Yogurt Lemon Pie Bars Recipe: A Delicious Pie Bar Recipe

Get ready to pucker up and smile with these bright and citrusy Yogurt Lemon Pie Bars! Imagine a refreshing twist on the classic lemon bar, with the added creaminess of yoghurt to balance the tang.

These sweet and tangy treats are perfect for warm weather, potlucks, or a sweet pick-me-up any time of the year.

With a shortbread crust, a velvety yoghurt-lemon filling, and a sprinkle of powdered sugar, these bars will surely become a new favourite. So go ahead, take a bite, and let the sunshine in!

Yogurt Lemon Pie Bars Recipe: A Quick Overview

Category	Description
Recipe Description	A refreshing and tangy dessert bar recipe that combines the brightness of lemon with the creaminess of yogurt, all on a buttery shortbread crust.
Preparation Time	20 minutes
Cooking Time	25 minutes
Total Time	45 minutes
Type of Dish	Dessert
Cuisine	American
Quantity Produced	9-12 bars
Number of Calories	approximately 220-250 per bar

About Yogurt Lemon Pie Bars Recipe

These Yogurt Lemon Pie Bars are a refreshing twist on the classic lemon bar, with the added creaminess of yogurt to balance the tang.

The shortbread crust provides a buttery and crumbly base, while the lemon-yogurt filling is infused with citrus flavor. These bars are delicious and visually stunning with a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top.

Perfect for springtime gatherings, potlucks, or just a sweet treat any time of the year, these Yogurt Lemon Pie Bars are sure to become a new favourite.

Why does the Yogurt Lemon Pie Bars Recipe Stand Out?

• Unique Flavor Combination: Tangy yogurt, bright lemon, and sweet sugar combine to create a refreshing and balanced flavor profile that’s perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a pick-me-up.
• Easy to Make: With a simple shortbread crust and a no-bake filling, these bars are quick to prepare and require minimal cooking, making them perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
• Light and Refreshing: Unlike traditional heavy and rich desserts, these bars are light, creamy, and refreshing, making them an excellent choice for spring and summer celebrations.
• Customizable: You can easily customize the recipe by using different flavors of yogurt, adding a sprinkle of citrus zest, or even mixing in some fresh berries to create a unique flavor combination.
• Perfect for Potlucks and Parties: These bars are easy to transport, serve, and eat, making them an excellent choice for potlucks, picnics, and outdoor gatherings.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: The bars can be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen, making them perfect for meal prep or planning ahead for special events.
• Impressive Presentation: The bright yellow color and creamy texture of the filling, paired with the crumbly shortbread crust, make for an impressive and Instagram-worthy dessert that’s sure to impress your friends and family.

What are the ingredients in the Yogurt Lemon Pie Bars Recipe?

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Must-Have Equipment for Making Yogurt Lemon Pie Bars Recipe

• 9×9-inch Baking Dish: A square baking dish is necessary for creating the shortbread crust and holding the yogurt lemon filling.
• Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a large mixing bowl to cream together the butter and sugar for the shortbread crust, and a separate bowl to whisk together the yogurt lemon filling ingredients.
• Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: A mixer is necessary for creaming together the butter and sugar for the shortbread crust.
• Whisk: A whisk is necessary for mixing together the yogurt lemon filling ingredients.
• Rubber Spatula: A rubber spatula is necessary for scraping the sides of the mixing bowls and folding the yogurt lemon filling ingredients together.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial in baking, so you’ll need measuring cups and spoons to ensure you’re using the right amounts of each ingredient.
• Parchment Paper or Aluminum Foil: You’ll need parchment paper or aluminum foil to line the baking dish, making it easy to remove the bars once they’re set.
• Refrigerator: You’ll need a refrigerator to chill the shortbread crust and yogurt lemon filling before assembling and baking the bars.
• Oven: A conventional oven is necessary for baking the shortbread crust and yogurt lemon filling.

Yogurt Lemon Pie Bars Recipe: step by step guide

Crust and Crumb Topping

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
• In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, and confectioners’ sugar. Add the softened butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Press half of the mixture into the prepared baking dish. If using pecans, sprinkle them evenly over the crust.
• Bake for 20-22 minutes or until the crust is lightly golden brown.

Lemon Yogurt Filling

Ingredients:

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

• In a large bowl, whisk together the yogurt, granulated sugar, egg yolks, lemon juice, lemon zest, and salt until smooth.
• Pour the lemon yogurt mixture over the baked crust.
• Bake for an additional 20-22 minutes or until the filling is set and the edges are lightly golden brown.

Assembly and Chill

Instructions:

• Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
• Once cooled, refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours or overnight.
• Just before serving, sprinkle the remaining crust mixture evenly over the top of the bars.
• Cut into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy!

