2 Ingredient Lemon Bars – The Best Dessert You’ll Ever Bake

2 Ingredient Lemon Bars are the viral, no-fuss treat that every busy home baker needs in their recipe box. With just a can of lemon pie filling and a box of angel food cake mix, you can whip up these soft, zesty bars in minutes. No eggs, no oil, no complicated steps—just two pantry staples that transform into a golden, gooey, citrusy dessert.

Don’t miss our tangy twist in these Lemon Raspberry Cookies if you’re into fresh and fruity flavor combinations.

Why 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars Are Going Viral

What Makes These Bars So Popular on Social Media

2 Ingredient Lemon Bars have exploded in popularity across platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Pinterest—and for good reason. The idea of creating a delicious lemony dessert with just two ingredients feels almost too good to be true. Yet, it works—beautifully.

Unlike traditional lemon bars that require a list of ingredients like butter, eggs, sugar, and fresh lemons, these bars are stripped down to the essentials. All you need is:

• One box of angel food cake mix
• One can of lemon pie filling

People are drawn to this dessert because it’s:

• Practically foolproof
• Quick to prepare (under 5 minutes of active time)
• Budget-friendly
• A total showstopper in both flavor and appearance

It’s also highly shareable—perfect for reels and stories, which is why you’ll see countless variations across social media.

2 Ingredient Lemon Bars

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• Author: Mary
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 20 bars 1x

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Description

2 Ingredient Lemon Bars are the viral, no-fuss treat made with just lemon pie filling and angel food cake mix. Soft, zesty, and ready in minutes—no eggs, no oil, no complicated steps.

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Ingredients

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• 1 box of angel food cake mix (just-add-water type)
• 1 (21-ounce) can of lemon pie filling

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or line with parchment paper.
3. In a large bowl, combine the dry angel food cake mix with the lemon pie filling. Stir gently until just combined.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
5. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and springs back lightly when touched.
6. Cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
7. Optional: Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

Always use a just-add-water angel food cake mix. Do not substitute with traditional mixes that require eggs or oil. Allow bars to cool fully before cutting for clean slices.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar
• Calories: 125
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Minimalist Baking: The Allure of 2 Ingredients

Part of what makes 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars such a hit is the minimalist baking movement. As more people look for ways to simplify their time in the kitchen, this recipe checks all the boxes:

• Fewer dishes to wash
• Zero measuring required
• No need for specialty tools

Minimal ingredients, minimal cleanup, and maximum flavor—that’s the trifecta modern bakers are after.

And if you’re keeping an eye on your pantry or watching your calories, this simple recipe also helps you stay on track. Learn more about calorie-smart baking with our Cottage Cheese Bagels Calories.

Coming up next, we’ll talk about exactly what kind of ingredients work best—and which combinations you’ll want to avoid.

Ingredients Spotlight – What You Really Need

Angel Food Cake Mix: Best Brands and Variations

If you’re making 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars, the right cake mix is crucial to get that signature light, fluffy texture. This recipe may be easy, but the ingredients still matter—a lot.

Angel food cake mix provides the lift and structure in these bars because it’s packed with whipped egg whites in powdered form. Not just any cake mix will do.

Here are the best options to ensure your 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars come out perfect every time:

Helpful Tip: Always choose a “just-add-water” angel food cake mix. Avoid traditional or two-step versions, which need eggs or oil—they won’t blend properly with lemon pie filling and will ruin the simplicity of your 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars.

Looking for another pantry-friendly winner? Check out these 3 Ingredient Oatmeal Cookies for a healthy dessert alternative.

Can You Use Other Cake Mixes Instead?

You might wonder if yellow or vanilla cake mixes can work in 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars. The short answer? Not really.

Angel food cake mix is special because of its built-in meringue structure. Other cake mixes don’t offer that rise, which is what gives these lemon bars their fluffiness. Swapping it out may leave you with flat or soggy results.

So stick with the real deal to ensure your 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars don’t fall flat—literally.

Lemon Pie Filling vs. Fresh Lemons – Which One Wins?

The other half of this two-part recipe? Lemon pie filling. It’s what gives 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars their rich, tart flavor and gooey interior.

Here are a few pie filling brands that pair perfectly with angel food cake mix:

• Lucky Leaf Lemon Pie Filling – Bright flavor and a smooth finish
• Duncan Hines Comstock – Well-balanced citrus and sweetness
• Great Value Lemon Filling – Affordable, with solid flavor punch

If you’re tempted to squeeze fresh lemons instead—hold that thought. The lemon juice from real lemons is too runny and acidic to hold structure in this recipe. Lemon pie filling is thicker and pre-sweetened, so it binds with the dry cake mix to create that magic texture unique to 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars.

If you’re planning to experiment with flavors, consider this: lemon curd may add richness, but you’ll need to tweak the ratios. And if you’re trying to keep things ultra simple, nothing beats classic lemon pie filling.

Looking for more nostalgic flavor combos? Discover great ideas like our Date Cake.

How to Make 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Results

Making 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars is so simple, it almost feels like cheating. But once you taste how soft, lemony, and fluffy they turn out—you’ll know it’s the real deal.

Here’s how to make these dreamy lemon bars from start to finish:

Ingredients

• 1 box of angel food cake mix (just-add-water type only)
• 1 (21-ounce) can of lemon pie filling (any high-quality brand)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   A properly heated oven helps your lemon bars rise evenly.
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
   Use non-stick spray or line the pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
3. Mix the ingredients together in a large bowl.
   Pour the full contents of the lemon pie filling and the dry angel food cake mix into the bowl. Stir gently by hand (no need for a mixer). The batter will be fluffy and slightly airy.
4. Pour the mixture into your prepared pan.
   Use a spatula to gently spread the mixture, making sure it reaches all the way to the edges for an even layer.
5. Bake for 25–30 minutes.
   You’ll know they’re done when the top turns golden brown and springs back when lightly touched. Don’t worry if the center still jiggles slightly—it will set as it cools.
6. Cool completely before cutting.
   Let them cool in the pan for 30–60 minutes. You can also refrigerate them for firmer slices.
7. Optional: Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
   Adds a beautiful finish and balances the tanginess.

That’s it! You just made 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars from scratch—no eggs, no oil, and no mixer required.

If you love easy throw-together desserts like this, be sure to check out our Rhubarb Dump Cake—a fuss-free, one-pan recipe that’s just as delicious. It’s the perfect blend of sweet and tart, baked under a golden, buttery topping that makes every bite comforting and satisfying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Baking

Even though these bars are simple, here are a few things to watch out for:

1. Using the wrong cake mix

Only use angel food cake mix that requires just water. Two-step or traditional mixes won’t rise properly and may turn out dense or soggy.

2. Overmixing the batter

Overmixing can knock the air out of the batter, making your 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars less fluffy. Stir just until combined.

3. Underbaking or overbaking

Watch your bars closely in the final 5 minutes. If they look pale and jiggly, they need more time. If they’re getting too brown, remove them immediately.

4. Cutting before cooling

If you slice too early, the bars will fall apart. Cool completely to get clean, sharp edges.

5. Adding extra ingredients too soon

While it’s tempting to toss in extras like zest or vanilla, don’t mess with the ratio until you’ve mastered the base recipe.

Making 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars is all about trusting the process—simple steps, quick bake, big reward. These bars are ideal for parties, family dinners, or just a late-night lemon craving.

Want to take your lemon obsession further? Don’t miss our bright and buttery Whipped Honey Butter—it’s a game-changer on warm desserts.

Tools You’ll Need for These Lemon Bars

Best Bakeware and Pans for Even Baking

You don’t need a fully stocked kitchen to make 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars, but a few key tools can make the difference between “okay” and “oh wow!”

The most important piece? The right baking dish.

Best pan sizes for lemon bars:

A metal or glass 9×13-inch pan is ideal for most home bakers. Metal heats quickly and gives a firmer bottom crust, while glass provides even heating and lets you monitor doneness.

Avoid dark nonstick pans—they may brown the bars too quickly.

Don’t forget to prep your pan right. A light spray of oil or lining with parchment paper ensures your 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars won’t stick and lift cleanly after cooling.

Optional Tools That Make Life Easier

Though you can make these bars with just a bowl and spoon, a few extra tools will enhance the process:

Must-have helpers for smooth baking:

• Silicone spatula – for folding batter and spreading evenly
• Cooling rack – speeds up the cooldown and prevents soggy bottoms
• Offset knife or bench scraper – gives clean slices once bars are set
• Powdered sugar sifter – to dust your lemon bars like a pro

Want to level up your baking toolkit even more? Looking for inspiration? Try our go-to essentials in Cottage Cheese Bagels Calories, where we break down bakeware used for high-protein breads.

While these tools aren’t required, they help your 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars look bakery-level — perfect if you’re serving them at events, gifting them, or snapping a few drool-worthy pics for Instagram.

Bonus: Can you make them in an air fryer?

Yes—but only in a small batch using a square cake pan or silicone mold that fits inside your air fryer. Lower the temp slightly (around 325°F) and keep an eye on the color and puffiness.

Expert Tips for the Best 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars

Texture Secrets: Getting the Right Balance of Gooey and Fluffy

The magic of 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars lies in their texture—a perfect balance of fluffy cake and soft lemon center. If yours come out too dense, dry, or sticky, you’re probably just a small tweak away from perfection.

Here are expert tips to nail that iconic lemon bar texture every time:

1. Mix gently, not vigorously

Angel food cake mix relies on air. Gently stir the batter just until everything is combined, helping maintain its light, airy texture. Overmixing deflates it and makes the bars dense.

2. Use room temperature filling

Cold pie filling can thicken the batter too quickly, preventing even distribution. Allow the lemon pie filling to rest at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before mixing, so it loosens slightly and blends more smoothly into the batter.

3. Bake in the center rack

Even heat is key. Avoid baking on the bottom or top rack of your oven, as uneven temperatures may lead to overbaked edges or an undercooked middle.

4. Don’t underbake

If you take them out too early, the bars may collapse in the center. Bake until the top turns a light golden brown and gently springs back when pressed with your fingertip.

5. Cool completely before slicing

Hot bars fall apart. Chill in the fridge for an hour after baking to get clean, picture-perfect squares of 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars.

Flavor Boosters: Optional Add-ins Like Zest or Vanilla

While the base recipe shines on its own, you can get creative without ruining the “2 ingredient” simplicity. These subtle upgrades add complexity without adding effort.

Here are a few easy add-ins:

Don’t overdo it. One extra ingredient is fine—but going beyond that turns your 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars into a whole new recipe.

Want more simple yet creative dessert twists? Check out our flavorful 3 Ingredient Oatmeal Cookies—they’re easy to customize, just like these bars.

And if you’re craving a creamy pairing, don’t miss our rich Whipped Honey Butter—a surprising match for warm lemon bars straight from the oven.

Storage, Freezing & Shelf Life

How to Store Your Lemon Bars to Keep Them Fresh

You’ve just baked a pan of warm, golden 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars—now what? Whether you’re saving leftovers or prepping for an event, storing them correctly is key to preserving their texture and flavor.

Here’s how to store them properly:

• At room temperature:
  Store cooled lemon bars in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep them away from heat or direct sunlight.
• In the refrigerator:
  For longer freshness, store in the fridge for up to 5 days. They’ll stay moist and flavorful—just let them sit at room temp for 10 minutes before serving to soften the texture.
• Stacking tips:
  If stacking bars in a container, place wax paper or parchment between layers to avoid sticking.

Storing your 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars the right way ensures they taste just as amazing on day three as they did fresh out of the oven.

Love versatile desserts that store well? Don’t miss our crowd-pleasing Date Cake — it actually tastes better after a day or two.

Can You Freeze 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars? A Quick Guide

Yes! These lemon bars are very freezer-friendly, which makes them ideal for prepping ahead for holidays, parties, or just to satisfy a lemon craving anytime.

Here’s how to freeze them without compromising taste:

1. Cool completely – Never freeze warm bars, or they’ll become gummy.
2. Cut into squares – Pre-cutting makes it easy to grab only what you need later.
3. Wrap tightly – Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap or foil.
4. Place in a freezer-safe bag or container – Add a label with the date.

Freezer shelf life:

• Best enjoyed within 2 to 3 months
• Thaw at room temperature for 1 hour or in the fridge overnight
• Optional: Warm briefly in the microwave for a “fresh-baked” experience

Even after freezing, the texture of 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars holds up incredibly well—soft in the center, fluffy on the bottom, and bursting with lemon flavor.

Want more freezer-friendly treats with bold flavor? Discover great ideas like our Rhubarb Dump Cake — just as easy to make and store!

Creative Variations and Upgrades

3 Ingredient Twist Ideas You’ll Love

While the classic 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars are iconic for their simplicity, a small third ingredient can take them from “easy” to “extraordinary” — without sacrificing speed or convenience.

Here are some fun 3-ingredient upgrades that add flavor or texture without overcomplicating things:

Each of these upgrades enhances your 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars without interfering with the core simplicity that makes them so irresistible. Just mix your third ingredient in with the batter before baking, or sprinkle it on top.

Pro Tip: If adding a moist ingredient (like cream cheese), reduce the lemon filling slightly to keep your bars from becoming too wet.

