Keto Lemon Bars Recipe [Low Carbs]

Keto Lemon Bars are a delightful and tangy dessert that can be enjoyed even while following a ketogenic diet. Unlike traditional lemon bars that are loaded with sugar and carbs, keto lemon bars offer a low-carb, sugar-free alternative that doesn’t compromise on taste. They are perfect for those craving a sweet treat without derailing their keto lifestyle.

The key ingredients for making keto lemon bars include almond flour, which serves as the base for the crust and adds a nutty flavor. Butter or coconut oil provides richness and moisture to the crust. A keto-friendly sweetener, such as erythritol or stevia, replaces sugar to keep the bars low in carbs. Eggs are used to bind the crust and create a smooth, creamy lemon filling. Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest add the signature tartness and citrusy flavor, while baking powder helps the bars rise. Finally, a pinch of salt enhances the overall taste of these delectable keto lemon bars.

Keto Lemon Bars Recipe

Ingredients

1. Almond Flour

• Almond flour serves as the base for the crust of the lemon bars.
• It adds a nutty flavor and helps create a crumbly texture.
• Choose finely ground almond flour for the best results.

2. Butter or Coconut Oil

• Butter or coconut oil is used to bind the almond flour and create a cohesive crust.
• It adds richness and a buttery flavor to the bars.
• Choose unsalted butter or refined coconut oil for a neutral taste.

3. Keto-Friendly Sweetener (e.g., Erythritol or Stevia)

• Use a keto-approved sweetener like erythritol, stevia, or monk fruit sweetener.
• These sweeteners provide sweetness without adding carbs or raising blood sugar levels.
• Adjust the amount according to your desired level of sweetness.

4. Eggs

• Eggs are a crucial component of the lemon filling.
• They help bind the ingredients together and create a smooth, creamy texture.
• Use large eggs at room temperature for best results.

5. Fresh Lemon Juice and Zest

• Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides the tart and tangy flavor that defines lemon bars.
• Lemon zest adds a bright citrusy aroma and enhances the lemon flavor.
• Use organic lemons for the best quality and flavor.

6. Baking Powder

• Baking powder is used to leaven the crust slightly, giving it a light and airy texture.
• It helps the crust rise and prevents it from becoming too dense.

7. Salt

• A pinch of salt is added to both the crust and the lemon filling to enhance the overall flavor.
• Use fine sea salt or kosher salt for even distribution of flavor.
• Adjust the amount of salt according to your taste preferences.

Indulge in the perfect balance of tangy lemon zest, nutty almond flour, and creamy richness, all sweetened to perfection with keto-friendly sweeteners, creating a delightful dessert that’s low in carbs and high in flavor.

Instructions

1. Preparing The Crust

1. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of almond flour, 1/3 cup of keto-friendly sweetener (such as erythritol or stevia), 1/4 cup of melted butter or coconut oil, and a pinch of salt.
2. Mix the ingredients until they form a dough-like consistency.
3. Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased or parchment-lined baking dish, ensuring it’s compact and smooth.
4. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
5. Bake the crust for about 10-12 minutes or until it turns golden brown around the edges. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.

2. Making the Lemon Filling

1. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs, 1/2 cup of fresh lemon juice, 2 teaspoons of lemon zest, 3/4 cup of keto-friendly sweetener, and a pinch of salt until well combined and slightly frothy.
2. Pour the lemon filling over the partially baked crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
3. Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15-18 minutes or until the filling is set and no longer jiggles in the center.
4. Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely at room temperature.

3. Cooling and Cutting the Bars

1. Once cooled, transfer the bars to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours or until firm. Chilling makes slicing easier.
2. Use a sharp knife to cut the chilled bars into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference.
3. Serve the Keto Lemon Bars chilled or at room temperature.

