Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

This Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe is a delightful treat that combines tangy and sweet flavors, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving something refreshing, these lemon bars are sure to impress. The creamy filling paired with a buttery crust creates an irresistible dessert that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have delicious lemon bars ready in no time.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of lemon juice and zest ensures a bright and zesty taste that will invigorate your palate.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for summer picnics, birthday parties, or a cozy afternoon treat – they’re suitable for any occasion.
• Dairy-Free Delight: Made without any animal products, these bars cater to vegan diets while still being delicious.
• Gluten-Free Option: You can easily swap in gluten-free flour to make this recipe friendly for gluten intolerances.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making your vegan lemon bars, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl is essential for thoroughly combining the crust ingredients without mess.
• Baking pan: Using a square pan helps create even bars that are easy to slice after cooling.
• Blender: A high-speed blender will help achieve that silky smooth texture in your lemon filling.

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 Lemon Filling

• 1 cups 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 the Baking Pan

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

Step 3: Press Down the 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 the Crust

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

Step 5: Poke Holes in the Crust

Take a fork and poke holes all around the crust. Don’t poke all the way through; just about halfway will do. This helps keep everything together.

Step 6: Prepare the Lemon Filling

While the crust cools, prepare your 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 the Filling

Transfer the lemon filling into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously and cook for 4-6 minutes until it thickens significantly and darkens in color.

Step 8: Pour Filling Over Crust

Once thickened, pour it on top of your cooled crust. Level off with a spatula.

Step 9: Refrigerate

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

Step 10: Serve

After chilling, slice into bars, dust with powdered sugar on top if desired, and enjoy!

How to Serve Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

Vegan lemon bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether serving them at a gathering or enjoying them as a personal snack, these bars can be paired with other foods and drinks to enhance their flavor.

Pair with Fresh Berries

• Serve your lemon bars with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. The tartness of the berries complements the sweet and tangy flavors of the lemon bars perfectly.

Add Whipped Coconut Cream

• A dollop of whipped coconut cream on top adds a creamy texture that balances the tanginess of the lemon bars. Simply whip chilled coconut cream until fluffy for a delicious topping.

Enjoy with Herbal Tea

• Pair your lemon bars with a cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile or peppermint. The warmth of the tea enhances the citrus notes and makes for a relaxing dessert experience.

Garnish with Mint Leaves

• Adding fresh mint leaves as garnish not only looks appealing but also provides a refreshing flavor contrast to the rich lemon filling.

Serve with a Dusting of Powdered Sugar

• For an elegant touch, dust your vegan lemon bars with powdered sugar just before serving. This simple step elevates their presentation and adds a touch of sweetness.

How to Perfect Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

Creating the perfect vegan lemon bar requires attention to detail and some helpful tips. Follow these suggestions for an even better outcome.

• Choose Fresh Lemons: Use fresh lemons for juice and zest to ensure maximum flavor. Bottled lemon juice lacks the vibrant taste that fresh lemons provide.

• Properly Soak Cashews: Soaking cashews for at least 4 hours allows them to blend smoothly into the filling, resulting in a creamier texture.

• Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on the crust while baking; it should be golden brown but not overly crunchy. This ensures a soft base for your filling.

• Let Them Chill: Refrigerating the bars overnight helps them set properly, making them easier to slice without falling apart.

• Experiment with Sweetness: Adjust the amount of maple syrup based on your sweetness preference; this will allow you to customize the flavor to suit your taste buds.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

Pairing side dishes with vegan lemon bars can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some ideas that complement their bright flavors beautifully.

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and can balance the sweetness of the lemon bars.
2. Vegan Cheesecake Bites: Small portions of vegan cheesecake provide a rich contrast to the lightness of lemon bars.
3. Chia Seed Pudding: This creamy pudding is nutritious and offers a subtle sweetness that pairs well with tangy desserts.
4. Almond Biscotti: Crunchy almond biscotti can add texture and make for a delightful dipping companion for your lemon bars.
5. Coconut Macaroons: These sweet treats pair wonderfully with citrus flavors, enhancing the overall dessert experience.
6. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: The richness of chocolate complements the tartness of lemon, creating a delicious combination.
7. Matcha Green Tea Cookies: Their earthy flavor contrasts nicely against sweet desserts like vegan lemon bars.
8. Carrot Sticks with Hummus: A savory side option that balances out sweets and provides great crunch alongside your dessert selection.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe, there are a few common pitfalls that can affect the final result. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Not measuring accurately: Precision is key in baking. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure you get the right amounts of each ingredient.
• Skipping the cooling time: Allowing the crust to cool before adding the filling helps maintain its structure. Don’t rush this step!
• Overmixing the filling: Blend just until smooth; overmixing can introduce air bubbles that affect texture. Aim for a creamy consistency.
• Ignoring refrigeration time: The filling needs adequate time to set. Be patient and refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours, or overnight for best results.
• Using too much lemon juice: While you want that tangy flavor, too much can make the bars too tart. Stick to the recommended amount for a balanced taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place bars on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual bars on low power for 20-30 seconds until just warmed through.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick pan over low heat; cover and warm gently for 5 minutes, flipping halfway.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe?

A Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe offers a plant-based twist on traditional lemon bars, using ingredients like coconut cream and cashews instead of dairy.

How do I make my Vegan Lemon Bars gluten-free?

To make your Vegan Lemon Bars gluten-free, simply use gluten-free all-purpose flour as stated in the recipe.

Can I customize my Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe?

Yes! Feel free to add berries or nuts on top of your lemon filling before refrigerating for added flavor and texture.

How long do Vegan Lemon Bars last?

Vegan Lemon Bars can last up to 5 days when stored properly in the refrigerator.

Can I use other citrus fruits instead of lemons?

Absolutely! Oranges or limes can be used as substitutes for a different flavor profile in your vegan lemon bars.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different flavors or toppings. Perfect as a refreshing dessert, these bars are sure to impress family and friends. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the sweet and tangy goodness!