These 3-ingredient lemon bars are the perfect dessert when you want something quick, affordable, and full of bright citrus flavor. With a soft, buttery crust and a tangy lemon filling, they deliver impressive results with minimal effort—ideal for beginners or busy days.
Ingredients
1 (15.25 oz) package yellow cake mix
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
1 (20 oz) can or jar lemon filling or lemon curd (high-quality recommended)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, mix the cake mix with melted butter until it forms a crumbly texture (similar to wet sand).
Press two-thirds of the mixture firmly into the bottom of the dish to create the crust.
Spread the lemon filling evenly over the crust, making sure it reaches the edges.
Sprinkle the remaining mixture over the top to form a crumb topping.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the filling is set.
Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares.
How to Get the Best Results
Preheating the oven ensures even baking and proper texture.
Mix the crust well so it holds together when pressed.
Press the base firmly to prevent crumbling when slicing.
Spread the filling evenly for consistent flavor in every bite.
Let the bars cool fully—this step is essential for clean cuts and proper setting.
Variations
Use vanilla or white cake mix for a lighter flavor.
Add fresh lemon zest for extra citrus aroma.
Swap the lemon filling for raspberry, blueberry, or strawberry for a fruity twist.
Dust with powdered sugar for a bakery-style finish.
Tips
Avoid overbaking, as it can dry out the crust.
Chill the bars before cutting for cleaner slices.
Use high-quality lemon curd or filling for the best taste.
Nutrition (Approx. per serving)
Calories: 350
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fat: 14g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: —
Sodium: 250mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cake mix?
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