Description
These Perfect Vegan Gluten Free Lemon Bars feature a buttery-style gluten-free crust topped with a bright, silky, and tangy lemon filling. They offer a fresh, sweet flavor and are easy to make without eggs, dairy, or gluten, making them ideal for those with dietary restrictions or anyone seeking a delicious vegan dessert.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup vegan butter, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Lemon Filling
- 3/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened plant-based milk
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons gluten-free all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric, optional, for color
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For Serving
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal of the bars after baking.
- Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the gluten-free all-purpose flour, powdered sugar, salt, melted vegan butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until well incorporated, then press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
- Bake the Crust: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden. This sets the base for the lemon filling.
- Prepare the Lemon Filling: While the crust bakes, whisk together in a saucepan the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, granulated sugar, unsweetened plant-based milk, cornstarch, gluten-free flour, optional turmeric, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Cook the Filling: Heat the saucepan over medium heat, whisking constantly to prevent lumps, until the mixture thickens to a silky, pudding-like consistency.
- Combine and Bake: Pour the hot lemon filling evenly over the warm baked crust. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 18–22 minutes, until the filling sets around the edges but still has a slight jiggle in the center.
- Cool and Chill: Remove the lemon bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely at room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to help the filling firm up for clean slicing.
- Serve: Before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar, slice into 16 bars, and enjoy.
Notes
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the brightest flavor and best results.
- Ensure your gluten-free flour blend contains xanthan gum or an equivalent binder if required to maintain crust structure.
- Chill the lemon bars completely before cutting to achieve neat, clean slices.
- Store the bars covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
