Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

This Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe is a delightful treat that marries tangy lemon flavor with a sweet, creamy filling. It’s perfect for birthdays, picnics, or as a refreshing dessert after dinner. These bars stand out not just for their delicious taste but also for being vegan and gluten-free, making them suitable for various dietary preferences. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a batch that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe uses straightforward methods and common ingredients, making it accessible for all skill levels.
• Deliciously Tangy: The bright lemon flavor shines through in every bite, offering the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity.
• Healthier Alternative: Made with vegan butter and natural sweeteners, these bars are a guilt-free indulgence.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for any occasion—serve them at parties, enjoy them as a snack, or indulge yourself after a long day.
• Gluten-Free Option: With gluten-free flour, this recipe caters to those with gluten sensitivities without compromising flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience seamless, gather the necessary tools before starting this Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe. Having everything ready will speed up the process and ensure you don’t miss any steps.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Blender
• Saucepan
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients evenly without spilling.
• Baking pan: A square pan provides the perfect shape for cutting even bars.
• Blender: Ensures the filling is smooth and creamy—no lumps!
• Spatula: Helps spread the lemon filling evenly on the crust for consistent texture.

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 until fully incorporated.

Step 2: Line Your Baking Pan

Line a square baking pan with parchment paper and grease it lightly with coconut oil to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Press Down the Crust

Transfer the crust mixture into your prepared baking pan. Use a spoon or the flat bottom of a cup to press down firmly on the crust until it is level.

Step 4: Bake the Crust

Bake the crust in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown. Once done, remove from the oven and allow it to cool at room temperature.

Step 5: Poke Holes in the Crust

Using a fork, poke holes across the surface of the cooled crust—don’t go all the way through! This step helps keep both crust and filling together better during baking.

Step 6: Make the Lemon Filling

While your crust cools, prepare your lemon filling by combining coconut cream, soaked cashews, lemon juice, lemon zest, maple syrup, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cornstarch, salt, and turmeric in a blender. Blend until super smooth and creamy.

Step 7: Cook the Filling

Transfer this mixture into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously while cooking for about 4-6 minutes until it thickens significantly.

Step 8: Pour Over Crust

Once thickened, pour your luscious lemon filling over the prepared crust. Use a spatula to level it off nicely.

Step 9: Refrigerate

Refrigerate your vegan lemon bars overnight or at least for 4-6 hours until they harden completely.

Step 10: Slice & Serve

When ready to serve, slice into bars and dust with powdered sugar if desired. Enjoy your refreshing vegan lemon bars!

How to Serve Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

Vegan lemon bars are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways to enhance their flavor and presentation. Here are some serving suggestions to make your vegan lemon bars even more enjoyable.

With Fresh Berries

• Strawberries: Serve with sliced strawberries for a refreshing contrast.
• Raspberries: These tart berries add a vibrant color and flavor.

Drizzled with Coconut Cream

• Creamy Topping: A drizzle of coconut cream on top adds richness and enhances the tropical notes.

Garnished with Mint

• Fresh Mint Leaves: Add a sprig of mint for a pop of color and a refreshing aroma.

Paired with Herbal Tea

• Chamomile or Peppermint: Herbal teas complement the tanginess of the bars beautifully.

Served Chilled

• Refrigerate: Enjoy these lemon bars straight from the fridge for an extra refreshing treat on hot days.

Dusting of Powdered Sugar

• Sweet Finish: A light dusting of powdered sugar on top makes them visually appealing and adds sweetness.

How to Perfect Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

Perfecting your vegan lemon bar recipe ensures you achieve that ideal balance of tangy and sweet flavors. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use fresh lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides the best flavor compared to bottled juice.
• Soak cashews properly: Soaking cashews for at least 4 hours helps achieve a creamy filling.
• Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on the crust while baking to avoid over-browning.
• Cool completely before slicing: Allow the bars to cool fully for cleaner cuts and better texture.
• Experiment with zest: Adding more lemon zest can enhance the citrus aroma and flavor.
• Store correctly: Keep leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for maximum freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your vegan lemon bars can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Coconut Sorbet: A light, refreshing option that complements the lemon flavor perfectly.
2. Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances sweetness.
3. Almond Biscotti: Crunchy biscotti offer a delightful texture contrast to creamy lemon bars.
4. Chia Seed Pudding: This creamy dessert provides a healthy twist and pairs well with citrus.
5. Herbal Infused Water: Refreshing water infused with herbs like basil or mint enhances hydration.
6. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: The rich chocolate offers a decadent contrast to tangy lemon bars.
7. Lemonade Spritzer: A fizzy drink made with lemonade brings out citrus flavors in the dessert.
8. Nuts & Dried Fruits Mix: A crunchy, chewy snack option perfect for munching alongside your dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe, a few common mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are some to watch out for:

• Skipping the crust preparation: The crust is essential for texture. Ensure you combine ingredients well and press them firmly into the baking pan.

• Not cooling the crust properly: Allowing the crust to cool helps it set before adding the filling. Don’t rush this step; it ensures a better texture overall.

• Over-blending the filling: Blend just enough to achieve creaminess. Over-blending can introduce too much air, affecting the final consistency of your lemon bars.

• Ignoring thickness during cooking: It’s crucial to stir continuously while cooking the filling. This helps achieve the right thickness for your bars, so don’t leave it unattended.

• Cutting bars too soon: Patience is key! Letting your lemon bars chill in the fridge allows them to set completely, making them easier to cut.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator for optimal freshness.

Freezing Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

• Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• These can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 10 minutes for a fresh taste.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid and warming gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe:

How can I make these vegan lemon bars gluten-free?

You can easily substitute regular all-purpose flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour. This keeps your recipe both vegan and gluten-free!

What if I don’t have coconut cream?

If you don’t have coconut cream, you can use full-fat coconut milk instead. Just make sure to refrigerate it beforehand so it thickens up.

Can I customize my lemon bars?

Absolutely! Consider adding blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist or mixing in some chia seeds for added nutrition.

How do I know when my filling is ready?

Your filling should thicken significantly and darken slightly after cooking for 4-6 minutes on medium heat. Keep stirring continuously!

Can I use other sweeteners instead of maple syrup?

Yes! You may substitute agave nectar or any liquid sweetener of your choice while keeping in mind that sweetness levels may vary.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe is not only simple but also bursting with flavor. Its tangy yet sweet profile appeals to everyone, making it perfect for gatherings or as a snack at home. Feel free to customize it with your favorite fruits or toppings, ensuring every batch is unique!

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: Jennifer
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: About 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the refreshing taste of our Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe, a delightful treat that offers a perfect blend of tangy lemon flavor and a creamy, sweet filling. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also caters to various dietary needs, being both vegan and gluten-free. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a dessert that’s ideal for any occasion—be it birthdays, picnics, or a light ending to your dinner. Everyone will adore these luscious bars!

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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
• 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 crust ingredients and mix until well blended.
2. Line a square baking pan with parchment paper and press the crust mixture evenly into the pan. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
3. For the filling, blend all filling ingredients until smooth. Cook in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring continuously for about 4-6 minutes until thickened.
4. Pour the filling over the cooled crust and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before slicing.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar (45g)
• Calories: 170
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg