flavor. For the crust, look for high-quality gluten-free flour blends; avoiding those with unnecessary fillers makes a noticeable difference. And when it comes to butter, always go for unsalted if possible, allowing you to control the saltiness of your dessert. Check the expiration dates on your ingredients—especially with baking aids like baking powder and baking soda—to ensure your bars rise beautifully.

Prep Ahead Ideas

You can prepare your crust a day ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Measuring out your ingredients the night before will save you valuable time when you’re ready to bake. The bars themselves can also be made in advance, and they store wonderfully in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld even more over time. This time-saving strategy is a lifesaver for hectic weeknights or last-minute guests.

Time-Saving Tricks

Using a food processor to make the crust can cut down on prep time significantly. You can also buy pre-squeezed lemon juice for those days when you simply need to speed things up. However, I always recommend that if you can find the few extra minutes for fresh juice, it makes a difference in taste. Setting up your mise en place—having everything measured and ready to go—makes the baking process smooth and enjoyable.

Common Mistakes

One of the most common pitfalls is overbaking the lemon bars, which can lead to a rubbery texture. Make sure to keep a close eye on them in the final moments of baking. Another mistake is skipping the cooling step; if you cut into them too soon, the filling will be too soft. If you find your bars have set too thick, a light sprinkle of powdered sugar can help rescue their appearance, and serve with fresh berries or whipped cream for added flair.

What to Serve It With

These lemon bars shine on their own, but they also pair incredibly well with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Fresh berries, particularly blueberries or raspberries, add a beautiful splash of color and tartness that complements the sweet lemon flavor. They can also be served alongside a refreshing cup of tea or lemonade for a delightful afternoon treat.

Tips & Mistakes

Storage Tips

Store in airtight containers in the fridge. It reheats beautifully, but if you sneak a bite cold straight from the container, it still works.

Variations and Substitutions

You can easily swap in coconut oil for butter to make these lemon bars dairy-free. Adjusting the sugar level is also an option, as you can use honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile. Keep in mind that while these variations can be fun, the classic version still has a special place in my heart.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these lemon bars gluten-free?

We use gluten-free flour, which gives that perfect texture without any gluten. It’s just as delicious as traditional recipes!

Can I use lime instead of lemon?

Absolutely! Lime adds a unique twist and can be just as refreshing. Just adjust the sugar to taste since limes tend to be a bit tarter.

How long do these last in the fridge?

They’ll keep for about a week in the refrigerator, but I bet they won’t last that long once you try them!

Can I freeze the leftover bars?

Yes, you can freeze these lemon bars! Wrap them well in plastic wrap and foil—they should keep for a few months.

Is there a way to make them less sweet?

Definitely! You can reduce the sugar amount used in the filling, or even add a bit of zest to enhance the lemon flavor without adding sweetness.

Remember it later

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Delish Gluten Free Lemon Bars

These vibrant and tangy lemon bars are not only gluten-free but also packed with flavor. They're perfect for a refreshing dessert or a sweet snack!

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Prep Time: 15

Cook Time: 25

Total Time: 40

Servings: 12

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

▢ 1.5 cup almond flour
▢ 0.25 cup coconut flour
▢ 0.5 cup granulated sugar you can adjust to taste
▢ 0.5 cup unsalted butter melted
▢ 3 large eggs
▢ 0.5 cup fresh lemon juice about 2-3 lemons
▢ 1 tbsp lemon zest freshly grated
▢ 0.5 tsp baking powder

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal later.
In a mixing bowl, combine almond flour, coconut flour, and sugar. Pour in melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles a crumbly dough.
Press the dough firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust, then bake for about 10 minutes or until lightly golden.
While the crust bakes, whisk together the eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, and baking powder in a separate bowl until well combined.
Pour the lemon filling over the pre-baked crust and return the pan to the oven. Bake for an additional 20 minutes or until the filling is set.
Allow the lemon bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Slice them into squares and enjoy!

Notes

These lemon bars are best served chilled and can be dusted with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness!