Lemon Gooey Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Lemon Gooey Bars are quick to make and packed with flavor, combining the tangy zest of fresh lemon with the smooth richness of white chocolate and sweetened condensed milk. They are soft and gooey on the inside, with just the right amount of sweetness. The combination of lemon curd and white chocolate chips gives these bars a unique texture that’s both creamy and chewy. Perfect for lemon lovers, this easy recipe is a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal ingredients and preparation. If you love desserts that are both tangy and sweet, these bars are sure to become a favorite!

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 15 ounce box lemon cake mix (just the cake mix)
• 1 large egg
• Zest from one lemon
• 1/3 cup lemon curd
• 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, lemon cake mix, and egg. Stir until the mixture is well combined and forms a dough-like consistency.
3. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the base layer.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the lemon curd, lemon zest, white chocolate chips, and sweetened condensed milk. Mix until smooth and well combined.
5. Pour the lemon curd mixture over the crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set (a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean).
7. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields about 9-12 servings, depending on how large you cut the bars. Preparation takes about 10-15 minutes, with a baking time of 25-30 minutes. The total time for making these bars is approximately 40-45 minutes.

Variations

• Lemon and Blueberry: Add a handful of fresh blueberries to the lemon curd mixture for a fruity twist.
• Coconut Lemon Bars: Stir in some shredded coconut to the filling mixture for added texture and flavor.
• Berry Topping: Top the bars with fresh berries, such as raspberries or strawberries, before serving.
• Lemon Poppy Seed: Add 1-2 tablespoons of poppy seeds to the lemon cake mix for a traditional lemon poppy seed flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store Lemon Gooey Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate them for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: If you prefer them warm, heat individual portions in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

Can I make these bars in advance?

Yes, you can make these bars up to 2 days in advance and store them in an airtight container.

Can I use a different cake mix?

While lemon cake mix works best for the flavor, you can substitute with yellow or vanilla cake mix for a more neutral base flavor. However, this will alter the lemony taste of the bars.

How can I make the bars more tart?

If you prefer more tartness, add a little more lemon zest to the cake mix or stir in some extra lemon juice to the curd mixture.

Can I freeze Lemon Gooey Bars?

Yes, you can freeze these bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.

Do I need to use white chocolate chips?

No, you can substitute with other types of chips, such as dark chocolate or milk chocolate, depending on your preference.

Can I use homemade lemon curd instead of store-bought?

Yes, homemade lemon curd works wonderfully in this recipe. Just make sure it’s cooled before using it in the bars.

Can I make these bars without the sweetened condensed milk?

The sweetened condensed milk adds richness and helps create the gooey texture. While it’s best to keep it, you could try using a substitute like evaporated milk with sugar, but the texture may not be as creamy.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The bars are done when the edges are golden, and the center is set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few crumbs.

Can I use a larger pan?

If you use a larger pan (such as a 9×13-inch pan), you may need to adjust the baking time. The bars will be thinner, so check for doneness 5-10 minutes earlier.

What other toppings can I add to the bars?

You can top the bars with a dusting of powdered sugar, fresh berries, or even whipped cream for a decadent dessert.

Conclusion

Lemon Gooey Bars are the perfect dessert for anyone who loves the combination of tangy lemon and creamy sweetness. With a simple set of ingredients and minimal preparation, these bars are a treat that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re serving them at a party, for a family gathering, or just enjoying a sweet snack at home, these gooey bars are sure to satisfy your cravings. Make them today and enjoy the delightful balance of lemony tartness and creamy richness in every bite!

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