Two Ingredient Lemon Bars Recipe

If you’re looking for a crazy-easy dessert that will knock everyone’s socks off, these two ingredient lemon bars are about to become your new obsession. It’s the kind of magic that happens when pantry staples team up: only cake mix and lemon pie filling, blended together for a treat that’s astonishingly tangy, sweet, and fluffy—with less than ten minutes of real work! If you’re short on time, want to bake with kids, or just crave a sunny, no-fuss lemon dessert, this is the recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Part of what makes two ingredient lemon bars so special is their simplicity—just two building blocks that each play a starring role. The combination gives you a tender, airy bar bursting with fresh citrus flavor.

• Angel food or yellow cake mix: This acts as both the base and structure, ensuring the bars bake up light, moist, and slightly spongy. Angel food will give you an ultra-fluffy texture, while yellow cake mix yields a more classic cake crumb.
• Lemon pie filling: This is where all that irresistible lemon zing comes from! It adds moisture, tangy brightness, and a natural glossy finish to every bite.

How to Make two ingredient lemon bars

Step 1: Mix the Batter

Start by combining the entire box of cake mix and the can of lemon pie filling in a large mixing bowl. Don’t overthink it—just dump both in and grab a sturdy spatula or spoon! Stir until you have a smooth, even batter with no streaks of dry mix. The lemon filling will create a thick, almost mousse-like consistency.

Step 2: Prep Your Baking Dish

Lightly grease a 33 x 23 cm baking dish with cooking spray or a slim coating of oil. This is your insurance policy against sticking, so be sure to cover the corners. Evenly pour and spread the batter into the dish, smoothing the top for uniform baking.

Step 3: Bake Until Set

Pop the dish into a preheated 175°C oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top turns a gorgeous golden hue and the bars spring back gently when pressed in the center. If you like firmer bars, give them a couple extra minutes—but don’t let them overbake!

Step 4: Cool and Finish

Let the lemon bars cool completely right in the pan. This helps them set and makes slicing neater. If you’d like, dust the top with powdered sugar for that classic bakery touch. Once cool, cut into sixteen squares and get ready to share (or not—no judgment!).

How to Serve two ingredient lemon bars

Garnishes

Sprinkle with powdered sugar for timeless elegance, or try a scattering of finely grated lemon zest for an extra pop of citrus. Fresh berries or a few mint leaves add color and make each serving feel just a touch more special.

Side Dishes

These bars pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a light afternoon treat, serve alongside a pot of hot tea or a pitcher of iced lemonade. The tartness of the bars plays well with creamy and neutral flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the bars into smaller, bite-sized cubes and stack them on a platter for easy party snacking. For a fancy brunch, layer the pieces into parfait glasses with whipped cream and berries for a stunning lemon trifle effect. Or wrap individual bars in parchment paper for picnics and lunchboxes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover two ingredient lemon bars fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’d like them to last a little longer, transfer the container to the fridge, where they’ll stay moist and flavorful for up to 5 days.

Freezing

If you want to stash some sunshine for later, two ingredient lemon bars freeze surprisingly well. Layer the bars between sheets of parchment and seal in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight—the texture stays lovely!

Reheating

These bars are delicious cold (especially straight from the fridge on a hot day), but if you’d like to serve them warm, pop individual squares in the microwave for about 10 seconds. The lemony aroma returns and the crumb softens beautifully.

FAQs

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

Yes, you can swap in homemade lemon curd if it’s thick like traditional pie filling. Just measure out the same amount and proceed—it’ll give the bars an even more intense homemade citrus flavor!

What’s the difference between angel food and yellow cake mix for this recipe?

Angel food cake mix yields lighter, fluffier bars with more airiness, while yellow cake mix gives them a sturdier, more classic texture and richer crumb. Both are delicious; pick your favorite or whatever you have on hand.

Can I make gluten-free two ingredient lemon bars?

Absolutely! Just use your preferred gluten-free cake mix and ensure the lemon pie filling is gluten-free. The result is nearly identical, and everyone can enjoy a bite.

Do I need to refrigerate the bars after baking?

While you don’t have to refrigerate immediately, the bars do stay moister if you keep them chilled, especially in warm weather. If you plan to enjoy them over several days, refrigeration is your best bet for freshness.

Can I add extras to the batter?

Definitely! While the classic two ingredient lemon bars are perfect as-is, a teaspoon of lemon zest, a handful of white chocolate chips, or even a sprinkle of shredded coconut can add fun twists without much extra work.

Final Thoughts

No matter the occasion, these two ingredient lemon bars deliver joyful flavors with epic ease. I hope you give them a whirl—share them with friends, savor them with your coffee, or sneak a secret square for yourself. Lemon dessert magic truly doesn’t get easier!

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