Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

This Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe is a delightful treat that brings a burst of tangy lemon flavor balanced with sweetness. These bars are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a refreshing dessert. The creamy filling and buttery crust create a harmonious blend that will surely impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have these vegan lemon bars ready in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of zesty lemon juice and creamy coconut cream delivers a refreshing taste that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for summer picnics, birthday parties, or just as a sweet treat after dinner.
• Gluten-Free Option: This recipe allows for gluten-free flour, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Made with wholesome components like maple syrup and cashews, these bars are a healthier alternative to traditional desserts.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious vegan lemon bars, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking pan (square)
• Parchment paper
• Greasing tool (coconut oil)
• Blender
• Saucepan
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl is crucial for combining the crust ingredients thoroughly.
• Baking pan: A square baking pan helps achieve the right shape for your lemon bars, ensuring even baking.
• Blender: A blender is key for creating a smooth filling that blends all flavors harmoniously.

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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 teaspoon 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: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 3: Line the Baking Pan

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

Step 4: 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 5: 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 6: Poke Holes in Crust

Take a fork and use it to poke holes all around the crust. Don’t poke all the way through; just about halfway will help hold everything together better.

Step 7: Prepare Lemon Filling

While cooling, prepare the lemon filling by blending together coconut cream, soaked cashews, lemon juice, zest, maple syrup, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cornstarch, salt, and turmeric until smooth.

Step 8: Cook Filling Mixture

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

Step 9: Pour Filling Over Crust

Once thickened, pour the lemon filling over your cooled crust and level using a spatula.

Step 10: Refrigerate Bars

Refrigerate your vegan lemon bars overnight or for at least 4-6 hours until fully set.

Step 11: Slice and Serve

Once they are ready, slice into squares, dust some powdered sugar on top if desired, and enjoy your delicious vegan lemon bars!

How to Serve Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

Vegan lemon bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

Pair with Fresh Berries

• Serve your lemon bars with a side of mixed fresh berries for a burst of flavor and color. Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries create a refreshing contrast to the tangy lemon filling.

Top with Coconut Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of coconut whipped cream on top of each bar for an extra creamy texture. This dairy-free option complements the citrusy notes beautifully.

Drizzle with Agave Syrup

• A light drizzle of agave syrup enhances the sweetness without overpowering the lemon flavor. This touch can make your dessert feel extra indulgent.

Serve with Tea or Herbal Infusion

• Enjoy your vegan lemon bars alongside a warm cup of tea or herbal infusion. Chamomile or mint tea works especially well, adding a soothing element to your dessert.

How to Perfect Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

To ensure your vegan lemon bars come out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides the best flavor compared to bottled options. It enhances the tanginess and aroma of your bars.

• Allow proper cooling time: Letting the bars cool completely before slicing is crucial. This step helps the filling set properly for cleaner cuts and better presentation.

• Experiment with sweeteners: You can replace maple syrup with other liquid sweeteners like agave or date syrup if desired. Each brings a unique flavor profile while keeping it vegan.

• Don’t skip the cornstarch: Cornstarch helps thicken the filling, giving it that perfect creamy consistency. Make sure to mix it well into your filling for optimal results.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

Vegan lemon bars pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the richness of the lemon bars.
2. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats bring additional coconut flavor that pairs nicely with the lemon.
3. Chilled Mint Cucumber Salad: The refreshing crunch of cucumber and mint provides a light contrast to the sweet tanginess.
4. Almond Biscotti: Crunchy almond biscotti can be dipped in tea or coffee, making for a delightful pairing with the dessert.
5. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: The rich chocolate complements the tartness of the lemon bars beautifully, creating a luxurious finish.
6. Granola Parfait: Layer granola with dairy-free yogurt and fruits for a satisfying dish that rounds out your dessert table perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a vegan lemon bar recipe, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final outcome. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision is key in baking. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure you get the correct amounts for the best results.
• Skipping the cooling time: Allowing the crust to cool before adding the filling is crucial. Skipping this step can result in a soggy bottom and uneven texture.
• Overbaking the crust: Keep an eye on your crust! Overbaking can lead to a dry texture. Remove it from the oven as soon as it turns golden brown.
• Using unsoaked cashews: For a smooth and creamy filling, soak your cashews beforehand. This will help blend them into a silky texture.
• Not letting the bars set properly: Patience is key! Refrigerate your bars for at least 4-6 hours or overnight to ensure they firm up correctly.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover vegan lemon bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Freezing Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

• Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes, covered with foil.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 15-20 seconds until just warm.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding this vegan lemon bar recipe.

Can I use regular flour instead of gluten-free flour?

Yes, you can substitute regular all-purpose flour if gluten-free options are not necessary.

How do I make these lemon bars sweeter?

If you’d like sweeter bars, consider adding more maple syrup or granulated sugar to taste while preparing the filling.

Can I add fruit to the vegan lemon bars?

Absolutely! You can mix in blueberries or raspberries into the filling for added flavor and texture.

What is a good substitute for coconut cream?

You can use cashew cream or silken tofu blended until smooth as an alternative to coconut cream.

How do I achieve a firmer filling?

To achieve a firmer filling, ensure you use enough cornstarch and allow adequate refrigeration time.

Final Thoughts

This vegan lemon bar recipe is not only delightful with its tangy and sweet flavors but also versatile. You can customize it by adding fruit or adjusting the sweetness according to your preference. Give this simple yet delicious treat a try; it’s sure to impress!