2 ingredient angel food lemon bars are one of my all-time favorite quick bakes. Two pantry staples—angel food cake mix and lemon pie filling—transform into a cloud-like dessert bursting with bright, sunlit citrus. And yes, it really is that easy.
Hi, I’m Molly Harrington—a home baker based in Asheville, North Carolina. I’ve been baking since I was tall enough to stand on a phone book in my grandma’s cozy Ohio kitchen. Over the years, I’ve learned that not every great dessert needs a dozen ingredients or hours of prep. Sometimes, the best treats are the easiest ones—like these 2 ingredient angel food lemon bars.
This recipe came to life on a hectic afternoon when I had just minutes to whip something up for a last-minute potluck. I reached for what I had: a box of angel food mix and a can of lemon pie filling. Thirty minutes later, I had golden, fluffy bars cooling on the counter—bars that disappeared before I could plate the second batch.
These 2 ingredient angel food lemon bars are light, tangy, and practically foolproof. Perfect for new bakers, busy families, or anyone craving a quick burst of citrusy sweetness without the fuss.
Table of Contents
Introduction to 2 Ingredient Angel Food Lemon Bars
What Makes These Lemon Bars So Popular?
The charm of 2 ingredient angel food lemon bars lies in their balance of simplicity and flavor. You get the satisfaction of baking from scratch—without the scratch part. No eggs, no butter, no bowls of flour. Just one box of angel food cake mix and one can of lemon pie filling combine to make something that feels like a little miracle.
It’s not just the ease that wins people over. These lemon bars are light and airy from the angel food base, while the lemon adds a zingy punch of brightness. Together, they create a treat that’s not too sweet, not too tart, and incredibly satisfying.
They’ve also become wildly popular on social media, often called “sunshine lemon bars” for their golden color and vibrant citrus flavor. They’re shareable, crowd-pleasing, and ideal for everything from baby showers to barbecues.
The Simplicity Behind the Viral 2 Ingredient Dessert Trend
What really fuels the success of these bars is how beginner-friendly they are. You don’t need a mixer or a long list of ingredients. If you’ve got a mixing bowl and a spatula, you’ve got everything you need. It’s the rare dessert that wins over both pastry pros and first-time bakers with equal enthusiasm.
Two-ingredient desserts aren’t just quick—they’re a gateway, turning anyone into a baker with minimal effort. These bars lower the barrier to baking. No matter if you’re a college student living in a cramped dorm or a busy parent looking for a fast treat for a bake sale, this recipe is here to help.
And because this method works with other flavors too—like cherry or peach—it’s easy to build your own variations. But the lemon version? That’s where the magic really happens.
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2 Ingredient Angel Food Lemon Bars: The Ultimate Easy Dessert Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12
Description
These 2 ingredient angel food lemon bars are light, fluffy, and bursting with citrus flavor. Just a box of angel food cake mix and lemon pie filling!
Ingredients
1 box of one-step angel food cake mix
1 can (21 oz) of lemon pie filling
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, gently fold the lemon pie filling into the dry cake mix. Do not overmix.
Pour the batter into a 9×13-inch greased or parchment-lined baking dish.
Bake for 28–33 minutes until golden brown and springy to the touch.
Cool completely, slice into bars, and dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Notes
Don’t use two-step cake mix.
Avoid electric mixers to preserve the fluff.
Optional toppings: whipped cream, lemon zest, berries.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients Breakdown – What You Need and Why It Works
Angel Food Cake Mix: Why One-Step Is Essential
One of the keys to making perfect 2 ingredient angel food lemon bars is choosing the right cake mix. You must use a one-step angel food cake mix, the kind that only needs water. This type includes both the egg whites and flour mixture, giving your bars that signature fluffy texture that makes them so addictive.
If you accidentally use the two-step kind, where egg whites come separately, your bars likely won’t rise properly. They’ll turn out too dense or dry—nowhere near the soft, spongy consistency that defines great 2 ingredient angel food lemon bars.
Some readers have asked whether gluten-free mixes work in this recipe. While you can try it, many people report poor results. These bars rely on the aeration and volume that only a traditional angel food base delivers.
Lemon Pie Filling: The Tangy Game-Changer
The second star of this recipe is lemon pie filling. It brings the vibrant citrus flavor that sets 2 ingredient angel food lemon bars apart from other shortcut desserts. Thick, sweet, and just tart enough, it blends seamlessly into the cake mix without making the batter too runny or heavy.
Make sure to use actual lemon pie filling—not lemon pudding or curd. Pie filling has the right structure and moisture balance. Using anything else could cause your bars to fall flat or not bake evenly.
To amplify the lemon flavor even more, stir in a bit of fresh lemon zest or layer thin lemon slices on top before baking. These extras add brightness and make your bars look as good as they taste.
These 2 ingredient angel food lemon bars are also super easy to customize. Top them with powdered sugar, whipped cream, candied peel, or even fresh berries for a little twist that makes a big impression.
How to Make 2 Ingredient Angel Food Lemon Bars – Step-by-Step Guide
Step-by-Step Instructions for Foolproof Results
Making 2 ingredient angel food lemon bars couldn’t be easier—but getting that perfect golden top and airy texture still takes a bit of care. Follow these steps to get it perfect on your first try.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). A properly preheated oven ensures the bars rise evenly and bake to a light golden finish.
Step 2: Prepare Your Mixing Tools
You’ll need a large glass mixing bowl, a spatula, and a 9×13-inch baking pan. For easy cleanup, line the pan with parchment paper or spray it well with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
Empty the full can of lemon pie filling into your mixing bowl. Add the dry one-step angel food cake mix on top. Do not add water or follow the box instructions.
Gently fold the two ingredients together using a spatula. Avoid overmixing. The angel food cake mix is very light and airy—it’s what gives these 2 ingredient angel food lemon bars their signature fluff. Mixing too aggressively could deflate the batter.
Step 4: Pour and Smooth the Batter
Carefully transfer the batter into your prepared pan. Use the spatula to smooth it out evenly. Try not to press it down; the airiness is what gives the bars their soft texture.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Set the pan on the middle rack of your preheated oven. Bake for 28 to 33 minutes, until the top turns golden and gently bounces back when pressed.
Step 6: Cool Completely Before Cutting
Allow the bars to rest in the pan for a minimum of 30 minutes to cool down. Cutting too early can cause them to crumble. After they’ve cooled, lift the bars out using the parchment paper (if you lined the pan), then cut them into squares.
Optional: Dust with powdered sugar or add toppings like whipped cream, lemon glaze, or fresh fruit before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Mixing and Baking
Even the simplest recipes can go sideways without a few best practices. Here are some key mistakes to avoid when baking 2 ingredient angel food lemon bars:
- Don’t add water: Follow the box instructions and your bars will flop. Stick to just the dry mix and pie filling.
- Avoid overmixing: Too much folding deflates the batter and leads to flat, gummy bars.
- Use the right pan: A glass or light-colored metal pan works best for even browning.
- Don’t skip cooling time: These bars need to set before slicing or they’ll fall apart.
Best Tools & Equipment for Lemon Bars That Bake Perfectly
Essential Bakeware: Glass vs. Metal Pan?
When baking 2 ingredient angel food lemon bars, the pan you use can have a real impact on texture and evenness. A 9×13-inch baking dish is the standard, but the material matters.
Glass pans are excellent for retaining heat, which helps your lemon bars cook more evenly and stay soft and moist. Just be sure to reduce the baking time slightly or start checking a few minutes early—glass holds heat, so overbaking can happen fast.
Light-colored metal pans, by contrast, heat up more quickly. They’ll give your bars firmer edges and a more pronounced golden top. Avoid dark nonstick pans, as they can overbrown the base.
