Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

This Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe is a delightful blend of tangy and sweet flavors, making it the perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating a special event, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these bars are sure to impress. Rich in taste and easy to make, they serve as a refreshing treat that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh lemon juice and zest creates a bright, zesty flavor that balances perfectly with the creamy filling.
• Versatile Dessert: These vegan lemon bars can be enjoyed at parties, picnics, or as a simple snack at home.
• Gluten-Free Option: Using gluten-free flour allows those with dietary restrictions to enjoy this sweet treat without worry.
• Healthier Choice: Made with natural sweeteners like maple syrup, these bars offer a guilt-free indulgence.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delectable vegan lemon bars, you’ll need some essential tools that make the process easier. With the right equipment, you’ll ensure your baking experience goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking pan (square)
• Parchment paper
• Blender
• Spatula
• Fork

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to easily combine ingredients without making a mess.
• Baking pan: Using a square baking pan ensures even cooking and makes it simple to slice the bars after cooling.
• Blender: A blender helps achieve that super smooth filling consistency, making for a creamy texture in every bite.

Ingredients

For this Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe, gather the following ingredients:

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.

Step 2: Line and Grease the Baking Pan

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

Step 3: Press Down the 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 4: Bake the Crust

Bake the crust for 15-20 minutes at 350°F until the edges are golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool at room temperature.

Step 5: Poke Holes in the 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 it hold together better.

Step 6: Prepare the Lemon Filling

While cooling, prepare your lemon filling by adding coconut cream, soaked cashews, lemon juice and zest, maple syrup, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cornstarch, salt, and turmeric into a blender. Blend until super smooth and creamy.

Step 7: Cook Lemon Filling

Transfer this mixture into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously for 4-6 minutes until it thickens significantly and darkens in color.

Step 8: Pour Filling Over Crust

Once thickened, pour the lemon filling over the prepared crust. Level out using a spatula for an even surface.

Step 9: Chill in Refrigerator

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

Step 10: Slice and Serve

Once set, slice your vegan lemon bars into squares. Dust with powdered sugar on top before serving for an extra touch of sweetness! Enjoy!

How to Serve Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

Vegan lemon bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience with this tangy dessert.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries on the side for a fresh and fruity complement to the tartness of the lemon bars.

Topped with Coconut Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of coconut whipped cream on top for a creamy texture that balances the zesty flavor of the bars.

Drizzled with Agave Syrup

• A light drizzle of agave syrup adds an extra touch of sweetness, making each bite even more indulgent.

Garnished with Mint Leaves

• Fresh mint leaves can brighten up the presentation and add a refreshing hint when paired with each bite.

Accompanied by Herbal Tea

• Enjoy your lemon bars with a cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile or peppermint, for a soothing pairing that complements the dessert’s flavor.

How to Perfect Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

To elevate your vegan lemon bar recipe, consider these helpful tips for achieving the best results.

• Use fresh lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides the best flavor compared to bottled juice, enhancing the overall taste of your bars.

• Soak cashews properly: Soaking cashews for at least 2 hours ensures they blend smoothly into the filling, creating a creamy texture without grittiness.

• Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on your crust while it bakes. Remove it from the oven once it turns golden brown to avoid overbaking and dryness.

• Cool completely before slicing: Allowing the bars to cool fully in the refrigerator will help them set properly, making slicing much easier without crumbling.

• Experiment with flavors: Try adding other citrus zest like orange or lime for a unique twist on your lemon bars.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

Pairing side dishes with vegan lemon bars can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the lemon bars.
2. Coconut Macaroons: Chewy coconut macaroons offer a contrasting texture that pairs beautifully with tangy flavors.
3. Almond Biscotti: Crunchy almond biscotti can provide an enjoyable contrast when dipped into tea or coffee alongside your dessert.
4. Chia Seed Pudding: A light chia seed pudding made with almond milk offers a nutritious side that complements the sweet-tart nature of lemon bars.
5. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: The rich sweetness of chocolate-dipped strawberries creates a delightful balance against tart lemon flavors.
6. Oatmeal Cookies: Soft oatmeal cookies add heartiness to your dessert spread while still being vegan-friendly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Cooling Step: If you pour the filling onto a warm crust, it can lead to a soggy bottom. Always let the crust cool completely before adding the filling.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Precision is vital in baking. Use proper measuring cups and spoons to ensure your vegan lemon bars turn out perfectly.
• Overmixing the Filling: Blending too long can introduce air into the mixture, causing it to rise while baking. Blend until smooth but avoid excessive mixing.
• Ignoring Refrigeration Time: For optimal texture, refrigerate the bars for at least 4-6 hours. Cutting them too early can result in messy slices.
• Forgetting to Line the Pan: Not using parchment paper may cause the bars to stick, making them difficult to remove. Always line your baking pan.
• Using Unripe Lemons: For the best flavor, choose fresh, ripe lemons as they yield more juice and provide a brighter taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store vegan lemon bars in an airtight container.
• They will keep well for up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
• Vegan lemon bars can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 20-30 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place a bar in a skillet over low heat, warming gently for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delicious recipe:

Can I make this Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free all-purpose flour instead of regular flour.

How do I make these vegan lemon bars sweeter?

You can increase the amount of maple syrup or granulated sugar according to your taste preferences.

Can I substitute ingredients in this Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different sweeteners or citrus juices like lime or orange.

How long do these vegan lemon bars last?

They last up to 5 days in the refrigerator when stored correctly.

What can I use instead of coconut cream?

You can replace coconut cream with cashew cream or any non-dairy cream alternative for a similar texture.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe is not only easy to prepare but also brimming with tangy flavor that appeals to everyone. You can customize it with various toppings, such as fresh fruit or nuts, making it versatile enough for any occasion. Give it a try, and enjoy a delightful vegan treat!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the delightful taste of our Vegan Lemon Bar Recipe, where tangy lemon meets a creamy filling in a gluten-free crust. These bars are the perfect balance of sweet and tart, making them an ideal dessert for any occasion—from picnics to family gatherings. With easy-to-follow instructions, this recipe is accessible to bakers of all skill levels. Enjoy these refreshing treats guilt-free, made with natural ingredients and no animal products. Serve them chilled for a zesty pick-me-up that everyone will love!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
• 1 cup vegan butter
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 1 cup coconut cream
• 1/2 cup soaked cashews
• 1/2 cup lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• pinch of turmeric (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine gluten-free flour, vegan butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt.
3. Line a square baking pan with parchment paper and grease it lightly. Press the crust mixture evenly into the pan.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown; let cool.
5. In a blender, blend coconut cream, soaked cashews, lemon juice and zest, maple syrup, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cornstarch, salt, and turmeric until smooth.
6. Heat the filling mixture in a saucepan over medium heat for about 4-6 minutes until thickened.
7. Pour the filling over the cooled crust and level it out.
8. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours to set before slicing.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Vegan

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 square (50g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 120mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg