Two Ingredient Lemon Bars have completely changed my dessert game! They’re the easiest, brightest treat I’ve ever made, perfect for when I need something sweet in a pinch. I remember needing a last-minute dessert for a picnic, and these came to the rescue. The smell of sweet, tangy lemon filled my kitchen as they baked, and everyone raved about them. Seriously, if you’re looking for an easy 2 ingredient lemon bars recipe, this is it. It’s such a wonderfully quick lemon dessert with two ingredients that always impresses. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Two Ingredient Lemon Bars
These aren’t just any lemon bars; they’re a revelation! You’ll adore them because:
- The taste is incredibly bright and tangy, with a delightful sweetness that’s perfectly balanced.
- Prep time is practically non-existent – we’re talking just minutes to get them ready for the oven.
- They’re a wonderfully budget-friendly treat, proving delicious doesn’t need to be expensive.
- This simple lemon bar recipe is also incredibly family-friendly, loved by kids and adults alike.
- You get all the amazing flavor of traditional lemon bars with lemon bars no butter recipe, making them a lighter option.
- They’re a fantastic go-to for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to unexpected guests.
- The texture is light and fluffy, a pleasant surprise for a recipe this easy.
- It’s a foolproof dessert that’s hard to mess up, even if you’re new to baking.
Ingredients for Two Ingredient Lemon Bars
Get ready for the simplest baking experience ever! You only need two things to make these delightful lemon bars no flour recipe wonders. Think of these like a shortcut to sunshine in dessert form. If you’ve ever wanted to make condensed milk lemon bars without a fuss, this is your moment. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 box angel food cake mix (about 16 oz) – this is the magic base that gives our bars their airy texture
- 1 can lemon pie filling (about 21 oz) – this provides all the bright, tangy lemon flavor and moisture
How to Make Two Ingredient Lemon Bars
Let’s dive into this incredibly straightforward method for how to make 2 ingredient lemon bars. This recipe is so simple, you’ll be amazed at the delicious results. The process itself is very forgiving, making it ideal for bakers of all levels. Get ready to create a delightful treat that tastes like it took hours!
- Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, prepare your baking dish. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This prevents any sticking and ensures your bars come out perfectly.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the entire box of angel food cake mix with the can of lemon pie filling. I like to pour the filling in first, then dump the cake mix on top.
- Step 3: Stir the ingredients together gently but thoroughly until they are just combined and the mixture looks fluffy. It’s important not to overmix here; we want to keep that airy texture. You’ll notice the batter becomes light and slightly sticky.
- Step 4: Pour this delightful mixture into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the bottom. The batter will be thick, almost like a fluffy meringue.
- Step 5: Bake for 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for the top to turn a lovely golden brown color, and the center should feel set when gently touched. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out mostly clean. This indicates your lemon bar recipe condensed milk-style bars are ready.
- Step 6: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan. This cooling step is crucial for them to set properly. Once cooled, you can slice them into squares. For an extra touch, dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Pro Tips for the Best Two Ingredient Lemon Bars
Want to elevate these simple treats? Follow these expert tips for the most delicious results:
- Use a good quality lemon pie filling for the best flavor.
- Ensure your angel food cake mix is fresh; old mix can affect the texture.
- Don’t overbake! Overbaking can lead to dry, crumbly bars.
- Let the bars cool completely before slicing to prevent them from falling apart.
What’s the secret to perfect Two Ingredient Lemon Bars?
The true secret to a perfect batch is the combination of the airy cake mix and the tangy pie filling. This ratio creates a light, moist bar that’s hard to beat. It’s truly the best easy lemon bar recipe for its simplicity and delightful outcome.
Can I make Two Ingredient Lemon Bars ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the batter and pour it into the baking dish up to 24 hours in advance. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, proceed with the recipe, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time since the batter will be cold.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Two Ingredient Lemon Bars?
The most common pitfall is overmixing the batter, which can make the bars dense. Also, be careful not to overbake, as this can cause them to be dry. If your bars aren’t setting, it likely means they needed a few more minutes in the oven. You can find more baking tips on King Arthur Baking.
