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Low Carb Lemon Bars - Bright, Zesty, and Satisfyingly Simple

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 12 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Almond flour (finely ground; not almond meal)
  • Unsalted butter
  • Granulated erythritol, allulose, or a monk fruit blend (1:1 sugar replacement)
  • Eggs
  • Fresh lemons (for juice and zest)
  • Vanilla extract (optional, for warmth)
  • Sea salt
  • Coconut flour (optional, for extra structure)
  • Powdered low carb sweetener (for dusting; optional)
  • Baking spray or parchment (to line the pan)

Method
 

  1. Preheat and prep the pan: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment, leaving a slight overhang for easy lifting. Lightly grease the sides.
  2. Mix the crust: In a bowl, combine 2 cups almond flour, 1/3 cup granulated low carb sweetener, and a pinch (1/4 tsp) sea salt. Stir in 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until the dough is evenly moistened and clumps together.
  3. Press and par-bake: Press the crust mixture firmly into the lined pan, creating an even layer. Dock with a fork a few times. Bake for 12–14 minutes until lightly golden at the edges. Set aside to cool slightly.
  4. Whisk the filling: In a clean bowl, whisk together 3 large eggs, 2/3 cup granulated low carb sweetener, 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 3–4 lemons), 1 tablespoon lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. For extra body, whisk in 1 tablespoon coconut flour. The batter should be smooth and pourable.
  5. Pour and bake: Pour the filling over the warm crust. Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (165°C). Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the center is just set with a slight jiggle when you nudge the pan.
  6. Cool completely: Let the bars cool in the pan on a rack until room temperature. Then chill for at least 2 hours. This step firms the custard and makes slicing clean and easy.
  7. Dust and slice: Lift the bars out using the parchment. Dust with powdered low carb sweetener if you like. Slice into 16 squares with a sharp knife, wiping the blade between cuts for tidy edges.
  8. Serve: Enjoy chilled or at cool room temperature. Expect a bright, lemony bite with a tender, buttery crust.