Lemon Crumb Bars Classic (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the Crust and Topping

01 - 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
02 - ½ cup granulated sugar
03 - ½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
04 - ½ teaspoon salt
05 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
06 - ½ cup rolled oats
07 - ¼ cup brown sugar, packed

→ For the Lemon Filling

08 - 3 large eggs, room temperature
09 - 1 cup granulated sugar
10 - ½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
11 - 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
12 - ¼ cup all-purpose flour
13 - ½ teaspoon baking powder
14 - ¼ teaspoon salt

→ Optional Toppings

15 - Powdered sugar for dusting
16 - Whipped cream or Greek yogurt for serving
17 - Fresh mint leaves for garnish

# Instructions:

01 - Collect all required ingredients and measure them accurately for best results.
02 - Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
03 - Line a 9×9 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. Optionally, grease the dish with butter or cooking spray.
04 - Combine 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, ½ cup granulated sugar, and ½ cup softened unsalted butter in a bowl. Mix until crumbly.
05 - Spread the crumbly mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Press firmly to form the crust.
06 - Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the crust turns light golden brown.
07 - Whisk together 3 large eggs, 1 cup granulated sugar, ½ cup fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon lemon zest, ¼ cup all-purpose flour, and ½ teaspoon baking powder until smooth.
08 - After removing the crust from the oven, pour the prepared lemon filling evenly over the hot crust.
09 - Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 20-25 minutes until the lemon filling sets.
10 - Allow the dish to cool completely on a wire rack. Using the parchment overhang, lift out the bars and cut them into squares.

# Notes:

01 - Ensure even layering when spreading the crust and filling to achieve uniform results.
02 - Cool completely before cutting to avoid crumbling.