Two-Ingredient Lemon Bars: The Easiest Dessert Ever
Introduction
Lemon bars are a classic dessert known for their sweet and tangy flavor. This two-ingredient version is unbelievably easy to make—no complicated steps, just mix, bake, and enjoy! These bars are soft, chewy, and bursting with bright lemon flavor, making them perfect for a quick treat or last-minute dessert.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Lemon desserts have been popular for centuries, with lemon bars becoming a staple in American baking. Traditionally, they consist of a shortbread crust and a lemon curd filling, but this simplified version delivers the same citrusy goodness with minimal effort. Perfect for busy bakers, these bars prove that great flavors don’t need long ingredient lists!
Ingredients Quantity
- 1 box (15.25 oz) of angel food cake mix
- 1 can (21 oz) of lemon pie filling
Optional Additions
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Lemon zest for extra flavor
- Vanilla extract (½ teaspoon) for a touch of warmth
- White chocolate chips for a sweet contrast
Tips for Success
- Mix gently – Overmixing can make the bars too dense.
- Use parchment paper – This prevents sticking and makes cutting easier.
- Cool before cutting – The bars firm up as they cool, making them easier to slice.
- Dust with powdered sugar – It enhances both the flavor and presentation.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix ingredients – In a large bowl, combine the angel food cake mix and lemon pie filling. Stir gently until just combined.
- Pour into pan – Spread the batter evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and set in the center.
- Cool completely, then slice into squares.
- Dust with powdered sugar (optional) and enjoy!
Description
These lemon bars are soft, chewy, and packed with citrus flavor. The angel food cake mix gives them a light, airy texture, while the lemon pie filling adds the perfect balance of sweetness and tang. With just two ingredients, this recipe is a game-changer for quick and delicious homemade desserts!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: ~120
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Sugar: 18g
Conclusion
These two-ingredient lemon bars are the ultimate easy dessert—simple, quick, and full of flavor. Whether you’re making them for a party, a snack, or just a sweet craving, they’re sure to be a hit!
Recommendation
For the best results, store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Serve with whipped cream or fresh berries for an extra special touch!
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Want to make these bars a little healthier? Try these swaps:
- Use a sugar-free angel food cake mix for lower sugar content.
- Opt for a homemade lemon filling using fresh lemon juice, honey, and cornstarch.
- Serve with Greek yogurt instead of powdered sugar for added protein.