Name: Limoncello Lemon Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1/2 cup almond butter or peanut butter; 1/4 cup pure maple syrup; 2 tablespoons Limoncello liqueur; 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 cup almond flour; 2 tablespoons coconut flour; Optional: 2 tablespoons dairy-free white chocolate chips or coconut flakes

Zesty, bright, and bursting with citrusy flavor, these Limoncello Lemon Bars are a fresh twist on the classic lemon dessert. They combine the natural tartness of lemon with the smooth, sweet notes of Limoncello liqueur to create a soft, chewy treat that’s both satisfying and refreshing. With wholesome ingredients and a simple prep, these bars are perfect for when I want something indulgent yet light.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1/2 cup almond butter or peanut butter

1/4 cup pure maple syrup

2 tablespoons Limoncello liqueur

1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

1 tablespoon lemon zest

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 cup almond flour

2 tablespoons coconut flour

Optional: 2 tablespoons dairy-free white chocolate chips or coconut flakes

Directions

I start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

In a large mixing bowl, I stir together the almond butter, maple syrup, Limoncello, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla, and salt until everything is smooth.

Then I add in the almond flour, coconut flour, and baking soda, mixing until fully incorporated. If I’m using optional add-ins like white chocolate chips or coconut flakes, I fold them in now.

I spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan, making sure it’s smooth on top.

I bake the bars for 20–22 minutes, until the edges turn golden and the center sets.

After baking, I let them cool completely before slicing. For a firmer bite, I like to chill them in the refrigerator before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 9 bars

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 22 minutes

Total Time: 32 minutes

Calories: 165 kcal per bar

Variations

I sometimes use orange zest and juice for a warmer citrus flavor.

For a more decadent treat, I swirl in some raspberry jam before baking.

If I want a nut-free version, I swap almond butter with sunflower seed butter and use oat flour in place of almond flour.

For a crunchy top, I sprinkle chopped pistachios before baking.

A dusting of powdered sugar or coconut milk glaze gives it a classic lemon bar look.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. They actually taste even better chilled. If I want to keep them longer, I freeze them individually wrapped for up to 2 months. There’s no need to reheat, but if I want them warm, a quick 10-second zap in the microwave works just fine.

FAQs

What is Limoncello, and can I leave it out?

Limoncello is a sweet Italian lemon liqueur that adds a unique flavor. If I want an alcohol-free version, I simply replace it with more lemon juice and a splash of lemon extract for depth.

Can I use regular flour instead of almond and coconut flour?

Not directly. Almond and coconut flours absorb moisture differently, so I’d need to significantly adjust the ratios. If I only have regular flour, I prefer to find a recipe designed for it.

Are these bars really vegan?

Yes! As long as I use dairy-free white chocolate chips or skip them entirely, the rest of the ingredients are plant-based and vegan-friendly.

How do I know when they’re done baking?

I look for lightly golden edges and a center that no longer jiggles. A toothpick inserted near the center should come out mostly clean.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. I double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan, adjusting the bake time slightly (usually adding 5–7 more minutes).

Conclusion

These Limoncello Lemon Bars are my go-to when I want something cheerful, tangy, and just a bit indulgent. They’re easy to make, naturally gluten-free and vegan, and adaptable to different flavors or dietary needs. Whether I’m entertaining or treating myself, this recipe always delivers that perfect citrus bite.

Recipe:

Limoncello Lemon Bars

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Author: Sophia
Total Time: 32 minutes
Yield: 9 bars
Diet: Vegan

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Description

Zesty and refreshing, these Limoncello Lemon Bars combine bright citrus flavors with smooth Limoncello liqueur for a soft, chewy, naturally gluten-free and vegan dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.