Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

This Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe is the perfect blend of tangy and sweet, making it a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, looking for a quick dessert, or simply craving something delicious, these lemon bars are sure to impress. With a creamy filling and a buttery crust, this recipe stands out for its simplicity and incredible flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal effort and just a few simple ingredients, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh lemon juice and zest creates a bright, refreshing taste that pairs beautifully with the creamy filling.
• Versatile Dessert: These bars can be served at parties, picnics, or as an everyday treat, fitting in perfectly with various occasions.
• Gluten-Free Option: With gluten-free flour as an option, this recipe caters to those with dietary preferences without sacrificing taste.
• Plant-Based Goodness: Made entirely from plant-based ingredients, these lemon bars are suitable for vegan diets while still being indulgent.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe successful, having the right tools on hand is essential. Below are the necessary items you’ll need to prepare this delightful dessert.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking pan (square)
• Parchment paper
• Blender
• Saucepan
• Spatula
• Fork

Importance of Each Tool

• Blender: Ensures a smooth and creamy filling by thoroughly blending all ingredients.
• Baking Pan: A square baking pan provides the perfect shape for cutting even bars.
• Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and makes it easy to lift the bars out after cooling.

Ingredients

This simple, tangy & sweet vegan lemon bar recipe is full of flavor and loosely based on the Starbucks lemon bar recipe.

For the Crust

• 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (240 g – you can also use regular all-purpose flour)
• 1 cup vegan butter (230 g)
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Filling

• 1 cup coconut cream
• 1/2 cup soaked cashews
• 1/2 cup lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup cornstarch
• pinch of salt
• pinch of turmeric (optional, for color)

How to Make Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by preparing the crust. Combine all of the crust ingredients in a large bowl and mix them well.

Step 2: Line Baking Pan

Line a square baking pan with parchment paper and grease it with coconut oil.

Step 3: Press Down Crust Mixture

Transfer the crust ingredients to the baking pan. Use a spoon or the flat bottom of a cup to press down on the crust to create a level bottom.

Step 4: Bake Crust

Bake the crust for 15-20 minutes at 350°F until the edges of the crust are golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool at room temperature.

Step 5: Poke Holes in Crust

Take a fork and use it to poke holes all around the crust. Don’t poke all the way to the bottom; just about halfway. This helps hold together better.

Step 6: Prepare Lemon Filling

While the crust is cooling, prepare the lemon filling. In a blender, combine coconut cream, soaked cashews, lemon juice and zest, maple syrup, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cornstarch, salt, and turmeric. Blend until super smooth and creamy.

Step 7: Cook Lemon Filling

Transfer the lemon filling to a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously and cook for 4-6 minutes until thickened significantly.

Step 8: Pour Filling Over Crust

Once thickened, pour it on top of the crust and level using a spatula.

Step 9: Refrigerate Bars

Refrigerate overnight or for at least 4-6 hours until fully hardened.

Step 10: Serve

Once ready, slice into bars, dust with powdered sugar on top if desired, and enjoy!

How to Serve Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

Serving your Vegan Lemon Bars can elevate the experience and make them even more delightful. Here are some creative serving suggestions to impress your guests or enjoy as a treat.

Pair with Fresh Berries

• Serve with a side of fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of color and flavor. The tartness complements the sweetness of the lemon bars beautifully.

Add a Dollop of Coconut Whipped Cream

• Top each bar with a spoonful of coconut whipped cream for added creaminess. This provides a lovely contrast to the tangy lemon filling.

Dust with Powdered Sugar

• Just before serving, sprinkle powdered sugar on top of the bars for an elegant touch. It enhances visual appeal while adding a hint of sweetness.

Serve with Herbal Tea

• Enjoy these bars alongside a warm cup of herbal tea. The soothing flavors can balance the tanginess of the lemon and make for a comforting snack.

Create a Dessert Platter

• Arrange cut pieces on a dessert platter alongside other vegan sweets like chocolate truffles or fruit tarts. This makes for an impressive display at gatherings.

How to Perfect Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

Achieving the perfect lemon bar requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you create the best Vegan Lemon Bars.

• Chill Before Serving: Allow the bars to chill in the refrigerator overnight for optimal firmness and flavor development.