4. Serving Suggestions For Keto Lemon Bars Recipe

• Dust the tops of the bars with powdered erythritol or a light sprinkle of coconut flour for added sweetness and decoration.
• Garnish each bar with a thin slice of fresh lemon or a sprinkle of lemon zest for a vibrant touch.
• Serve the bars with a dollop of keto-friendly whipped cream or coconut cream on the side for extra creaminess and flavor.

The serving suggestions for Keto Lemon Bars add a final touch of elegance and flavor to this delightful dessert. Dusting the bars with powdered erythritol or coconut flour not only enhances sweetness but also provides a decorative finish. Garnishing with fresh lemon slices or zest not only adds a pop of vibrant color but also intensifies the citrusy notes of the bars. Serving each bar with a dollop of keto-friendly whipped cream or coconut cream elevates the creaminess, making every bite a creamy, tangy delight. These thoughtful touches transform Keto Lemon Bars into a visually appealing and irresistibly delicious treat for any occasion.

Keto Lemon Bars offer a delightful twist on the classic lemon dessert, tailored for those following a ketogenic lifestyle. These bars boast a buttery almond flour crust, perfectly complemented by a zesty lemon filling. The crust, a mix of almond flour, keto-friendly sweetener, and melted butter or coconut oil, bakes to golden perfection, providing a crunchy base. Meanwhile, the lemon filling, crafted from fresh lemon juice, zest, eggs, and sweetener, delivers a tangy and refreshing flavor profile.

Keto Lemon Bars Nutrition Info

Here’s a sample nutrition table for Keto Lemon Bars per serving (assuming 12 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	180 kcal
Total Fat	15g
– Saturated Fat	6g
Cholesterol	55mg
Sodium	120mg
Total Carbohydrates	5g
– Dietary Fiber	2g
– Sugars	1g
Protein	6g

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes used in the recipe. It’s always recommended to calculate the exact nutritional information based on the brands and amounts of ingredients you use.

Here’s a nutrition table for each ingredient used in Keto Lemon Bars per standard serving size:

Ingredient	Serving Size	Calories	Total Fat	Saturated Fat	Cholesterol	Sodium	Total Carbohydrates	Dietary Fiber	Sugars	Protein
Almond Flour	1/4 cup (28g)	160 kcal	14g	1g	0mg	0mg	6g	3g	1g	6g
Butter	1 tbsp (14g)	100 kcal	11g	7g	30mg	85mg	0g	0g	0g	0g
Erythritol	1 tbsp (12g)	0 kcal	0g	0g	0mg	0mg	12g	0g	0g	0g
Eggs	1 large egg (50g)	70 kcal	5g	1.5g	185mg	70mg	0.5g	0g	0g	6g
Fresh Lemon Juice	1 tbsp (15g)	4 kcal	0g	0g	0mg	0mg	1g	0g	0.5g	0g
Fresh Lemon Zest	1 tbsp (2g)	2 kcal	0g	0g	0mg	0mg	1g	0.5g	0g

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific brands and variations in ingredients. Always check the nutrition labels on your ingredients for the most accurate information.

Tips for Best Results 🍽

Here are some tips to ensure the best results when making Keto Lemon Bars:

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor. Fresh ingredients will impart a vibrant citrusy taste to your bars.
2. Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your eggs and butter to come to room temperature before using them. Room temperature ingredients mix more evenly and create a smoother texture.
3. Properly Measure Almond Flour: Almond flour can be dense, so make sure to properly measure it. Use a spoon to fill your measuring cup and level it off for accurate measurements.
4. Grease Your Baking Dish: Grease your baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent the bars from sticking and make for easy removal.
5. Evenly Press the Crust: When pressing the crust mixture into the baking dish, ensure it’s evenly distributed and pressed firmly to create a solid base.
6. Adjust Sweetness: Taste your lemon filling before pouring it over the crust. Adjust the sweetness level by adding more or less keto-friendly sweetener to suit your preference.
7. Bake Until Set: Bake the bars until the filling is set and no longer jiggles in the center. This ensures a firm and cohesive texture.
8. Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating. This helps in firming up the bars and makes slicing easier.
9. Chill for Easy Slicing: For clean and neat slices, refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours before cutting. Chilling firms up the filling and makes slicing a breeze.
10. Garnish Creatively: Get creative with your garnishes! Dust the bars with powdered sweetener, garnish with lemon slices or zest, and serve with a dollop of keto-friendly whipped cream or coconut cream for extra flair and flavor.

