I love baking, and lemon desserts are my favorite. The mix of tart and sweet is amazing. This easy lemon bars recipe with cake mix was a game-changer for me. It’s a twist on classic lemon bars that’s incredibly delicious.
Life gets busy, and baking from scratch can be tough. That’s why I’m sharing this recipe with you. It’s perfect for those who love homemade treats but don’t have all day to bake. With a simple cake mix, you can make a tasty lemon bar for any event or just a cozy afternoon.
Introduction to Quick and Easy Lemon Bars
Lemon bars are a classic dessert that adds a burst of citrus flavor to any occasion. This simple recipe using cake mix makes homemade lemon bars easy to make. These lemon bar cake mix recipe bars are a simplified version of the beloved treat, perfect for busy home bakers.
Why Cake Mix Makes These Bars Special
Using cake mix as the base ingredient for these shortbread lemon bars is a game-changer. It creates a consistent and effortless crust that complements the tangy lemon filling. This shortcut saves time and ensures a delightful texture every time.
Benefits of Using Shortcut Ingredients
The convenience of using cake mix and other shortcut ingredients makes these lemon bar cookies accessible to bakers of all skill levels. Whether you’re an experienced home chef or a novice, this recipe allows you to whip up a batch of irresistible lemon bars with minimal effort. The result is a homemade-tasting dessert that will impress your friends and family.
Perfect Occasions for Lemon Bars
These lemon crust bars are versatile and suitable for a variety of occasions. They’re perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, holiday gatherings, and afternoon tea. Their bright, tangy flavor and irresistible texture make them a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s sure to be a hit.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Rating | 4.47 out of 5 |
| Serving Size | 24 bars |
| Preparation Time | 10 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 35 minutes |
| Total Time | 45 minutes |
Essential Ingredients and Equipment Needed
To make the perfect lemon bars with a cake mix, you’ll need a few simple ingredients and basic kitchen tools. First, the key ingredients include a box of lemon cake mix, melted butter, eggs, cream cheese, vanilla extract, powdered sugar, and fresh lemon zest. It’s important to use room temperature ingredients, like the cream cheese and eggs, for a smooth and creamy texture.
For the equipment, a 9×13 inch baking dish is recommended. A glass dish is preferred over a metal one to avoid any metallic taste. You’ll also need a large mixing bowl, a spatula, and some non-stick cooking spray or parchment paper to line the baking dish.
One important note is that this recipe only calls for the dry cake mix, not the prepared batter. The combination of the cake mix, melted butter, and other ingredients creates a unique and delicious lemon bar with a cake-like base.
With these simple, easy-to-find ingredients and basic kitchen tools, you’ll be well on your way to making a batch of irresistible lemon bars with a cake mix. Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions next!
Lemon Bars Recipe With Cake Mix: Step-by-Step Instructions
Making lemon bars with cake mix is quick and easy. Follow these steps to make delicious bars. You’ll need cake mix, lemon pie filling, and a few basic ingredients.
Preparing the Cake Mix Base
First, preheat your oven to 350°F. In a big bowl, mix the dry cake mix, one egg, and melted butter. Stir until it’s smooth and crumbly. Press this dough into a greased 9×13-inch pan for the base.
Creating the Lemon Filling
Now, make the lemon filling. In another bowl, mix cream cheese, two eggs, vanilla, powdered sugar, and lemon zest. Spread this over the cake mix base.
Baking and Cooling Tips
Put the pan in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. The edges should be golden. Let the bars cool completely before cutting. Refrigerate them for at least 2 hours to set the filling.
Using pre-made lemon pie filling is a shortcut. But, these bars with cake mix are great for any event. They’re a tasty lemon bar recipe.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Dry cake mix | 1 box |
| Eggs | 3 |
| Butter, melted | 1/2 cup |
| Cream cheese, softened | 8 oz |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
| Powdered sugar | 2 cups |
| Lemon zest | 2 tbsp |
Tips for Perfect Results Every Time
Want to make delicious lemon bars with a cake mix base? Follow these tips for perfect results every time. Using real butter and adding extra lemon flavor will elevate your dessert.
- Choose real butter for the best taste and texture. Margarine or substitutes can make your bars taste off or feel greasy.
- For yellow cake mix, add a teaspoon of lemon extract. This boosts the citrus flavor, matching the lemon pie filling perfectly.
- Use parchment paper to line your metal pan. It prevents a metallic taste in your bars, keeping them fresh and clean.
- Ensure your cake mix base isn’t too crumbly. If it’s dry, add a bit more melted butter until it’s moist and pliable.
- For more lemon flavor, add more lemon zest or a tablespoon or two of fresh lemon juice.