Looking for more minimal-ingredient dessert inspiration? Check out these chewy, no-fuss 3 Ingredient Oatmeal Cookies—they’re equally fun to remix.

Making It Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free, or Vegan

Dietary restrictions? No problem. You can still enjoy a delicious pan of 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars with just a few smart swaps.

1. Dairy-Free Version

Good news—most lemon pie fillings and angel food cake mixes are already dairy-free. But always double-check the labels for ingredients like milk powder or casein.

Recommended swaps:

• Use a certified dairy-free cake mix (like Cherrybrook Kitchen or Simple Mills)
• Stick with plant-based pie fillings (many store brands qualify)

2. Gluten-Free Version

You can easily make gluten-free 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars with a GF angel food cake mix. Here’s how:

• Try brands like Kinnikinnick or King Arthur Baking
• Ensure your lemon pie filling is labeled gluten-free

Be aware: gluten-free cake mixes may rise differently, so keep an eye on baking time and doneness.

3. Vegan Version

This is the trickiest since angel food cake mix usually includes powdered egg whites. Fully vegan versions of this dessert require more substitutions and aren’t truly “2 ingredient.”

Instead, consider:

• Using a vegan vanilla cake mix and lemon curd (watch texture!)
• Adding aquafaba (whipped chickpea liquid) as a fluffing agent

But if staying 100% vegan is your goal, it’s worth experimenting—with caution and maybe a test batch.

For a soft, sweet vegan-friendly spread you can add on top, don’t miss our luscious Whipped Honey Butter — it complements citrus treats beautifully.

Nutrition, Calories, and Health Considerations

How Many Calories Are in a Lemon Bar?

Wondering if 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars fit into your daily calorie budget? You’re not alone. While they’re made with only two ingredients, they still deliver plenty of flavor—and a bit of sugar, too.

Here’s a basic nutritional breakdown (based on one 2-inch square serving, assuming a 9×13 pan yields 20 bars):

Keep in mind: The values will vary depending on which brand of angel food cake mix and lemon pie filling you use.

Low-fat & cholesterol-free?

Surprisingly, yes. Thanks to the fat-free nature of angel food cake mix and fruit-based filling, these lemon bars are naturally low in fat and contain no cholesterol—which is a win if you’re cutting down.

If you’re watching calories but still love dessert, don’t miss our tangy Lemon Raspberry Cookies — a refreshing treat that balances flavor and lightness.

Swaps for Healthier Lemon Bar Recipes

While the original recipe is already light compared to traditional lemon bars (which contain butter, flour, and eggs), you can make a few smart swaps to cut back on sugar and carbs.

Here are some ways to lighten it up:

If you’re managing diabetes, carbs, or calories, the sugar-free options are worth trying. Just keep in mind that some sugar-free pie fillings may affect texture.

Need help balancing taste and nutrition? Check out our smart guide on Cottage Cheese Bagels Calories — a perfect example of high-protein, low-fat comfort food.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

How to Serve 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars for Events

Whether you’re baking for a casual afternoon treat or preparing dessert for a baby shower, 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars are incredibly versatile. With their vibrant yellow hue and soft, springy texture, they’re a natural standout on any dessert table.

Here are smart ways to serve them for different occasions:

For Brunch or Tea Parties:

• Cut into small 1-inch bites and place on a tiered serving tray
• Add edible flowers or mint sprigs as garnishes for a delicate, upscale vibe
• Pair with iced herbal tea or sparkling lemonade

For Bake Sales or Picnics:

• Wrap each lemon bar in parchment and tie with twine for a rustic, hand-wrapped look
• Store in a cooler or shaded tray to prevent melting or softening in the sun
• Label with a cute tag like “2 Ingredient Lemon Bars – No Fuss, All Flavor!”

For Kids’ Parties:

• Use cookie cutters to cut into fun shapes (stars, hearts, circles)
• Add a light drizzle of icing or melted white chocolate on top for visual interest
• Let kids dust their own bars with powdered sugar as a DIY dessert station

For Potlucks or Family Dinners:

• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream
• Offer a lemon curd drizzle or berry compote on the side for custom flavor
• Display on a wooden cutting board with fresh lemon slices for a rustic touch

Hosting a get-together? Don’t miss our ultra-shareable Rhubarb Dump Cake — another laid-back dessert that wins hearts.

Easy Garnishes to Elevate Presentation

Even though 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars are simple, you can make them look bakery-worthy with just a few final touches:

If you’re planning to serve these bars at a holiday party or shower, styling them with even one garnish can make them the star of the table. Presentation goes a long way in creating that “wow” moment.

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