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Zesty Lemon Cookie Bars

Bright and tangy cookie bars that combine the refreshing taste of lemon with a chewy base and silky frosting.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Wet Ingredients
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened almond butter Look for high-quality almond butter with no added sugars or oils for the best flavor.
  • 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted Ensure it’s melted but not hot; this keeps the texture of the batter just right.
  • 2 Tbsp maple syrup Choose pure maple syrup for a natural sweetness that complements the lemon.
  • 1 Tbsp lemon juice Freshly squeezed lemon juice is always best for flavor!
  • 1 tsp lemon zest Fresh lemon zest adds an extra zing; be sure to avoid the bitter white pith.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract Use pure extract for best flavor.
Dry Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup almond flour Almond flour gives these bars a delightful texture and is gluten-free.
  • 1/2 cup vanilla pea protein This ingredient boosts the protein content while keeping the bars fluffy.
  • Pinch salt A small pinch enhances all the flavors.
Topping
  • 1/2 cup vanilla frosting You can use store-bought or homemade frosting.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Line a loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the almond butter, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
  3. Gradually add the almond flour, vanilla pea protein, and a pinch of salt. Stir until well combined and forms a thick batter.
  4. Pour the mixture into the lined loaf pan and spread it evenly, pressing it down gently.
  5. Place the pan into the freezer for about 20 minutes to allow the mixture to firm up.
  6. Spread the vanilla frosting evenly over the top and return to the freezer for an additional 10 minutes.
  7. Remove from the pan using the parchment overhang and cut into squares or rectangles of desired size.
  8. Sprinkle extra lemon zest on top for a lovely touch.

Notes

Store the bars in an airtight container; they last up to two weeks in the refrigerator or two months in the freezer. Customizable by adding poppy seeds or blueberries.