If you are looking for a lemon bar recipe that is easy to make and only requires two ingredients, this might be the perfect lemon bar recipe for you! Just angel food cake mix and lemon pie filling make up these easy lemon bars.
If you love lemon as much as we do, also try my Sour Cream Lemon Pie and 7-up Bundt Cake recipes.
Why this recipe works
In a world of lemon desserts, lemon squares are often overlooked. However, they shouldn’t be! There is something about the lemon flavor in these bars that citrus lovers can’t get enough of. These 2 ingredient lemon bars are so simple to make that anyone could do it!
That’s why I am excited to share this recipe for two-ingredient lemon bars with you today. These lemon bar recipes only require one bowl and two ingredients: angel food cake mix and lemon pie filling.
How to make easy lemon bars
These bars only use two ingredients: Angel food cake dry mix and a can of lemon pie filling. I used Duncan Hines brand for both, but you can substitute another brand and have great results.
How to tell when lemon bars are done
Lemon bars are so simple to make, but how do you know when they’re done? One thing you should watch out for with lemon bars is making sure that they don’t over bake and become dry or crumbly.
Use the toothpick method to see when your lemon bar will be done in the oven. When the designated bake time is over, puncture the middle with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, the dessert is done. If not, put them back in to bake a bit longer, checking the progress frequently.
How to store
- Don’t worry–these lemon bars are just as delicious the next day. Store them in an airtight container or wrap them up tightly with cling wrap and they will be ready to enjoy another day.
- You also can freeze these with wax paper in between the layers, then slip them into freezer ziplock bags.
How long do these last?
- These lemon bars will last for about one week, but they’re best when eaten the day that you make them.
- Make sure to store them properly to extend their freshness.
How to serve
- For best flavor, serve them after they are completely cooled. I personally like them served from the fridge the day after they are baked. Top lemon bars a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
- For an extra bit of fun, use a small cookie cutter to make a decorative shape on the lemon bars when you sprinkle the powdered sugar! You can also add a dollop of whipped cream for a touch of creamy sweetness.
Flavor variations to try
Instead of lemon pie filling, why not try another pie filling?
- Key lime pie filling (or curd works great)
- Pineapple Pie Filling
I hope you enjoy this easy to make recipe. It’s a great alternative dessert option to chocolate and makes a refreshingly light treat in the summer. They’re perfect for any occasion – even if it’s just because you need a sweet pick me up! I hope you enjoy them as much as we do around here!
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2 Ingredient Lemon Bars
Ingredients:
- 16 oz. angel food cake mix (I use Duncan Hines)
- 21 oz. lemon pie filling
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
- In a large bowl mix together the lemon pie filling and angel food cake mix. Use a spoon or spatula to mix this together and don't over mix or whip.
- Spray a 9 x 13 pan with non-stick spray or grease with shortening. Add the batter to the pan and spread out evenly.
- Place in the oven on the center rack. Bake for 25 minutes or until top starts to brown.
- Place on a cooling rack and cool for 1-2 hours before cutting into squares.
How to Video:
Recipe Notes:
- Don’t worry–these lemon bars are just as delicious the next day. Store them in an airtight container or wrap them up tightly with cling wrap and they will be ready to enjoy another day.
- You also can freeze these with wax paper in between the layers, then slip them into freezer ziplock bags.
Nutrition:
Nutrition info is auto-generated. This information is an estimate; if you are on a special diet, please use your own calculations.
Sally says
Do you think these would form ok as a muffin shape?
Retro Potluck says
I have never used muffing tins to make these, but it might work if you used liners. Give it a go and let me know.
Helen says
I made this as the recipe stated. It’s really tasty, but not like the typical lemon bars. This was more of a semi-dense cake. Angel food cake mix and pie filling are pricey ingredients. I’ll stick to my tried & true lemon bar recipe.
Retro Potluck says
Yes, these are a bit different than traditional lemon bars since they only use 2 ingredients but they are still tasty as you said.
Juanita says
How many points would a bar be?
Sarah Olson says
I’m unsure?