2 Ingredients Lemon Bar Recipe With Cake Mix

A lemon bar recipe with cake mix is a quick dessert made from angel food cake mix and lemon pie filling, baked into soft, airy bars with bright citrus flavor.

It delivers sweet and tangy taste in every square, light texture, and golden top that makes it hard to resist. I made this lemon bar recipe with cake mix after watching a home baking video that inspired me to try it.

The main specialty is the two ingredient method and fluffy lemon crumb. I will now show step by step how to prepare lemon bar recipe with cake mix.

About This Lemon Bar Recipe With Cake Mix

This lemon bar recipe with cake mix delivers a lively burst of citrus flavor that feels fresh and uplifting. The sweetness from the cake mix blends smoothly into the bright lemon filling, creating a balanced dessert that is neither too sharp nor too sugary.

The texture remains soft and airy inside, while the top forms a light golden crust that adds gentle contrast. A mild tart note lingers on the tongue and keeps the flavor interesting.

The overall taste feels light, cheerful, and pleasantly refreshing from the first bite to the last.

How To Prepare Lemon Bar Recipe With Cake Mix?

To make these lemon bar recipe with cake mix perfectly, we’ll follow each step carefully. Clear instructions make the process easy, and a few helpful kitchen tools can simplify baking.

Even without every tool, you can still create soft, fluffy bars bursting with bright, tangy lemon flavor.

Lemon Bar Recipe With Cake Mix
Lemon Bar Recipe With Cake Mix

Recipe Overview

Preparation Time: 5 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Course: Dessert

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield:  12 serving

Kitchen Utensils

  • 9×13 inch baking pan
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Measuring spoon
  • Cooling rack
  • Knife for slicing

Ingredients

  • 1 box angel food cake mix
  • 1 can lemon pie filling

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the dry angel food cake mix and the entire can of lemon pie filling. Stir until fully blended. The batter will be light and fluffy.

Step 2: Bake

Spread the batter evenly into an ungreased 9×13 inch baking pan. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.

Step 3: Cool and Slice

Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, cut into squares and serve. Optional: dust lightly with powdered sugar for extra sweetness.

Notes: Do not add water, oil, or eggs just use the two listed ingredients. Make sure to use regular angel food cake mix (not “just add water” varieties with included egg whites). Let the bars cool fully before slicing to help them hold their shape.

Nutrition Facts Of Lemon Bar Recipe With Cake Mix

Nutrition Amounts
Calories180
Carbohydrates38g
Protein3g
Fat0g
Sugar28g
Sodium320mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this lemon bar recipe with cake mix because it delivers bright, tangy lemon flavor in every bite without complicated steps or extra ingredients.

The texture is light and fluffy, almost like a sponge cake, yet it holds together perfectly for easy slicing. It bakes quickly, making it a convenient dessert for last-minute gatherings or a simple treat at home.

The two-ingredient method keeps things fuss-free while still producing a rich, sweet-tart dessert that feels homemade. Every piece is soft, tender, and full of refreshing citrus taste that feels indulgent but not heavy.

Why My Lemon Bar Recipe With Cake Mix Works

This lemon bar recipe with cake mix works because the angel food cake mix already contains the right balance of flour and stabilizers to create structure and lift.

When blended into lemon pie filling, the batter becomes airy and stable without needing eggs or oil. As it bakes, trapped air expands and forms a soft, fluffy texture.

The lemon pie filling provides moisture, sweetness, and bold citrus flavor in one step. This prevents dryness and keeps the bars tender. The simple two ingredient method also reduces measuring errors, giving consistent results every time.

Serving Suggestions for Lemon Bars

Serve these lemon bar recipe with cake mix chilled or at room temperature for a light, refreshing dessert. They pair beautifully with a cup of hot tea, coffee, or a glass of cold milk.

For added presentation, dust the top lightly with powdered sugar or add a few thin lemon slices as garnish. These bars can also be served alongside fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Cut into small squares for parties or larger rectangles for a family treat. Store extras in an airtight container to keep them soft and flavorful.

When To Serve Lemon Bars With Cake Mix

Lemon bar recipe with cake mix are versatile and can be enjoyed any time of day. Serve them as a light dessert after lunch or dinner, or offer them as a sweet snack during afternoon tea or coffee breaks.

They work well at gatherings, potlucks, and casual parties because they are easy to slice and share. Chilled or at room temperature, these bars also make a refreshing treat on warm days.

For holidays or celebrations, they add a bright, cheerful flavor to the dessert table and pair nicely with other baked goods or fresh fruit.

Professional Baking Tips

1. Make sure your angel food cake mix and lemon pies filling are fresh. Old mixes can affect how the bars rise and how the flavor turns out.

2. Lightly grease your baking pan or line it with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and helps you remove the bars cleanly after baking.

3. Fold the lemon pie filling into the cake mix slowly. Over mixing can deflate the batter and make the bars dense instead of fluffy.

4. Spread the batter evenly in the pan so it bakes uniformly. Uneven thickness can lead to undercooked edges or overcooked centers.

5. Bake until the top is lightly golden and springs back when touched. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

6. Let the bars cool fully before cutting. This allows the structure to set, making clean slices and preventing crumbling.

Nutrition Benefits

These lemon bar recipe with cake mix provide a sweet treat that is lighter than traditional dense desserts. The angel food cake base is low in fat and contains some protein from egg whites, while the lemon pie filling adds vitamin C from the citrus.

Each serving delivers quick energy through carbohydrates and natural sugars, making it a good choice for a small dessert boost.

The bars are also relatively low in calories compared to richer cakes or pastries. Enjoying them in moderation can satisfy a sweet craving while keeping portions controlled.

Best Variations

Blueberry Lemon Bars: Fold fresh or frozen blueberries into the batter before baking. The sweet berries complement the tart lemon flavor and add a pop of color.

Coconut Lemon Bars: Sprinkle shredded coconut on top before baking or fold some into the batter. The coconut adds a subtle tropical flavor and chewy texture.

Glazed Lemon Bars: Mix powdered sugar and a little lemon juice into a smooth glaze. Drizzle over the cooled bars for extra sweetness and a shiny finish.

Almond Lemon Bars: Add a teaspoon of almond extract to the batter and top with slivered almonds. This gives a nutty aroma that pairs beautifully with lemon.

Raspberry Lemon Bars: Swirl fresh raspberry puree into the lemon cake mix before baking. The tart raspberries create a layered flavor and make the bars visually appealing.

Storage Instructions

After baking, allow the lemon bars to cool completely before storing. Keep them in an airtight container to maintain softness and freshness.

They can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for 5–7 days. For longer storage, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container; they can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Thaw frozen bars in the refrigerator before serving to preserve texture and flavor. Avoid leaving them uncovered, as they may dry out quickly.

FAQs About Lemon Bar Recipe With Cake Mix

What makes this lemon bar recipe so easy?

It uses only two main ingredients angel food cake mix and lemon pie fillingso no eggs, oil, or complicated steps are required.

Can I use a different type of cake mix?

Angel food cake mix gives the best light, fluffy texture. Other mixes may make the bars denser or overly sweet.

How do I know when the bars are done?

The top should be lightly golden and spring back when touched. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean.

Is it possible to freeze these lemon bars?

Yes. Wrap in plastic or foil, place in a freezer-safe container, and thaw at room temperature before serving.

Can I make these bars more lemony?

Yes. Add a teaspoon of lemon zest or a small squeeze of fresh lemon juice to enhance the citrus flavor.

Conclusion

This lemon bar recipe with cake mix is a dessert that everyone enjoys. Each time I make it, the soft, airy texture and bright lemon flavor bring smiles to the table.

I often prepare it to serve guests or for family gatherings, and it never disappoints. The simple two-ingredient method makes it easy to recreate, even on busy days.

I love sharing this easy approach because it allows others to enjoy fresh, homemade lemon bars without complicated steps. I hope you try lemon bar recipe with cake mix and enjoy every square as much as I do.

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Lemon Bar Recipe With Cake Mix

Lemon Bar Recipe With Cake Mix

Sophia
This lemon bar recipe with cake mix delivers a lively burst of citrus flavor that feels fresh and uplifting. The sweetness from the cake mix blends smoothly into the bright lemon filling, creating a balanced dessert that is neither too sharp nor too sugary.
The texture remains soft and airy inside, while the top forms a light golden crust that adds gentle contrast. A mild tart note lingers on the tongue and keeps the flavor interesting.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 servings
Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

  • 9×13 inch baking pan
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Measuring spoon
  • Cooling rack
  • Knife for slicing

Ingredients
  

  • 1 box angel food cake mix
  • 1 can lemon pie filling

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the dry angel food cake mix and the entire can of lemon pie filling. Stir until fully blended. The batter will be light and fluffy.

Step 2: Bake

  • Spread the batter evenly into an ungreased 9×13 inch baking pan. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.

Step 3: Cool and Slice

  • Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, cut into squares and serve. Optional: dust lightly with powdered sugar for extra sweetness.

Notes

Notes: Do not add water, oil, or eggs just use the two listed ingredients. Make sure to use regular angel food cake mix (not “just add water” varieties with included egg whites). Let the bars cool fully before slicing to help them hold their shape.

Nutrition Facts Of Lemon Bar Recipe With Cake Mix

Calories: 180 | Carbohydrates: 38g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 0g | Sugar: 28g | Sodium: 320mg
Keyword Lemon Bar Recipe With Cake Mix
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Hi! I’m Sophia, your trusted cake guide with years of hands-on baking experience. I’m passionate about creating delicious and wholesome cakes that bring happiness to every occasion and home. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned baker, I’m here to share tips, recipes, and inspiration to make your baking journey enjoyable and rewarding. From classic flavors to healthy twists, my goal is to help you discover the joy of baking and sharing beautiful cakes with family and friends.

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