- **Vanilla extract** (1 teaspoon) - Adds depth to the flavor profile.
- **Powdered sugar** (optional, for dusting) - For a sweet finishing touch.
**Optional Add-ins**:
- **Chopped nuts** (e.g., almonds or walnuts) - For added crunch.
- **Shredded coconut** - Adds texture and tropical flavor.
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Steps
# How to Make Delicious Lemon Oatmeal Bars: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you're looking for a tangy, sweet, and wholesome treat, these **lemon oatmeal bars** are the perfect choice. Packed with zesty lemon flavor, chewy oats, and a buttery crust, this dessert is easy to make and sure to impress. Follow these detailed steps to create your own batch of **homemade lemon oatmeal bars** that are perfect for snacks, dessert, or even breakfast!
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## **Ingredients for Lemon Oatmeal Bars**
To make these **easy lemon oatmeal bars**, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- **For the crust and topping:**
- 1 ½ cups rolled oats (old-fashioned oats work best)
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter (cold, cut into cubes)
- **For the lemon filling:**
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
- Zest of 2 lemons
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## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
### **Step 1: Preheat and Prepare**
1. Preheat your oven to **350°F (175°C)**.
2. Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
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### **Step 2: Make the Oatmeal Crust**
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine **1 ½ cups rolled oats**, **1 ½ cups flour**, **¾ cup sugar**, and **¼ teaspoon salt**.
2. Add the **cold cubed butter** and use a pastry cutter or your hands to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Reserve **1 cup** of the mixture for the topping. Press the remaining mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust.
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### **Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Filling**
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together **1 cup sugar** and **3 tablespoons flour**.
2. Add the **3 eggs**, **½ cup lemon juice**, and **zest of 2 lemons**. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
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### **Step 4: Assemble the Bars**
1. Pour the lemon filling over the prepared crust, spreading it evenly.
2. Sprinkle the reserved **1 cup of oatmeal mixture** over the lemon filling to create a crumbly topping.
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### **Step 5: Bake and Cool**
1. Bake in the preheated oven for **30-35 minutes**, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
2. Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
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### **Step 6: Slice and Serve**
1. Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan.
2. Cut into squares or rectangles and serve. For extra freshness, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
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## **Tips for Perfect Lemon Oatmeal Bars**
- Use **fresh lemon juice** for the best flavor.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
- Add a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of lemon glaze for extra sweetness.
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These **lemon oatmeal bars** are a delightful combination of tangy and sweet, with a satisfying texture from the oats. Perfect for any occasion, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Try this **easy lemon dessert recipe** today and enjoy the bright, citrusy flavors!