
Plum-Extract Infused Plum Lemon Bars | Intense Plum Flavor Dessert Bars
Dolce Flav
Rated 5.0 stars by 1 users
Category
Plum
Author:
Dolce Flav
Servings
16
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
25 minutes
These Plum-Extract Infused Plum Lemon Bars deliver a burst of plum flavor in every bite—thanks to the powerful combination of fresh plum purée and plum flavor extract. The buttery crust provides a tender, slightly crispy base, while the tangy-sweet plum lemon filling creates a vibrant, jammy topping. Simple to prepare yet striking in taste and appearance, these bars are perfect for serving at brunch, tea time, or as a fruity dessert star.
Ingredients
Crust:
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1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
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½ cup unsalted butter, softened
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¼ cup granulated sugar
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Pinch of salt
Filling:
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1 cup fresh plum purée (about 4–5 ripe plums, pitted and blended)
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1 teaspoon plum flavor extract
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½ cup granulated sugar
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2 large eggs
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2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
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Zest of 1 lemon
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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Pinch of salt
Directions
Prepare crust base: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix the softened butter with sugar and salt until creamy. Add flour, blending until smooth, then press evenly into a lined 8×8-inch baking pan. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges just begin to turn golden.
Blend the plum-lemon filling: In a mixing bowl, whisk together plum purée, plum flavor extract, sugar, eggs, lemon juice, zest, flour, and salt until completely smooth and glossy.
Bake to set: Pour the plum-lemon mixture over the warm crust. Return to the oven and bake for approximately 20–25 minutes, or until the center is set and no longer jiggly.
Cool and slice: Let the bars cool completely in the pan, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for clean slicing. Cut into 16 squares and serve.
Recipe Note
FAQs (Plum-Extract Infused Plum Lemon Bars)
Can I skip the plum extract?
Yes—but using it deepens the plum aroma and flavor, making the bars more intense. Without it, the fresh plum purée alone will still impart a light taste.
Can I use bottled plum jam instead of purée?
You could, but fresh purée gives the best texture and natural brightness.
Can I use orange zest instead of lemon?
Absolutely. Orange zest pairs beautifully with plum for a softer, sweeter flavor profile.
How long do these bars last?
Stored in an airtight container, they stay fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Can I freeze these bars?
Yes—freeze in a single layer with parchment paper between squares for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.
How much extract should I use?
Start with 1 teaspoon; plum extract is strong. Adjust to taste in future batches.
Are these bars gluten-free?
Swap all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free blend; the texture holds up well.
Can I make this vegan?
Yes—use vegan butter, and replace eggs with flax or chia-egg alternatives.
Can I adjust for less sweet taste?
Reduce sugar in the filling by 1–2 tablespoons; plating with tart fruit balances sweetness naturally.
What other fruits pair well with plum extract?
Try mixing in a swirl of raspberry or blackberry purée for a layered fruity flavor.