Two Ingredient Lemon Bars: Easy Recipe You’ll Love!

Name: Two Ingredient Lemon Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box (approximately 430 g) angel food or yellow cake mix; 1 can (425 g) lemon pie filling

Author: Clara Hastings

Published: July 20, 2025

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Introduction to Two Ingredient Lemon Bars

As a passionate home cook, I know how life can get crazily busy. Suddenly, it’s 4 PM, you have no sweets in sight, and your family is asking for a treat. That’s where these delightful Two Ingredient Lemon Bars come to the rescue! With just two easy ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time at all. Trust me, this recipe is your go-to solution for impressing loved ones or satisfying those sweet cravings without breaking a sweat. So, grab your mixing bowl, and let’s dive into this simple but oh-so-delicious treat!

Why You’ll Love This Two Ingredient Lemon Bars

These Two Ingredient Lemon Bars are a dream come true for busy moms or professionals. You’ll appreciate how quick and easy they are to make, with just a whisk and a baking dish standing between you and a sweet, tangy dessert. The burst of lemony goodness dances on your palate, making each bite a delightful treat. Plus, who can resist a dessert that practically makes itself?

Ingredients for Two Ingredient Lemon Bars

When it comes to making Two Ingredient Lemon Bars, simplicity is key! Here’s what you’ll need:

Angel Food or Yellow Cake Mix: This serves as the base of our bars, offering that delightful cake-like texture. If you want a lighter bar, go with angel food. For something richer, yellow cake mix is perfect!
Lemon Pie Filling: This lemony goodness not only provides the flavor but also acts as the binding agent in our recipe. Store-bought works beautifully, but if you’re feeling adventurous, homemade lemon pie filling can take your bars to the next level!

For those who want to elevate their bars further, lemon zest can be mixed in for an extra zing, adding a pop of freshness. It’s like sunshine in your dessert, if you will!

You’ll find the exact measurements at the bottom of the article, which you can print out for your convenience. Let’s keep it simple and delicious!

How to Make Two Ingredient Lemon Bars

Making these Two Ingredient Lemon Bars is a breeze! Follow these simple steps to create a treat that everyone will adore.

Step 1: Combine the Ingredients

Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Add the angel food or yellow cake mix and the lemon pie filling together. Stir until you have a smooth, well-blended batter. Don’t overmix; just ensure there are no dry spots. It should look like sunshine in a bowl!

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Now, let’s get our baking dish ready! Take a 33 x 23 cm baking dish and grease it with nonstick spray or a thin layer of oil. This step is crucial for easy removal later. Nobody wants a beautiful lemon bar stuck in the pan! Making sure it’s well-greased will allow the bars to pop out effortlessly.

Step 3: Bake the Mixture

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Then, pop it into a preheated oven set at 175°C. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know they are done when the top turns golden and the center is set. While you wait, take a moment to sip some tea, because these treats are almost ready!

Step 4: Cool and Serve

Once your bars are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan. Patience is key here! Once cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar if desired for that extra touch of sweetness. Slice them into squares, and voilà—your Two Ingredient Lemon Bars are ready to impress your family and friends!

Tips for Success

Don’t skip greasing the baking dish—it’s the secret to perfectly lifted bars!
For a burst of freshness, add lemon zest to the batter. A little zest goes a long way!
Let your bars cool completely before slicing for clean cuts.
Feel free to experiment with different cake mixes like chocolate for a unique twist.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them fresh!

Equipment Needed

Large Mixing Bowl: A standard bowl will do. If it’s big enough to hold your ingredients, you’re set!
Whisk or Spoon: Use either for easy mixing. A whisk makes it fun, but a sturdy spoon works just as well.
33 x 23 cm Baking Dish: Any similar-sized baking dish will do, even a glass one for all those golden moments!

Variations

Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free angel food cake mix to make these bars accessible for those with gluten sensitivities.
Lower Sugar Version: Choose a sugar-free lemon pie filling and a low-sugar cake mix for a guilt-free treat.
Fruit Infusion: Add fresh fruit like blueberries or raspberries into the batter for a fruity twist that pairs wonderfully with lemon.
Chocolate Drizzle: After baking, try drizzling melted dark chocolate or white chocolate over the cooled bars for an indulgent touch.
Herbal Twist: Incorporate a teaspoon of fresh herbs like mint or basil for an unexpected but delightful flavor combination.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with Fresh Berries: Serve your Two Ingredient Lemon Bars with a side of fresh strawberries or raspberries for a colorful plate.
Top with Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream can elevate your dessert experience.
Accompany with Iced Tea: Enjoy these bars with a glass of sweet iced tea for a refreshing treat.
Presentation: Dust with powdered sugar and add a lemon slice on top for a beautiful finish.

FAQs about Two Ingredient Lemon Bars

As you embark on your journey to make these delightful Two Ingredient Lemon Bars, you may have a few questions in mind. Here are some common queries I encounter, along with their answers!

Can I use a different type of cake mix?

Absolutely! You can experiment with other flavors like chocolate or spice cake mixes. Each variation adds a new twist to your easy lemon bars.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep your bars fresh by storing them in an airtight container in your fridge. They’ll last a few days, but I bet they’ll be gone long before that!

What can I serve these lemon bars with?

I love pairing my Two Ingredient Lemon Bars with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream. It adds an extra layer of flavor and makes for a lovely presentation.

Can I make these lemon bars in advance?

Yes! These bars can be made a day ahead. Just cool them completely, cover them well, and refrigerate. You’ll have a sweet treat ready for your next gathering!

Can I customize the sweetness level?

For a less sweet option, consider using a sugar-free lemon pie filling and a low-sugar cake mix. It’s a great way to enjoy your dessert without too much sugar!

Final Thoughts

These Two Ingredient Lemon Bars have a special place in my heart as a quick and joyful treat. There’s something magical about how a simple mix can transform into a delightful dessert that brings smiles and sunshine to any gathering. Whether it’s a busy weekday evening or a weekend get-together, these bars deliver a refreshing burst of flavor with minimal effort. I hope you savor every bite and share them with your loved ones. Trust me, with this recipe, you’ll feel like a culinary rock star—making dessert easy, fun, and oh-so-delicious!