Two-Ingredient Lemon Bars

Two-Ingredient Lemon Bars are a super-simple, tangy, and sweet dessert that comes together in just minutes. With a buttery cookie base and a zesty lemon topping, these bars are perfect for when you want a refreshing treat without a long ingredient list or complicated steps.

This quick recipe is ideal for beginners, last-minute dessert needs, or sharing at picnics, potlucks, and tea parties.

Prep Time, Cook Time & Servings

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: 20–25 minutes
Servings: 9–12 bars
Calories: ~150 calories per bar

Equipment Needed

8×8-inch baking pan
Mixing bowl
Whisk or spoon
Measuring cups
Parchment paper (optional, for easy removal)

Ingredients

1 box yellow cake mix (or lemon cake mix for extra lemon flavor)
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
Optional for garnish: powdered sugar, lemon zest

Ingredient Notes

Cake Mix: Provides the crust; yellow cake mix is classic, but lemon cake mix enhances citrus flavor.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds sweetness and helps set the lemon bar topping.
Optional Garnish: A dusting of powdered sugar or lemon zest adds a pretty, extra-flavor touch.

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.

2. Prepare the Base

Pour the dry cake mix into a mixing bowl. Add sweetened condensed milk and stir until well combined to form a thick dough.

3. Press into Pan

Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan to form the crust.

4. Bake

Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

5. Cool & Slice

Allow the lemon bars to cool completely in the pan. Slice into squares or rectangles.

6. Serve

Optional: Sprinkle powdered sugar or lemon zest over the top before serving. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (Per Bar)

Calories: 150
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 26g
Fat: 5g
Fiber: 0.5g
Sugar: 17g
Sodium: 150mg

Nutrition values are approximate.

Tips for the Best Two-Ingredient Lemon Bars

Use a lightly greased pan or parchment: Makes removal easy.
Press firmly: Ensures a compact, sliceable bar.
Let cool completely: Bars set better and slice neatly.
Optional flavor boost: Add 1 teaspoon lemon extract for extra zing.

Variations

Chocolate-Dipped Lemon Bars

Dip cooled bars in melted chocolate for a decadent twist.

Lemon Cream Bars

Top with a thin layer of cream cheese frosting for richness.

Zesty Lemon Bars

Add 1 teaspoon lemon zest into the dough for stronger lemon flavor.

Berry Lemon Bars

Add a layer of fresh raspberries or blueberries before baking for fruity variations.