Few desserts strike the perfect balance between sweet and tart quite like lemon bars. These bright yellow squares, dusted with a gentle snowfall of powdered sugar, are sunshine on a plate. They’re buttery, citrusy, and offer a luscious melt-in-your-mouth bite thanks to their silky texture and crisp crust. The best part? This version requires only two ingredients—making it as simple as it is sensational.

Whether you’re planning a quick sweet treat after dinner or need a sunny addition to your brunch spread, Two-Ingredient Lemon Bars are the perfect solution. They’re light yet satisfying, with just enough zing to make your taste buds dance. Ideal for beginners or seasoned bakers in a hurry, these bars are a must-have in your recipe rotation.

Ingredients for Two-Ingredient Lemon Bars

1 box of angel food cake mix (just the dry mix)
1 can (21 oz) of lemon pie filling

Step-by-Step Instructions for Two-Ingredient Lemon Bars

Making these lemon bars is almost too easy—no need for fancy equipment, advanced techniques, or a pantry full of ingredients. Just a bowl, a spatula, and a baking dish, and you’re on your way to zesty dessert bliss.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the bars bake evenly and get that perfectly golden edge.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry angel food cake mix with the entire can of lemon pie filling. Do not add any other ingredients like eggs, water, or oil. Mix thoroughly by hand or with a mixer on low speed until fully combined and smooth. The batter will be fluffy and light.

Step 3: Pour Into Pan

Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly with a spatula.

Step 4: Bake

Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is slightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 5: Cool and Dust

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cool, dust with powdered sugar if desired for an extra touch of sweetness and a beautiful finish.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Cut into squares or rectangles and serve! These bars are best enjoyed slightly chilled or at room temperature.

Storage Instructions

Two-Ingredient Lemon Bars are just as delightful the next day—if they last that long! To keep them fresh and delicious, follow these simple storage tips:

Room Temperature: Store the lemon bars in an airtight container for up to 2 days if your kitchen is cool and dry.
Refrigerator: For longer freshness, refrigerate them in a sealed container for up to 5–6 days. They taste amazing chilled!
Freezer: These bars also freeze well. Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge or at room temp before serving.

Estimated Nutrition (per bar, based on 12 servings)

Calories: ~150
Total Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: ~280mg
Total Carbohydrates: ~35g
Sugars: ~22g
Protein: ~2g
Fiber: <1g

Note: Values may vary depending on specific brands used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use homemade lemon curd instead of canned pie filling?

A: Yes, but keep in mind the texture may vary. Canned lemon pie filling provides a consistent thickness that works well with the cake mix.

Q2: Can I use a different cake mix besides angel food?

A: Angel food mix is essential for the light and fluffy texture. Other cake mixes won’t rise the same way without added ingredients.

Q3: Do I need to refrigerate the bars?

A: While they’re okay at room temp for a day or two, refrigerating keeps them fresh longer and enhances the flavor.

Q4: Can I add zest or juice from a fresh lemon?

A: Absolutely! A little lemon zest or juice can intensify the citrus flavor without changing the structure.

Q5: Why did my bars turn out too gooey or undercooked?

A: Make sure to bake them for the full 25–30 minutes and let them cool completely before cutting. The cooling helps them firm up.

Q6: Can I double the recipe?

A: Yes, but use two pans instead of one to ensure even baking.

Q7: Can I add toppings like coconut or berries?

A: Sure! Lightly sprinkle toppings before baking, but be mindful they may affect texture and bake time.

Q8: Is this recipe gluten-free?

A: Only if you use a gluten-free angel food cake mix. Always check labels to be sure.

Two-Ingredient Lemon Bars

Author: Lorenzo Devereaux
Total Time: 42 minute
Yield: 12 bars

Print Recipe

Description

Bright, zesty, and beautifully simple—Two-Ingredient Lemon Bars are your new favorite go-to for a quick dessert or snack. Whether you’re in need of an easy recipe for a party, craving a sweet bite after dinner, or just hunting for new breakfast ideas, these lemon bars check every box. They’re light yet luscious, tangy with a touch of sweetness, and melt-in-your-mouth soft with a golden crust.

This easy dessert is perfect for busy days when you want something homemade without spending hours in the kitchen. With just two pantry staples—angel food cake mix and lemon pie filling—you can whip up these delightful bars in no time. They’re a wonderful addition to any collection of easy recipes, food ideas, or healthy snack alternatives.

Ingredients

1 box of angel food cake mix (just the dry mix)

1 can (21 oz) of lemon pie filling

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, combine the dry cake mix with the entire can of lemon pie filling. Mix until smooth and fluffy.
Pour the batter into a greased or parchment-lined 9×13 inch baking pan.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
Allow the bars to cool completely.
Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Slice into squares and serve!

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Category: Dessert