• Use Fresh Lemons: Opt for freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest instead of bottled varieties. This enhances the flavor profile significantly.

• Don’t Overmix Filling: Blend your filling until smooth, but avoid overmixing as this can introduce excess air, affecting texture.

• Check Crust Color: Keep an eye on your crust while baking; it should be golden brown at the edges but not too dark to avoid bitterness.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Vegan Lemon Bars can enhance your dessert experience. Consider these complementary options:

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds variety and balances out sweetness.
2. Coconut Yogurt: Creamy coconut yogurt offers a rich texture that pairs well with lemon.
3. Chia Seed Pudding: This light and healthy option provides a satisfying contrast in texture.
4. Granola Parfait: Layer granola with fruits and dairy-free yogurt for a crunchy addition that complements the bars.
5. Vegan Ice Cream: A scoop of dairy-free ice cream brings a delightful creaminess that matches beautifully with lemon flavors.
6. Herbal Infusion Water: Infuse water with mint or cucumber for a refreshing drink that cleanses the palate between bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes while preparing a Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe. Here are some common pitfalls and tips to ensure your bars turn out perfectly.

• Skipping the crust preparation: Failing to mix the crust ingredients well can lead to a crumbly texture. Ensure everything is combined thoroughly for a solid base.
• Not cooling the crust: If you pour the lemon filling onto a hot crust, it can affect the texture. Allow the crust to cool completely before adding the filling.
• Overmixing the filling: Blending the filling too much can introduce air, affecting its smoothness. Blend just until creamy for best results.
• Ignoring refrigeration time: Rushing the chilling process can result in a runny filling. Be sure to refrigerate overnight or for at least 4-6 hours to allow it to set properly.
• Using fresh lemons without zesting: Skipping lemon zest means missing out on extra flavor. Always zest before juicing for a more vibrant taste.
• Inaccurate measurements: Using incorrect ratios of ingredients can ruin your bars. Measure carefully, especially with liquids and dry ingredients.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store vegan lemon bars in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Store them in an airtight freezer container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat bars for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat bars in 15-second intervals until slightly warm, being careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about this Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe.

Can I use regular butter instead of vegan butter?

You can substitute regular butter if you’re not following a vegan diet, but it may alter the flavor slightly.

How do I make gluten-free vegan lemon bars?

Using gluten-free all-purpose flour as listed in this recipe will ensure your lemon bars are gluten-free and delicious.

What can I use instead of cashews?

You can try using soaked almonds or sunflower seeds as alternatives for a similar creamy texture.

How long do these vegan lemon bars last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, these bars will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator or 3 months in the freezer.

Is this Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe suitable for kids?

Absolutely! These lemon bars are kid-friendly and provide a sweet yet tangy treat that’s perfect for all ages.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe offers a delightful balance of tanginess and sweetness that everyone will love. They’re versatile and can be customized with various toppings like coconut flakes or berries. Try making these delicious treats today!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the bright, zesty flavors of these Vegan Lemon Bars, a delightful blend of tangy and sweet that will leave your taste buds craving more. Perfect for any occasion—be it a gathering with friends, a picnic in the park, or simply a satisfying treat at home—these bars feature a rich, creamy filling atop a buttery crust. Made entirely from plant-based ingredients, they cater to diverse dietary preferences without compromising on flavor. With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this refreshing dessert that’s sure to impress everyone!

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Ingredients

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• 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
• 1 cup vegan butter
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup coconut cream
• 1/2 cup soaked cashews
• 1/2 cup lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup cornstarch
• pinch of salt
• pinch of turmeric (optional, for color)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine gluten-free flour, vegan butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt to form the crust mixture.
2. Line a square baking pan with parchment paper. Press the crust mixture evenly into the pan and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
3. While cooling, prepare the filling by blending coconut cream, soaked cashews, lemon juice and zest, maple syrup, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt until smooth.
4. Cook the filling in a saucepan over medium heat for 4-6 minutes until thickened. Pour over the cooled crust.
5. Refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours or overnight before slicing into bars.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Vegan

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar (45g)
• Calories: 190
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 55mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg