Healthy Vegan Lemon Bliss Bars

Lemon-Bars, vegan, whole food plant-based, easy, healthy, oil-free

Luscious lemon bars just got a healthy upgrade. These light and refreshing lemon bars are made with tofu for a creamy filling packed with bright, zesty lemon flavor. Naturally sweetened with maple syrup, they’re the perfect treat for those craving something both delicious and wholesome. These sunny yellow squares are sure to satisfy your citrus cravings without compromising on taste!

Prep Time15

Cook Time30

Chilling Time3

Total Time3 45

Servings: bars

Calories: 208kcal

Author: Hannah Kaminsky

Ingredients

Crust

2 cups almond flour
1/4 cup ground flaxseed
2 tablespoons maple syrup or date syrup
3-5 tablespoons water
1/8 teaspoon salt

Lemon Curd Filling

10.9 ounce package extra-firm silken tofu must be "silken" otherwise it will be gritty
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 cup lemon juice
2/3 cup maple syrup
3 tablespoons cornstarch or potato starch
2 1/2 teaspoons agar agar powder
1/2 teaspoon ground tumeric
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350℉ degrees. Line a 9 x 9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk together the almond flour, flaxseeds, maple syrup, 3 tablespoons water, and salt. If needed, slowly drizzle in a little bit of additional water while stirring, just until the mixture comes together in a thick, cohesive dough. It should be about the consistency of wet clay.
Transfer to your prepared baking dish and use your spatula or lightly moistened hands to press it out into an even layer. Bake for 22 - 25 minutes, until golden around the edges.
Meanwhile, in your blender or food processor, combine the tofu, lemon zest and juice, maple syrup, cornstarch or potato starch, agar, turmeric, and salt. Blend until completely smooth, pausing to scrape down the sides of the canister as needed.
Pour the mixture into a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk continuously until thickened and bubbling gently; 5 – 8 minutes. Immediately turn off the head and stir in the vanilla.
Pour the filling over the baked crust, smoothing it into an even layer with your spatula. Let stand until cooled to room temperature, then refrigerate for 2 – 3 hours, until thoroughly chilled. Slice into squares and enjoy!

Notes

Serving suggestion: Lemon bars speak for themselves; nothing else is needed! Of course, if you’d like to gild the lily, they’re even more decadent and delightful alongside a scoop of banana “ice cream” or tofu whipped cream.

Notes: The turmeric not only adds a beautiful golden color but also provides a subtle earthy flavor without overpowering the lemon. However, if you’re not a fan of its flavor, you can reduce the amount to ¼ teaspoon or leave it out entirely.

If you’re feeling creative, go ahead and switch up the citrus. A blend of lemon and lime, or even orange or grapefruit, could add a fun twist while keeping that bright, tangy flavor.

Nutrition