Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

This Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe is a delightful treat that perfectly balances sweet and tangy flavors. Ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family gathering or a festive celebration, these bars are sure to impress. The creamy filling and crumbly crust make them a standout dessert that’s both satisfying and refreshing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh lemon juice and creamy coconut results in a tangy yet sweet taste that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Versatile Dessert: Enjoy these bars as a refreshing summer treat or serve them during holidays for a citrusy twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: By using gluten-free flour, these bars can be enjoyed by those with gluten sensitivities without sacrificing flavor.
• Plant-Based Goodness: Made entirely from vegan ingredients, these lemon bars are kind to your diet and the planet.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your vegan lemon bars, gather the necessary tools and equipment to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor or blender
• Square baking pan (9×9 inches)
• Mixing bowls
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor or blender: Essential for achieving the smooth texture of the lemon filling by blending all ingredients effortlessly.
• Square baking pan: A must-have for creating evenly shaped bars that slice beautifully.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping down the sides of bowls and spreading the lemon filling evenly on top of the crust.

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 combined.

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 Mixture

Transfer the crust mixture into the prepared baking pan. Use a spoon or the flat bottom of a cup to press down firmly on the crust, creating an even layer at the bottom.

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. Remove from oven and let it cool at room temperature.

Step 5: Poke Holes in Crust

Use a fork to poke holes all around the crust but not all the way through. This step helps keep both layers together when they set.

Step 6: Prepare the Lemon Filling

While waiting for your crust to cool, prepare your lemon filling. In a blender, combine coconut cream, soaked cashews, lemon juice, zest, maple syrup, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cornstarch, salt, and turmeric. Blend until super smooth and creamy.

Step 7: Cook Filling on Stovetop

Pour your blended filling into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously as it cooks for about 4-6 minutes until it thickens significantly and darkens in color.

Step 8: Pour Filling Over Crust

Once thickened, pour your lemon filling over the cooled crust. Use a spatula to level out the top evenly.

Step 9: Refrigerate Your Bars

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

Step 10: Slice & Serve

When ready to serve, slice your vegan lemon bars into squares. Dust with powdered sugar if desired before enjoying!

How to Serve Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

Vegan lemon bars are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your vegan lemon bar experience.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the bars on a colorful dessert platter for an eye-catching centerpiece at gatherings or parties.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve your lemon bars alongside fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a refreshing contrast to the tangy flavors.

Topped with Coconut Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of coconut whipped cream on top for added richness and a creamy texture that complements the tanginess.

Dusted with Powdered Sugar

• Dust the finished bars with powdered sugar right before serving for a beautiful presentation and an extra hint of sweetness.

Paired with Herbal Tea

• Enjoy your lemon bars with a cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile or mint, to balance the sweetness and enhance the overall experience.

How to Perfect Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

To achieve the ultimate vegan lemon bars, consider these helpful tips that will elevate your recipe.

• Use fresh lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides the best flavor compared to bottled juice, making your filling vibrant and zesty.
• Soak cashews properly: Soaking cashews helps create a smoother filling. Aim for at least 4 hours or overnight for optimal texture.
• Chill thoroughly: Allow the bars to chill in the refrigerator for at least 4-6 hours. This ensures they set properly and develop their full flavor.
• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add other citrus zest, like lime or orange, to create unique variations of your vegan lemon bars.
• Adjust sweetness: Taste the filling before pouring it onto the crust. You can adjust the sweetness by adding more maple syrup or sugar if desired.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

Vegan lemon bars pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their bright flavors. Here’s a list of tasty options.

1. Coconut Chia Pudding
   A creamy and refreshing pudding made from coconut milk and chia seeds, perfect for breakfast or dessert.

2. Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the sweetness of the lemon bars.

3. Minty Quinoa Salad
   A light salad featuring quinoa, fresh mint, cucumber, and a citrus dressing enhances your meal’s healthiness and flavors.

4. Classic Green Salad
   A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast to dessert.

5. Lemon Sorbet
   This frozen treat offers an additional citrus kick while cleansing the palate after enjoying lemon bars.

6. Almond Biscotti
   Crunchy almond biscotti make for a perfect pairing—great for dipping into tea or coffee alongside your dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe, it’s easy to overlook certain steps. Here are common mistakes to watch for:

• Skipping the crust prep: Failing to properly mix and press the crust can lead to a crumbly texture. Make sure to combine all crust ingredients well before pressing them into the pan.

• Not cooling the crust: If you pour the filling onto a hot crust, it may not set correctly. Always let the crust cool at room temperature before adding the lemon filling.

• Overbaking the crust: Baking too long can cause a dry crust. Keep an eye on it and remove it when it’s golden brown around the edges.

• Ignoring blending time: A chunky filling will negatively impact texture. Blend until completely smooth and creamy for best results.

• Cutting too soon: Slicing the bars before they have fully set leads to messy servings. Refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours, or overnight, for perfect slices.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
• Can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm bars for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one bar at a time for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about the Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe.

Can I use different sweeteners in this vegan lemon bar recipe?

Yes, you can substitute maple syrup with agave nectar or coconut sugar if desired.

What can I use instead of cashews?

You can try silken tofu or sunflower seeds as alternatives if you want to avoid nuts.

How do I make my vegan lemon bars gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free all-purpose flour, which works perfectly in this Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe.

Can I add more flavors to this recipe?

Absolutely! You can incorporate other citrus zest like lime or orange for an exciting twist on flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with various zests or toppings. It’s perfect for any occasion and is sure to impress everyone!