Lemon bars are a classic, well-loved treat that’s known for its perfect balance of tangy sweetness and smooth texture. However, the traditional recipe is often loaded with sugar and refined flour, making it unsuitable for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. If you’re looking to enjoy a zesty and satisfying lemony treat without derailing your health goals, Keto Lemon Bars on an Almond Flour Crust are the answer.
This keto-friendly version captures all the flavors of the classic lemon bar, minus the sugar and refined flour. Made with a flaky almond flour crust and a creamy lemon filling, these bars are perfect for anyone who loves a refreshing dessert but wants to stay on track with a low-carb or keto lifestyle. Whether it’s springtime, a holiday celebration, or simply a moment when you’re craving something sweet but healthy, these keto lemon bars are sure to impress.
What Are Keto Lemon Bars on an Almond Flour Crust?
Keto Lemon Bars on an Almond Flour Crust are a delicious twist on the traditional lemon bar, designed to be low-carb and sugar-free, making them perfect for anyone following a ketogenic or low-carb diet. The recipe consists of two main components:
- The Almond Flour Crust: A buttery, slightly sweet, and crumbly base made from blanched almond flour, erythritol, and butter. This crust offers the perfect amount of crunch and is naturally gluten-free.
- The Lemon Filling: A tangy, creamy filling made with fresh lemon juice, eggs, and a small amount of coconut flour to help thicken the filling without adding unnecessary carbs. The sweetness comes from erythritol (or monk fruit sweetener), making it suitable for a keto lifestyle.
The result is a flavorful dessert that gives you all the pleasure of traditional lemon bars, without the guilt.
Origin of the Recipe
Lemon bars have a long history and are believed to have originated in the United States during the early 20th century. They were often featured as a quick, homemade dessert at family gatherings or holiday events. The traditional version of lemon bars is made with a shortbread crust and a filling that typically includes sugar, flour, and butter.
However, in recent years, as more people have embraced healthier diets, including the ketogenic lifestyle, many have been creating low-carb alternatives to traditional recipes. Keto Lemon Bars on Almond Flour Crust represent a modern twist on this beloved dessert, catering to those who are avoiding sugar, refined flour, or following a gluten-free diet.
This keto-friendly adaptation substitutes almond flour for regular flour and erythritol for sugar, making it suitable for those on a keto, low-carb, or diabetic diet.
Ingredients for Keto Lemon Bars on Almond Flour Crust
To make this delicious Keto Lemon Bars on Almond Flour Crust recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Almond Flour Crust:
- 1 ½ cups of blanched almond flour – This flour is finely ground and is perfect for creating a light, crumbly crust.
- ¼ cup powdered erythritol (or monk fruit sweetener) – Used to sweeten the crust without any carbs.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor.
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted – Adds richness and helps bind the crust together.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract – For a subtle, fragrant flavor.
For the Lemon Filling:
- 3 large eggs – These provide structure and richness to the filling.
- ¾ cup powdered erythritol (adjust to taste) – Used to sweeten the lemon filling without sugar.
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2–3 lemons) – The fresh juice gives the bars that tangy flavor that lemon bars are known for.
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest – Adds an extra burst of lemony flavor and aroma.
- 2 tablespoons coconut flour – This is a thickening agent that helps give the lemon filling a perfect texture, without adding carbs.
- Optional: a pinch of turmeric for color – This is not essential, but it can give the lemon filling a richer, golden hue.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Keto Lemon Bars
Let’s dive into the step-by-step process for making Keto Lemon Bars on Almond Flour Crust. The preparation method is simple, and the result is a mouthwatering dessert that will impress your family, friends, or guests.
1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal of the bars after baking.
2: Prepare the Almond Flour Crust
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the blanched almond flour, erythritol, salt, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Stir the mixture until it resembles damp sand.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until it is lightly golden brown around the edges.
- Once baked, let the crust cool slightly while you prepare the lemon filling.
3: Prepare the Lemon Filling
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, erythritol, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and coconut flour until smooth.
- Pour the lemon filling over the cooled almond flour crust.
4: Bake the Lemon Bars
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
- Do not overbake, as the bars will firm up further as they cool.
5: Cool and Refrigerate
- Allow the bars to cool to room temperature.
- Once cooled, refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours to let the filling firm up and set completely.
6: Serve
- Once the bars are fully cooled and set, you can dust them with a light sprinkling of powdered erythritol before serving.