Following these tips will help you achieve perfectly delicious Keto Lemon Bars every time!

Delicious Topping Ideas

Here are some delicious topping ideas to enhance your Keto Lemon Bars:

1. Powdered Erythritol or Swerve

Dusting the bars with powdered erythritol or Swerve adds a touch of sweetness and creates a beautiful presentation. It mimics the look of powdered sugar without the added carbs.

2. Coconut Flour

Lightly sprinkle coconut flour over the bars for a subtle coconut flavor and a delicate texture. It complements the lemony taste of the bars perfectly.

3. Fresh Lemon Slices or Zest

Garnish each bar with a thin slice of fresh lemon or a sprinkle of lemon zest for a burst of citrusy aroma and flavor. It adds a vibrant touch to the presentation.

4. Keto-Friendly Whipped Cream

Serve the bars with a dollop of keto-friendly whipped cream made from heavy cream and a keto-approved sweetener. The creamy texture pairs wonderfully with the tangy lemon filling.

5. Coconut Cream

Alternatively, you can serve the bars with a dollop of coconut cream for a dairy-free option. Coconut cream adds richness and a subtle coconut flavor to the dessert.

6. Berries

Add a pop of color and freshness by garnishing the bars with a few fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries. They complement the lemon flavor and add a delightful contrast in taste and texture.

7. Toasted Coconut Flakes

Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes over the bars for a crunchy and nutty topping. It adds a delightful tropical twist to the dessert.

8. Chopped Nuts

For added crunch and richness, sprinkle chopped nuts like almonds or pecans over the bars. Toast the nuts beforehand for enhanced flavor.

9. A Drizzle of Sugar-Free Syrup

Drizzle a sugar-free syrup like sugar-free maple syrup or sugar-free caramel sauce over the bars for extra sweetness and indulgence without the added carbs.

Feel free to mix and match these topping ideas or get creative with your own variations to make your Keto Lemon Bars even more delicious and visually appealing!

FAQ

How many calories are in a keto lemon bar?

The calorie content in a Keto Lemon Bar can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion size used in the recipe. On average, a standard-sized Keto Lemon Bar (approximately 1 square or bar) may contain around 150-200 calories. However, the actual calorie count can differ depending on factors such as the amount of almond flour, butter, eggs, sweetener, and other ingredients used. For precise calorie information, it’s best to calculate based on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use in your recipe.

How many carbs are in a Keto lemon bar?

The number of carbs in a Keto Lemon Bar depends on the specific ingredients used in the recipe. However, typically, a Keto Lemon Bar contains around 3-5 grams of net carbs per serving (which is usually one square or bar). Net carbs are calculated by subtracting fiber and sugar alcohols (such as erythritol) from the total carbohydrates.

The main sources of carbs in Keto Lemon Bars are almond flour (which contains fiber) and any sweeteners used, such as erythritol. The carb content may also vary based on the size of the serving and any additional toppings or garnishes added to the bars.

For accurate carb information, it’s recommended to check the nutrition labels on the specific ingredients you use and calculate the net carbs based on the recipe’s quantities.

What can I use as a keto-friendly sweetener in Keto Lemon Bars?

