These healthy lemon bars are light, creamy, and bursting with fresh citrus flavor. Made with a tender gluten-free shortbread-style crust and a smooth Greek yogurt lemon custard, they deliver all the brightness of classic lemon bars with fewer calories and more protein. Perfect for spring, summer, or anytime you want a refreshing dessert that still feels indulgent.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These lemon bars are a great balance of flavor and nutrition. The crust is crisp yet delicate, while the filling is creamy and tangy without being overly sweet. Using Greek yogurt adds protein and a luscious texture, and sweetening with stevia keeps the sugar low. They’re also gluten free, easy to prepare, and ideal for making ahead since they store beautifully in the fridge or freezer.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the crust
1 cup gluten free baking flour or oat flour
2 tablespoons coconut sugar
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon unsweetened almond milk
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the lemon yogurt filling
3 cups plain nonfat or low-fat Greek yogurt
2 large eggs, room temperature
1/8 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon extract
1 teaspoon tapioca flour
2 teaspoons powdered stevia
2 tablespoons lemon zest

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8 × 8 inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, coconut sugar, almond milk, lemon juice, and salt. Mix until smooth. Add the flour and stir until a soft, slightly crumbly dough forms.

Press the dough evenly and firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool for 20 minutes.

While the crust cools, lower the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C). In a separate bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, eggs, lemon juice, lemon extract, tapioca flour, and powdered stevia until smooth and fully combined. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.

Pour the filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Bake for 35 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are just beginning to turn lightly golden.

Remove from the oven and let cool at room temperature for 60 minutes. Transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours. Slice into bars and sprinkle with lemon zest before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 12 bars.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 50 minutes total
Cooling and chilling time: 3 hours
Total time: approximately 4 hours

Storage/Reheating

Store the lemon bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. For longer storage, freeze the bars for up to 30 days. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. These bars are best enjoyed cold and do not require reheating.

FAQs

Can I use regular flour instead of gluten free flour?

Regular flour has not been tested in this recipe and may change the texture. Oat flour or gluten free baking flour works best.

Can I replace stevia with another sweetener?

Yes, you can use about 2 tablespoons of sugar or maple syrup, adjusting to taste.

What type of Greek yogurt should I use?

Plain nonfat or low-fat Greek yogurt works best for a creamy texture and lower calorie count.

Why does the crust need to cool before adding the filling?

Pouring the filling onto a hot crust can cause cracking or separation, so cooling helps maintain a clean layer.

Can I make these bars dairy free?

Dairy-free yogurt alternatives may work, but the texture and protein content will change.

How do I know when the filling is set?

The edges will appear lightly golden and the center will no longer jiggle excessively.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and bake in a 9 × 13 inch pan, adjusting baking time slightly.

Are these lemon bars very sweet?

No, they are lightly sweet with a tangy lemon flavor. You can adjust sweetness to your preference.

Can I skip the lemon extract?

Yes, but the lemon flavor will be slightly less intense. Fresh zest helps compensate.

Do these bars need to stay refrigerated?

Yes, because of the yogurt-based filling, refrigeration is necessary for food safety and texture.

Conclusion

These healthy Greek yogurt lemon bars are proof that dessert can be both satisfying and nourishing. With their bright citrus flavor, creamy texture, and lighter ingredient list, they’re a refreshing treat you can feel good about enjoying. Whether served chilled from the fridge or straight from the freezer, they’re sure to become a favorite low-calorie dessert.

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