- Slice into squares or bars and enjoy your delicious Keto Lemon Bars on Almond Flour Crust.
Nutritional Information for Keto Lemon Bars (Per Bar, Makes 16 Bars)
- Calories: 130
- Fat: 12g
- Net Carbs: 2g
- Protein: 3g
This makes the Keto Lemon Bars on Almond Flour Crust a great snack or dessert choice if you’re following a low-carb or ketogenic diet.
Tips & Variations for Keto Lemon Bars
Here are some ideas to customize your keto lemon bars:
- For a Firmer Filling: If you prefer a firmer texture for the filling, you can add an extra teaspoon of coconut flour. This will give the filling more body and help it set more quickly.
- Use Meyer Lemons: For a sweeter, floral lemon flavor, consider using Meyer lemons instead of regular lemons. They are less tart and have a more delicate flavor.
- Storage: These bars can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days, or frozen for up to 2 months.
- Add Extra Lemon Flavor: If you love a stronger lemon flavor, try adding ½ teaspoon of lemon extract to the filling mixture.
- Dairy-Free Version: For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with coconut oil and use coconut cream instead of the eggs for the filling.
FAQs About Keto Lemon Bars on Almond Flour Crust
1. Can I use regular flour instead of almond flour?
No, regular flour is not suitable for a keto or low-carb diet. Almond flour is the best alternative because it’s low in carbs and gluten-free.
2. How do I know when the lemon bars are done?
The lemon bars are done when the center is set but still slightly jiggly. They will firm up further as they cool.
3. Can I make these lemon bars without coconut flour?
Coconut flour helps to thicken the filling and gives it the right texture. If you don’t have coconut flour, you can try substituting it with almond flour, but the texture may be different.
4. How long do these bars last?
These bars can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them for longer, you can freeze them for up to 2 months.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Keto Lemon Bars on Almond Flour Crust are a delicious, tangy, and low-carb alternative to traditional lemon bars, offering all the flavor without the sugar and refined flour. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to enjoy on a keto diet or simply want a refreshing dessert that’s also guilt-free, these keto lemon bars are the perfect solution. With their almond flour crust, creamy lemon filling, and minimal carbs, they make for an ideal dessert at any time of year.
Give this recipe a try and enjoy the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness in every bite. You won’t miss the traditional version once you experience these keto-friendly lemon bars!
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Keto Lemon Bars on Almond Flour Crust – A Delicious and Tangy Low-Carb Dessert
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Lemon bars are a classic, well-loved treat that’s known for its perfect balance of tangy sweetness and smooth texture. However, the traditional recipe is often loaded with sugar and refined flour, making it unsuitable for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. If you’re looking to enjoy a zesty and satisfying lemony treat without derailing your health goals, Keto Lemon Bars on an Almond Flour Crust are the answer.
Ingredients
For the Almond Flour Crust
1 ½ cups blanched almond flour
¼ cup powdered erythritol (or monk fruit sweetener)
¼ teaspoon salt
⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Lemon Filling
3 large eggs
¾ cup powdered erythritol (adjust to taste)
½ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2–3 lemons)
1 tablespoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons coconut flour (helps thicken the filling without carbs)
Optional: a pinch of turmeric for color
Instructions
1. Preheat oven:
Set to 350°F (175°C).
Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Make the crust:
In a medium bowl, combine almond flour, sweetener, salt, melted butter, and vanilla.
Stir until mixture resembles damp sand.
Press evenly into the bottom of the pan.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until lightly golden around the edges.
Let it cool slightly while preparing the filling.
3. Prepare the lemon filling:
In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, sweetener, lemon juice, lemon zest, and coconut flour until smooth.
Pour over the pre-baked crust.
4. Bake again:
Return to the oven and bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
Don’t overbake — it will firm up as it cools.
5. Cool completely:
Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing.
6. Serve:
Dust with powdered erythritol before serving, if desired.
Slice into squares or bars.
Notes
These Keto Lemon Bars on Almond Flour Crust are the perfect guilt-free dessert for lemon lovers! With a buttery almond flour base and a tangy, smooth lemon filling, they’re low in carbs but full of flavor. Ideal for keto, gluten-free, or sugar-conscious diets—serve chilled for a refreshing treat that satisfies any sweet tooth!
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 150
Keywords: Keto Lemon Bars on Almond Flour Crust