Perfect Pairings for Yogurt Lemon Pie Bars Recipe

• Fresh Fruit: A simple but elegant pairing, serving the bars with a side of fresh fruit such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries adds natural sweetness and a pop of color.
• Whipped Cream: Top the bars with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra-special treat that adds a luxurious touch.
• Coffee or Espresso: The bright, citrusy flavor of the lemon pairs beautifully with the richness of coffee or espresso, making for a delightful breakfast or brunch combination.
• Tea: Whether you prefer hot or iced tea, the subtle bitterness of the tea complements the sweetness of the bars and the tanginess of the lemon.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: Sandwich a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream between two bars for a decadent dessert that’s sure to impress.
• Caramel Sauce: Drizzle caramel sauce over the bars for a sweet and salty contrast that will leave you wanting more.
• Toasted Nuts: A sprinkle of toasted nuts such as almonds or pecans adds a satisfying crunch and a touch of earthy flavor to the bars.

Mastering Yogurt Lemon Pie Bars Recipe: Insider Tips and Tricks

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh lemons, real butter, and high-quality yogurt will make a huge difference in the flavor and texture of the bars.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the shortbread crust and yogurt lemon filling just until the ingredients come together. Overmixing can lead to a tough crust and a dense filling.
• Chill, Chill, Chill: Make sure to chill the shortbread crust and yogurt lemon filling separately before assembling the bars. This will help the flavors meld together and the textures set.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the bars while they’re baking and remove them from the oven when the crust is lightly golden. Overbaking can cause the filling to become too firm.
• Use the Right Yogurt: Choose a high-quality, plain Greek yogurt that’s high in protein and low in sugar. This will help the filling set properly and give the bars a tangy flavor.
• Don’t Skip the Lemon Zest: The lemon zest adds a bright, citrusy flavor to the bars. Don’t skip it, even if you’re short on time!
• Press the Crust: Use a flat surface or a spatula to press the shortbread crust into the baking dish. This will help it hold its shape and prevent it from crumbling.
• Let it Set: Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing and serving. This will help the filling set and the flavors meld together.
• Experiment with Flavors: Try adding different flavors like vanilla, almond, or raspberry to the yogurt lemon filling to create unique variations.

What nutritional benefits do the Yogurt Lemon Pie Bars Offer?

• High in Protein: The Greek yogurt in the filling provides a good amount of protein, which can help with muscle growth and repair.
• Good Source of Calcium: The yogurt and butter in the recipe are rich in calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.
• Rich in Vitamin C: The lemons used in the recipe are an excellent source of vitamin C, which is important for immune function and skin health.
• Antioxidant-Rich: The lemons and yogurt in the recipe contain antioxidants that can help protect the body against free radicals and oxidative stress.
• Good Source of Fiber: The shortbread crust made with whole wheat flour provides a good amount of fiber, which can help with digestion and satiety.
• Lower in Sugar: Compared to other dessert recipes, the Yogurt Lemon Pie Bars are relatively low in sugar, making them a slightly healthier option.
• Good Source of Healthy Fats: The butter and yogurt in the recipe provide healthy fats that are essential for brain function, hormone production, and absorption of vitamins.
• May Help with Digestion: The probiotics in the yogurt can help support gut health and digestion.
• Can Help with Weight Management: The protein and fiber in the recipe can help with feelings of fullness and satisfaction, making it easier to manage weight.

How can you preserve leftovers of Yogurt Lemon Pie Bars?

• Room Temperature: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerate: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freeze: Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
• Freeze Individual Bars: Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. This way, you can grab a bar and go!
• Refrigerate or Freeze the Crust and Filling Separately: If you don’t plan to use up the entire batch of bars, consider refrigerating or freezing the crust and filling separately. This way, you can assemble fresh bars as needed.
• Use an Airtight Container: Regardless of the storage method, make sure to use an airtight container to keep the bars fresh and prevent moisture from getting in.
• Label and Date: Be sure to label and date the container or bag so you know how long the bars have been stored.

Conclusion

As you take your first bite of these Yogurt Lemon Pie Bars, the tangy zip of lemon and the creamy richness of yoghurt meld together perfectly.

It’s a match made in heaven that will leave you wanting more. With their bright and citrusy flavour, these bars are the perfect way to add sunshine to your day.

And the best part? They’re incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and patience. So go ahead, give these Yogurt Lemon Pie Bars a try, and get ready to pucker up and smile.

FAQs

Q: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of regular yogurt?
A: Yes, you can use Greek yogurt as a substitute. Keep in mind that Greek yogurt has a thicker consistency, so you may need to adjust the amount of lemon juice accordingly.

Q: Can I make these bars ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the crust and filling ahead of time and store them in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Assemble and bake just before serving.

Q: Can I use a different type of citrus, like lime or orange?
A: Yes, you can experiment with different citrus flavors like lime or orange. Just be sure to adjust the amount of juice and zest according to the fruit’s acidity and flavor profile.

Q: How do I store these bars?
A: Store the baked and cooled bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months and thaw at room temperature when ready to serve.

Q: Can I make these bars gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend in the shortbread crust. Just be sure to adjust the ratio of flours according to the package instructions.

Q: How do I get a clean cut when slicing the bars?
A: To get a clean cut, make sure the bars are completely cooled and chilled in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts to prevent the bars from sticking to the knife.