I first discovered this recipe during a particularly hectic week when I needed a quick dessert for a last-minute get-together. Skeptical yet hopeful, I decided to give it a try. The ease of preparation and the delightful outcome left me and my guests pleasantly surprised. Since then, these lemon bars have become a staple in my repertoire, praised for their tangy taste and airy texture. Here’s how you can make these delightful bars yourself, with detailed steps to ensure a perfect result every time.
Ingredients
1 box of angel food cake mix (16 ounces)
1 can of lemon pie filling (21 ounces)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish
Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to the temperature recommended on the box of angel food cake mix. This is typically around 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial as it ensures that your lemon bars bake evenly.
Prepare the Baking Dish:
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. You can use butter, cooking spray, or line it with parchment paper to prevent the bars from sticking. Ensuring the pan is well-prepared will make it easier to remove the bars after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
Combine the Cake Mix and Lemon Pie Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, pour the contents of the angel food cake mix. Add the entire can of lemon pie filling to the bowl.
Mix Thoroughly:
Using a spatula or a hand mixer, stir the ingredients together until you achieve a smooth, uniform batter. Ensure there are no dry spots or lumps. The mixture should be light and airy due to the nature of the angel food cake mix.
Step 3: Bake the Lemon Bars
Pour the Batter into the Baking Dish:
Transfer the batter to your prepared 9×13-inch baking dish. Use a spatula to spread the batter evenly across the dish, smoothing the top for an even bake.
Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake according to the instructions on the cake mix box, which is usually about 25 minutes. The top should turn a beautiful golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when the bars are done.
Step 4: Cool and Cut
Cool the Bars:
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool. Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This cooling period helps them set, making them easier to cut.
Cut into Squares:
After cooling, use a sharp knife to cut the bars into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference. For clean cuts, you can wipe the knife with a damp cloth between slices.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Optional Garnishes:
For an added touch of elegance, you can dust the top of the bars with powdered sugar. Alternatively, serve them with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Serve:
Arrange the lemon bars on a serving platter or individual plates. They are perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee, making them a versatile dessert suitable for any time of day.
Variations and Substitutions
Lemon-Lime Twist:
Mix in some lime zest with the lemon pie filling for a zesty lemon-lime variation. This adds an extra layer of citrus flavor, making the bars even more refreshing.
Berry Delight:
Add a handful of fresh or frozen berries to the batter before baking. Blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries complement the lemon flavor beautifully and add a burst of color and flavor.
Gluten-Free Option:
Use a gluten-free angel food cake mix to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Ensure the lemon pie filling is also gluten-free.
Cream Cheese Swirl:
Swirl in some softened cream cheese into the batter for a creamy, tangy variation. Simply drop spoonfuls of cream cheese over the batter and use a knife to create swirls.
Conclusion
These 2-Ingredient Lemon Bars are a testament to the idea that sometimes less is more. With just a box of angel food cake mix and a can of lemon pie filling, you can create a dessert that is light, flavorful, and sure to impress. The ease of preparation and the delightful taste make these bars perfect for any occasion, whether you’re in need of a quick dessert for a party or just craving something sweet and refreshing.
The combination of the fluffy angel food cake and the tangy lemon pie filling creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making each bite a delight. The simplicity of the recipe also leaves room for creativity, allowing you to experiment with different variations and make it your own. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own twist, these lemon bars are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Enjoy the burst of lemony freshness and the joy of a simple, delicious treat!
