Easy 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars

Why You’ll Love Easy 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars Recipe

• Minimal Ingredients: Only two pantry staples needed.

• Quick and Easy: Prepped and baked in under an hour.

• Light and Airy Texture: Thanks to the angel food cake mix.

• Zesty Flavor: The lemon pie filling adds a bright citrus twist.

• Versatile for Toppings: Dress it up with powdered sugar, glaze, or whipped cream.

• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for parties, picnics, or afternoon snacks.

• Kid-Friendly: Easy enough for kids to help make.

• No Mixer Required: Just fold and bake—no electric tools needed.

• Low Effort, High Reward: Maximum flavor with minimal work.

• Make-Ahead Friendly: Stores well and can be made a day in advance.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 box of angel food cake mix (one-step, just-add-water type)

• 1 can (21 oz) lemon pie filling

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, letting it hang over the edges for easy removal. Lightly grease the paper.

3. In a large bowl, gently fold together the angel food cake mix and lemon pie filling until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the batter airy.

4. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared pan.

5. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

6. Let the bars cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, lift out using the parchment paper and cut into squares. Dust with powdered sugar if desired before serving.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 12 servings

Variations

• Lemon Zest: Stir in a tablespoon of freshly grated lemon zest for enhanced citrus flavor.

• Glazed Finish: Top with a simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice.

• Berry Twist: Add a handful of fresh blueberries or raspberries to the batter before baking.

• Whipped Cream Topping: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for extra richness.

• Crumb Topping: Sprinkle a light graham cracker or oat crumble over the batter before baking for added texture.

Storage/Reheating

Store the lemon bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 7 days. To serve, you can enjoy them chilled or let them come to room temperature. Avoid microwaving, as it may affect the texture.

FAQs

How do I know when the lemon bars are fully baked?

The bars are done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Can I use a different cake mix?

This recipe specifically requires the one-step angel food cake mix. Substituting with another type may not yield the same light, fluffy texture.

Can I add lemon juice for extra flavor?

It’s best not to alter the ratio of wet to dry ingredients, but you can add lemon zest for more flavor without affecting the texture.

Do I need to use a mixer?

No mixer is needed—just gently fold the ingredients together with a spatula.

Can I freeze these lemon bars?

Yes, you can freeze them in a single layer, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil, for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Why do I need to line the baking pan with parchment?

Parchment paper makes it easy to lift out the bars cleanly and prevents sticking.

What’s the best way to cut lemon bars neatly?

Let them cool completely, then use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but you’ll need to bake it in two pans or adjust the baking time if using a larger dish.

Are these lemon bars very sweet?

They are moderately sweet, balanced by the tanginess of the lemon filling. You can reduce sweetness slightly by skipping powdered sugar on top.

Can I use homemade lemon filling?

Yes, if it’s thick and similar in consistency to canned lemon pie filling, it should work well.

Conclusion

These easy 2-Ingredient Lemon Bars are proof that delicious desserts don’t have to be complicated. With just a few steps and simple ingredients, you can enjoy a light, tangy treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re short on time or just want a fuss-free recipe, this one is sure to become a go-to favorite.