Follow these easy tips to make perfect lemon bars every time. They’re great for family gatherings or special occasions.
| Ingredient | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Real Butter | Provides rich, creamy flavor and texture |
| Lemon Extract | Enhances the lemon taste in yellow cake mix |
| Parchment Paper | Prevents metallic taste from metal baking pan |
| Lemon Zest and Juice | Intensifies the fresh, citrusy flavor of the bars |
Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions
Enjoy the bright, tangy flavors of easy lemon bars anytime. They’re perfect for making ahead, saving you from last-minute stress. These treats are light, flaky, and covered in a luscious lemon glaze.
Refrigeration Guidelines
Keep your homemade lemon bars fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The cold keeps them light and flaky, and the glaze stays just right. Always cover them to keep flavors in and prevent drying.
Freezing Methods
- Freeze your lemon bars for up to 2 months to keep them longer.
- Wrap each bar or the whole block in plastic wrap and foil to avoid freezer burn.
- Thaw frozen bars in the fridge overnight for a fresh taste.
Thawing and Serving
For the best taste and texture, keep lemon bars in the fridge. Thaw frozen bars in the fridge overnight. Or, let refrigerated bars sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cook & Serve Lemon Pudding | 4.3 oz |
| Angel Food cake mix | 1 box |
| Baking temperature | 350 degrees |
| Shelf life of lemon bars | Up to 7 days |
| Baking time | Approximately 20 minutes |
| Baking pan size | 9 x 13 |
| Egg yolks used | 2 |
| Water needed | 2 ¼ cups |
Serving Suggestions and Variations
These easy lemon bars are super versatile. Enjoy them chilled for a cool treat or at room temperature for a cozy dessert. Before serving, dust them with powdered sugar for a classic touch.
For extra flavor, try a lemon glaze over the cooled bars. It boosts the lemon taste. You can also add fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries for color and extra sweetness.
Want to try something different? Use lime or orange juice and zest instead of lemon. These changes give your lemon bars a new twist. You can even add cream cheese frosting for a creamier texture.
| Serving Suggestion | Description |
|---|---|
| Chilled Lemon Bars | Serve the lemon bars straight from the refrigerator for a refreshing, cool treat. |
| Lemon Glaze | Drizzle a simple lemon glaze over the cooled lemon bars to enhance the citrus flavor. |
| Topped with Berries | Add a burst of freshness by topping the lemon bars with blueberries, raspberries, or a mix of both. |
| Citrus Variations | Try using lime or orange juice and zest instead of lemon for a different citrus twist. |
| Cream Cheese Frosting | For a richer, creamier texture, top the lemon bars with a cream cheese frosting. |
No matter how you serve them, these lemon bars are a hit. Their bright lemon flavor and moist texture make them perfect for any occasion.
Conclusion
The lemon bars recipe with cake mix is a delightful dessert. It mixes lemon’s refreshing taste with cake’s sweetness. This recipe is easy and perfect for all bakers, great for any occasion.
With a 4.41 out of 5 rating, it’s a hit with many. It’s quick to prepare and bake, making it ideal for those in a hurry. It also makes 16 servings, perfect for sharing.
Looking for a tangy and sweet treat? Or need a simple dessert for a gathering? This lemon bars recipe is perfect. The lemon and buttery cake mix create a delicious balance. Try it out and enjoy the tasty results!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the key difference between this lemon bars recipe and the classic version?
This recipe uses cake mix, which makes it quicker and easier than the traditional shortbread crust. It saves time and ensures a consistent base for the lemon filling.
What are the benefits of using cake mix in this lemon bars recipe?
Cake mix has several advantages. It saves time and effort, making it perfect for beginners. It also offers a delicious taste without the need for complex preparation.
What occasions are these lemon bars suitable for?
These lemon bars are great for many occasions. They’re perfect for summer picnics, holiday gatherings, and everyday treats. They’re also ideal for bridal showers and baby showers.
What are the key ingredients needed for this recipe?
You’ll need lemon cake mix, butter, eggs, cream cheese, vanilla extract, powdered sugar, and lemon zest.
What type of baking dish is recommended for this recipe?
Use a 9×13 inch baking dish. A glass dish is preferred to avoid a metallic taste.
How should the ingredients be prepared for best results?
Make sure all ingredients, like cream cheese and eggs, are at room temperature. This ensures smooth mixing and consistent results. Only use the dry cake mix, not the prepared batter.
Can this recipe be customized or varied?
Yes, you can customize this recipe in many ways. Try using lemon pie filling instead of making a separate lemon layer. Add extra lemon zest or juice for more citrus flavor. Experiment with lime or orange instead of lemon. Top with a lemon glaze, cream cheese frosting, or fresh fruit.
How should the lemon bars be stored and how long do they last?
Store lemon bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze for 1-2 months. Wrap in plastic wrap before freezing. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