You have several options for keto-friendly sweeteners that you can use in Keto Lemon Bars:

1. Erythritol: Erythritol is a sugar alcohol that is popularly used as a keto-friendly sweetener. It has zero calories and does not spike blood sugar levels, making it an excellent choice for ketogenic diets. Erythritol has a similar sweetness level to sugar and is often found in granulated or powdered form.
2. Stevia: Stevia is a natural sweetener derived from the leaves of the stevia plant. It is intensely sweet, so a little goes a long way. Stevia is calorie-free and does not affect blood sugar levels, making it suitable for keto diets. It is available in liquid drops or powdered form.
3. Monk Fruit Sweetener: Monk fruit sweetener is made from extracts of the monk fruit, a small green melon native to Southeast Asia. It is intensely sweet like stevia and does not contain calories or carbs, making it a keto-friendly option. Monk fruit sweetener is available in granulated or powdered form.
4. Allulose: Allulose is a low-calorie sugar that occurs naturally in small quantities in certain fruits. It has a similar taste and texture to sugar but with fewer calories and minimal impact on blood sugar levels. Allulose can be used in baking and is available in granulated form.
5. Erythritol-Stevia Blend: Some brands offer blends of erythritol and stevia, combining the benefits of both sweeteners. These blends often have a balanced sweetness profile and can be used as a 1:1 substitute for sugar in recipes like Keto Lemon Bars.

When using keto-friendly sweeteners, it’s essential to check the labels for any additional ingredients or fillers that may affect your dietary preferences. Experiment with different sweeteners to find the one that suits your taste and baking needs best.

How long do Keto Lemon Bars last?

Keto Lemon Bars can typically last for about 4-5 days when stored properly. Here are some tips for maximizing the shelf life of your Keto Lemon Bars:

1. Refrigeration: Store your Keto Lemon Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This helps maintain their freshness and prevents them from drying out.
2. Separation: If you’re stacking multiple layers of bars, place parchment paper or wax paper between the layers to prevent them from sticking together or becoming soggy.
3. Covering: Make sure to cover the container tightly to minimize exposure to air and moisture, which can lead to the bars losing their texture and flavor.
4. Avoid Odors: Keep the container away from strong-smelling foods in the fridge to prevent the bars from absorbing any unwanted odors.
5. Freezing: If you want to extend the shelf life beyond a few days, you can freeze your Keto Lemon Bars. Wrap them individually or in small batches in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
6. Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen bars in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing process helps preserve their texture and taste.

By following these storage tips, you can ensure that your Keto Lemon Bars remain fresh, delicious, and enjoyable for an extended period.

Can I make Keto Lemon Bars dairy-free?

Yes, you can absolutely make Keto Lemon Bars dairy-free by making a few simple ingredient substitutions. Here’s how:

1. Crust:
   • Instead of using butter, opt for melted coconut oil. Coconut oil provides a similar binding effect as butter and adds a hint of coconut flavor to the crust.
   • Make sure to use refined coconut oil if you prefer a neutral taste, as unrefined coconut oil may have a stronger coconut flavor.
2. Filling:
   • Replace dairy products like heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative such as full-fat coconut cream. Coconut cream has a rich and creamy texture, making it an excellent substitute for heavy cream in the lemon filling.
   • Use canned coconut cream that has been refrigerated overnight, so the solid coconut cream separates from the liquid. Use only the solid part for the filling to ensure a thick and creamy consistency.
3. Sweetener:
   • Choose a keto-friendly sweetener that is also dairy-free, such as erythritol, stevia, monk fruit sweetener, or a blend of these. These sweeteners do not contain any dairy ingredients and are suitable for a dairy-free diet.
4. Toppings (Optional):
   • If you plan to add toppings such as whipped cream, ensure that you use a dairy-free whipped cream alternative made from coconut milk or another non-dairy cream substitute.
   • Coconut whipped cream is a popular dairy-free option that complements the flavors of Keto Lemon Bars perfectly.

By making these substitutions, you can create delicious and indulgent Keto Lemon Bars that are entirely dairy-free, making them suitable for those with dairy allergies or following a dairy-free ketogenic diet.