Lemon bars are a classic dessert, but who has time for complicated recipes? This incredibly easy recipe uses just two ingredients – an angel food cake mix and lemon juice – to create surprisingly delicious and lemony bars. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you crave a simple yet satisfying treat. This recipe is not only quick and easy, but it also delivers a delightful tangy flavor that will impress your friends and family.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe leverages the convenience of angel food cake mix to create a simple, yet impressive dessert. The mix provides the base for a light and airy texture, while the lemon juice adds the necessary tang and moisture. The result is a surprisingly moist and flavorful bar that requires minimal effort. You'll bypass the need for multiple steps and ingredients, saving you both time and energy in the kitchen.
What You'll Need
- One box (15.25 ounces) angel food cake mix
- 1 cup (8 ounces) lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best, but bottled works in a pinch)
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. This ensures easy removal of the finished bars.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the entire box of angel food cake mix and the full cup of lemon juice. Mix thoroughly until a smooth batter forms. Don't be alarmed if the batter seems a bit thick.
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Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool & Cut: Let the lemon bars cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. This prevents them from crumbling and ensures neat, clean slices.
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Serve & Enjoy: Dust with powdered sugar (optional) and serve. These bars are best enjoyed at room temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use different types of lemon juice?
While freshly squeezed lemon juice offers the best flavor, bottled lemon juice works as a suitable substitute in a pinch. However, be mindful that bottled juices may vary in their sweetness and acidity, potentially affecting the final taste of the lemon bars.
How can I store leftover lemon bars?
Store leftover lemon bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also store them in the refrigerator for up to a week, but they may become slightly drier.
Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?
While the simplicity of this recipe is its charm, you can certainly experiment with additions. A tablespoon of lemon zest could enhance the lemon flavor, or a few blueberries could add a delightful burst of color and sweetness. However, adding too many ingredients might alter the texture.
What if my lemon bars are too dry?
If your lemon bars turn out too dry, you might have overbaked them. Try reducing the baking time next time. Additionally, ensure your oven temperature is accurate.
Can I use a different size pan?
While a 9x13 inch pan is recommended, you can use a different size pan, but the baking time may need to be adjusted accordingly. A smaller pan will require less baking time, while a larger pan will require more. Keep a close eye on the bars to prevent overbaking.
This incredibly simple recipe for 2-ingredient lemon bars with angel food cake mix delivers a surprisingly delicious and convenient dessert option. Try it today and see for yourself!
