If you’re looking for a refreshing dessert that satisfies your sweet tooth without compromising your healthy lifestyle, you’ll absolutely love these Skinny Honey Lemon Bars. Bursting with zesty lemon flavor and just the right amount of sweetness, these bars are perfect for any occasion. Made with wholesome ingredients like whole wheat flour, light brown sugar, and a touch of Greek yogurt, they’re a guilt-free treat that everyone will enjoy. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s simple to make and utterly delightful to savor!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This recipe is a game changer for dessert lovers who want to enjoy something sweet without all the added sugars and calories. The combination of honey and lemon provides a beautiful balance of flavors, while the use of whole wheat flour adds a lovely texture and a boost of nutrition. With just the right amount of sweetness from light brown sugar and the creaminess of Greek yogurt, these bars are not only delicious but also fulfilling. Whether you’re serving them at a summer picnic or enjoying them with a cup of tea, these Skinny Honey Lemon Bars will impress everyone.

Ingredients

6 tablespoons whole wheat flour
6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons light brown sugar, packed
3 tablespoons cornstarch
2 teaspoons lemon zest
½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, chopped and placed in freezer to get cold
1 tablespoon Vanilla Greek yogurt

How To Make Skinny Honey Lemon Bars

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While your oven is heating, line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang on the sides. This will make it easier to lift the bars out later.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, cornstarch, lemon zest, baking powder, and salt. Whisk the ingredients together until they are well combined and there are no lumps.

Step 3: Cut in the Butter

Remove the chopped, cold butter from the freezer and add it to the dry mixture. Using a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingers, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial as it creates that flaky, buttery texture.

Step 4: Add the Greek Yogurt

Stir in the Vanilla Greek yogurt until the mixture comes together. It should be a thick, sticky dough. If it’s too crumbly, you can add a teaspoon of cold water to help bind it.

Step 5: Press Into Pan

Transfer the dough into the prepared baking dish. Use your fingers or a spatula to evenly press the mixture into the bottom of the pan, ensuring it’s compact and even. This will form the crust for your lemon bars.

Step 6: Bake the Crust

Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-baking.

Step 7: Prepare the Filling

While the crust is baking, prepare the filling. In a bowl, whisk together more Greek yogurt (if needed), honey, and additional lemon juice. You can adjust the sweetness and tartness to your liking!

Step 8: Add the Filling

Once the crust is done baking, remove it from the oven and pour the filling over the hot crust. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.

Step 9: Bake Again

Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, until the filling is set and slightly jiggly in the center.

Step 10: Cool and Cut

Allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes before lifting out using the parchment paper. Transfer to a cutting board and slice into squares or rectangles. For best results, refrigerate for an hour before serving to help them set further.

Expert Tips

For a stronger lemon flavor, increase the amount of lemon zest or add a few teaspoons of lemon juice to the filling.
Ensure your butter is cold when mixing; this enhances the texture of the crust.
Don’t skip chilling the bars before slicing—it makes for clean cuts.
Experiment with different flavors of Greek yogurt to give unique twists to the recipe.

Variations and Customizations

Add a layer of fresh berries on top of the filling for a fruity twist.
Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a nuttier flavor and texture.
Incorporate shredded coconut into the crust for a tropical vibe.
Top with a light dusting of powdered sugar before serving for an elegant touch.

How to Store Leftovers

These Skinny Honey Lemon Bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. To enjoy them frozen, simply thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of sweetener instead of brown sugar?

Yes! You can substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup. However, be cautious as this may change the moisture content of your filling.

Are these lemon bars gluten-free?

To make these lemon bars gluten-free, you can substitute both flours with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

While Greek yogurt adds a rich texture, you can use regular yogurt if that’s what you have on hand. Just be aware that the bars may not be as creamy.

How do I know when the lemon bars are done baking?

The lemon bars are done when the filling is set but still slightly jiggles in the center. Keep in mind that they will firm up as they cool.

Conclusion

These Skinny Honey Lemon Bars are a delightful way to indulge without the guilt. With their bright, tangy flavor and wholesome ingredients, they make for the perfect sweet treat any time of year. Whether you’re sharing them with friends and family or treating yourself to a delicious dessert after dinner, these bars are sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients and enjoy the process of creating these zesty, scrumptious bars that everyone will love!

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