Two-Ingredient Lemon Bars: The Easiest Dessert You’ll Ever Make
Craving something sweet, zesty, and effortless? These Two-Ingredient Lemon Bars are a sunshine-filled treat that come together in minutes. No complicated steps, no endless measuring—just two simple pantry staples baked into a light, tangy, and irresistible dessert.
Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, bake sales, or when you need a last-minute sweet fix, this recipe proves that sometimes the simplest ideas are the most brilliant.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Only 2 ingredients — cake mix + lemon pie filling, that’s it!
- Quick prep — just stir, spread, and bake.
- Bright and zesty flavor — sweet and tart, like a burst of sunshine.
- Crowd pleaser — everyone will think you spent hours making them.
- Beginner-friendly — foolproof even if you’ve never baked before.
🛒 Ingredients
- 1 box (15.25 oz) angel food cake mix (or yellow cake mix)
- 1 can (15 oz) lemon pie filling
Optional for Serving:
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Fresh lemon zest for garnish
Equipment Needed
- 9x13-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula or spoon
- Parchment paper (for easy removal)
- Wire cooling rack
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking pan, or line with parchment for easy removal.
2. Mix
In a large bowl, combine the entire box of cake mix with the can of lemon pie filling. Stir vigorously with a spoon or spatula until a smooth, thick batter forms.
3. Pour & Spread
Transfer the batter into your prepared pan. Spread evenly from edge to edge with a spatula.
4. Bake
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5. Cool & Serve
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Slice into squares, dust with powdered sugar, and enjoy!
💡 Pro Tips for Perfect Lemon Bars
- Use angel food cake mix for a light, fluffy texture—or yellow cake mix for a denser, chewier bar.
- Line with parchment so you can lift the bars out easily for clean slicing.
- Cool completely before cutting; warm bars will be too gooey.
- Upgrade it: Add ½ cup shredded coconut or white chocolate chips before baking for a twist.
🍽️ Serving, Pairing & Storing
Serving Ideas:
- With fresh berries on the side
- A dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence
- As a picnic or potluck dessert
Storage:
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, refrigerate up to 1 week or freeze up to 2 months.
Two-Ingredient Lemon Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9x13 pan.
- Mix cake mix and lemon pie filling until smooth.
- Spread batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake 25–30 minutes, until golden and set.
- Cool completely before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Notes