Best Ways to Serve Two Ingredient Lemon Bars
These delightful bars are incredibly versatile and make for fantastic two ingredient dessert ideas. For a classic presentation, simply dust them with a bit of powdered sugar right before serving. They pair wonderfully with a cup of hot tea or coffee, cutting through the sweetness with a bright, citrusy note. If you’re serving them at a gathering, consider a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream alongside for an extra touch of indulgence. They also look beautiful arranged on a platter with fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries, adding a pop of color and fresh flavor. For more serving inspiration, check out these food presentation ideas.
Nutrition Facts for Two Ingredient Lemon Bars
When you’re whipping up these simple treats, it’s good to have an idea of what you’re serving. Each of these delightful bars offers a burst of citrusy flavor. Here’s a general breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 190
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 150mg
Nutritional values are estimates and can vary slightly based on the specific brands of cake mix and lemon pie filling used. For more information on understanding nutrition labels, you can refer to the FDA’s guide.
How to Store and Reheat Two Ingredient Lemon Bars
Once your delightful two ingredient lemon bars have cooled completely, proper storage is key to maintaining their wonderful texture. I like to let them sit in the baking dish for at least an hour, or until they’re completely room temperature. Then, I cut them into squares. For the best freshness, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay delicious for about 3 to 4 days this way. If you find yourself with an abundance of these treats, you can also freeze them! Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and they’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a frozen bar, the easiest method is to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. For a slightly warmer treat, you can gently reheat them in a low oven (around 300°F or 150°C) for about 5-10 minutes until just warmed through. For more storage tips, see these storage solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Two Ingredient Lemon Bars
What are two ingredient lemon bars?
These are incredibly simple bars made with just two main ingredients: angel food cake mix and lemon pie filling. They are a testament to how minimal ingredients can still yield a fantastic dessert. The magic happens when these two components combine to create a light, fluffy, and tangy treat.
Can I use a different flavor of pie filling?
While lemon is classic, you could experiment with other fruity pie fillings like lime or even cherry for different flavor profiles. However, the bright tanginess of lemon is what truly makes these bars shine. Just be sure to use a filling that’s roughly the same weight as the lemon one.
Why are my lemon bars not setting?
If your two ingredient lemon bars aren’t setting, it’s usually because they needed a bit more baking time. Ensure the center looks set and a toothpick comes out mostly clean. Over-mixing the batter can also affect the final texture, making them less likely to set firmly. They should be light and fluffy, not dense.
Are these lemon bars no flour recipe friendly?
Yes, absolutely! These bars are naturally lemon bars no flour recipe wonders because the angel food cake mix provides the structure without traditional flour. This makes them a great option for those looking for flour-free alternatives in their baking.
Variations of Two Ingredient Lemon Bars You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, you’ll love exploring different lemon bar variations two ingredients can offer! For a gluten-free option, look for a specifically labeled gluten free two ingredient lemon bars mix, though finding an angel food cake mix that is certified gluten-free can be a challenge. Another fun idea is to add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter for an even more intense citrus punch. You could also try a lime pie filling for a slightly different twist. For a richer flavor, some people experiment with adding a swirl of cream cheese or a sprinkle of coconut flakes before baking – just be mindful these additions might alter the core simplicity of the original recipe. For more baking inspiration, explore these baking tips.
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The 2 Best Two Ingredient Lemon Bars
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12-16 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Two-Ingredient Lemon Bars are the ultimate in quick and easy desserts. With just lemon pie filling and angel food cake mix, you can whip up a bright, fluffy, and sweet treat that’s perfect for potlucks, last-minute gatherings, or when you’re simply craving something citrusy and light.
Ingredients
- 1 box angel food cake mix (1-step, about 16 oz)
- 1 can lemon pie filling (about 21 oz)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease or line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the entire box of angel food cake mix with the can of lemon pie filling. Stir until fully combined and fluffy—do not overmix.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set. A toothpick inserted should come out mostly clean.
- Let the bars cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, slice into squares and serve. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar for a finishing touch.
Notes
- Make sure to use a 1-step angel food cake mix, not the kind that requires separating eggs.
- These bars are naturally airy and moist, with a light tang from the lemon.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: N/A
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
- Fat: N/A
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: N/A
- Fiber: N/A
- Protein: N/A
- Cholesterol: N/A
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