These 2 ingredient lemon bars are one of the quickest and easiest desserts you can make. You can prepare soft, cake-like lemon bars with no fuss, no complicated steps, and just two pantry staples. They’re ideal for last-minute get-togethers, bake sales, or whenever you want a homemade treat in a hurry.
“When you need a dessert, it doesn’t get easier than this. You only need two ingredients!”
-Becky
Lemon angel bars always impress my guests. People are often surprised when I tell them they were made with only two ingredients. They’re delicious and come together so quickly that they feel like a secret shortcut. Whether you’re serving a crowd or craving something sweet after dinner, these lemon bars are a reliable go-to.
Ingredients You Will Need
- 1 box angel food cake mix – Use a 1-step mix (just add water). It creates a light, fluffy texture.
- 1 can lemon pie filling (about 21 ounces) – Provides the lemon flavor and moisture.
- Powdered sugar (optional) – A light dusting adds a pretty finish once cooled.
A full ingredient list is included in the recipe card below.
Recipe Variations
- Try other fruit fillings – Replace the lemon filling with cherry, strawberry, or blueberry. Puree chunky fillings first for a smoother batter.
- Boost the citrus – Add a teaspoon of lemon zest or a splash of fresh lemon juice for extra brightness.
- Serve with toppings – Finish with whipped cream or a spoonful of lemon curd for added richness.
How to Make 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Ensure the oven is fully preheated before you mix the batter so the bars rise and bake evenly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the angel food cake mix and the lemon pie filling. Stir gently until they’re thoroughly combined and the batter is light and fluffy.
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or spray it with nonstick spray. Pour the batter into the dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake on the center rack for about 25 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool the bars on a wire rack for 1–2 hours. For cleaner slices, refrigerate them for an hour after they’ve cooled. Dust with powdered sugar just before serving, if you like.
Expert Tips
- Use the right mix: Pick a one-step angel food cake mix that only requires water (no eggs or oil).
- Mix gently: Stir just until combined to retain a light, airy texture.
- Watch the bake time: Check at 25 minutes to avoid overbaking, which dries the bars out.
- Chill for neat slices: Refrigerating after cooling helps the bars set and makes cutting easier.
2-Ingredient Lemon Bars FAQs
Yes. Cherry, strawberry, or blueberry pie fillings work well. If the filling is chunky, puree it first for a smoother batter.
Not exactly. These bars have a sponge-cake–like texture—soft and airy with sweet lemon flavor—rather than the tangy curd and buttery shortbread crust of classic lemon bars.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Refrigerate up to 5 days or freeze between layers of wax paper for longer storage.
Yes. They hold up well when made a day ahead—just chill and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
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Dips
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2 Ingredient Lemon Bars
Equipment
- 9×13 Baking Dish
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
- 1 Box angel food cake mix (15–16 ounces)
- 1 can lemon pie filling (about 21 ounces)
Optional: Powdered Sugar
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the angel food cake mix and lemon pie filling. Stir gently until the batter is light and fluffy.
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour in the batter and spread it evenly.
- Bake on the center rack for about 25 minutes, until golden and a toothpick comes out clean or with moist crumbs.
- Cool on a wire rack for 1–2 hours. For neat slices, refrigerate for 1 hour after cooling. Dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired.
Notes
- Use the right cake mix: Choose a one-step angel food cake mix that requires only water.
- Don’t overmix: Stir just until combined to keep the texture light.
- Watch doneness: Check at 25 minutes to avoid drying the bars.
- Chill before slicing: Refrigerating after cooling helps the bars set for cleaner cuts.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 33 g
Protein: 2 g
Fat: 0.1 g
Sodium: 311 mg
Sugar: 23 g
Nutrition information is an approximation.