Bright, tangy, and impossibly easy—these dreamy lemon bars come together with just two pantry staples: angel food cake mix and lemon pie filling. No cream cheese, no eggs to separate, no crust to press. Just stir, bake, and cool for a soft, cake-like bar with the perfect balance of sweet and zingy. With a golden top, tender crumb, and sunshine-yellow center, they’re the ultimate shortcut dessert for potlucks, last-minute guests, or whenever you need a little citrus cheer.Groceries
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This isn’t just another lemon bar—it’s baking magic in its simplest form. Inspired by vintage dump desserts and 1970s convenience classics, this version skips the fuss but keeps all the flavor. It’s moist without being dense, tart without being sour, and so easy that even kids can help make them.
Perfect for:
Last-minute parties and holiday gatherings
Beginners and reluctant bakers
Fans of lemon meringue pie, lemon cake, or shortbread
Make-ahead treats (they taste better the next day!)
🍋 “I made these when my sister dropped by,” said one home cook. “She asked if I’d been baking all day—but I mixed it up while she parked!”
Ingredients
Just Two!
1 box (15.25 oz / 430g) angel food cake mix (any brand)
1 can (21 oz / 600g) lemon pie filling (like Libby’s or Solo)
Optional Finishing Touches
Powdered sugar, for dusting
Fresh lemon zest or thin lemon slices, for garnish
Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, for serving
✅ No substitutions needed —this recipe works best as-is!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Continued on next page:
ADVERTISEMENT
