Tangy Lemon Bars (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Base and Crumble Top

01 - 1 1/4 cups rolled oats (quick or old-fashioned)
02 - 3/4 teaspoon sea salt, split into two portions
03 - 3/4 cup packed brown sugar (dark or light)
04 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
05 - 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (1 stick)
06 - 3/4 teaspoon baking powder

→ Citrus Filling

07 - Zest and juice of 2 large or 3 medium lemons
08 - 1 can (14 ounces) of sweetened condensed milk

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Cover an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, making sure the paper spills over on two sides.
02 - Microwave butter to melt it. Combine with the sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir in the flour and oats. Save one cup for the top.
03 - Use the rest of the mixture to cover the bottom of the pan. Bake for 12–14 minutes until it turns lightly golden.
04 - Blend the sweetened condensed milk with the lemon juice, zest, and remaining salt. Stir until silky.
05 - Pour the lemon mix on the crust while it’s hot. Sprinkle the reserved crumble on top. Bake an extra 22–24 minutes till edges are golden.
06 - Let it cool down entirely (1.5 hours). If you’d like, chill it for 30 minutes to set firmly. Cut into 12 squares.

# Notes:

01 - Chilling helps the lemon layer set nicely.
02 - It tastes best served at room temp.
03 - Leave the parchment edges sticking out for easy lifting.