Regardless of your pan type, lining with parchment paper or using nonstick spray is a must. It helps the bars release easily and keeps cleanup simple.
Want to experiment? Divide the batter between two smaller pans—one glass and one metal—to find which texture you like best.
Mixing Bowls, Spatulas & Other Handy Tools
Making 2 ingredient angel food lemon bars is refreshingly simple, and the tools you need are just as basic.
Large Mixing Bowl – Choose one with tall sides to prevent the airy angel food mix from puffing out. A glass bowl with a handle is especially helpful for controlled folding.
Rubber Spatula – Ideal for gently combining ingredients without deflating the batter. Avoid electric mixers—they tend to knock out the volume that makes these bars light.
Precut Parchment Paper – A baker’s best friend. It makes removal easy and keeps the edges clean when slicing.
Heat-Resistant Potholders – Essential for safe handling, especially when using glass pans at higher temperatures.
Optional but handy: a cooling rack, dough scraper for cleaner slices, and an airtight container to keep your bars fresh for up to three days.
These tools aren’t just convenient—they help ensure your 2 ingredient angel food lemon bars come out fluffy, golden, and picture-perfect every time.
Creative Add-Ons & Variations to Try
Flavor Boosters: Lemon Zest, Glaze, and More
While 2 ingredient angel food lemon bars are perfect just the way they are, a few small additions can take them from simple to stunning. If you’re feeling creative, start by experimenting with lemon zest. Just a teaspoon or two folded into the batter before baking will intensify the citrus flavor and give the bars a fresh, fragrant kick.
A lemon glaze is another easy upgrade. Mix powdered sugar with a bit of fresh lemon juice and drizzle it over the cooled bars for a glossy finish and added tang. You can also dust them lightly with powdered sugar right before serving for a classic bakery-style look.
Want a more elegant presentation? Try placing thin lemon slices on top of the batter before baking. They caramelize slightly in the oven and offer a beautiful pop of color with a tart bite.
These additions won’t alter the simple magic of your 2 ingredient angel food lemon bars—they’ll just add a little flair for special occasions.
Fruit Toppings & Serving Enhancements
Looking to add color or texture? Fresh berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries pair perfectly with the soft lemony base. Serve the bars with a dollop of whipped cream and a few scattered berries on top for a refreshing dessert that looks far more elaborate than it is.
Another tasty twist? A spoonful of lemon curd spread over the cooled bars before slicing. It adds richness without overwhelming the light texture of the angel food.
During summer months, try chilling the bars for an hour before serving. The cooler temperature makes them extra refreshing—and perfect for hot days when you still want a baked treat without feeling weighed down.
You can also cut your bars into bite-sized cubes, place them on skewers with fresh fruit, and serve them as lemon bar kabobs at your next party or brunch.
These tweaks allow you to adapt 2 ingredient angel food lemon bars to any occasion—without compromising their quick, low-effort charm.
evate them with a few garnishes for parties and holidays.
Cut them into neat squares for a clean look, or slice into triangles and fan them across a serving platter. Add a dusting of powdered sugar, a single fresh berry, or a mint leaf for a pop of color.
Hosting brunch? Stack smaller pieces with a touch of whipped cream between layers to create mini dessert towers. These little touches go a long way in making this easy dessert look professionally plated.
If preparing ahead, bake your bars the day before and add any toppings right before serving. This ensures the bars stay light and the toppings fresh.
Storing, Serving, and Meal Prep Tips
How to Store Lemon Bars Without Losing Texture
One of the many perks of making 2 ingredient angel food lemon bars is how well they keep after baking. Thanks to the airy structure and simple ingredients, they hold up beautifully for days—making them a smart choice for party prep or quick weekday treats.
Once your lemon bars have cooled completely, transfer them to an airtight container. You can keep them at room temperature for up to 3 days. If your kitchen tends to get warm, consider storing them in the fridge to preserve their texture.
If stacking the bars, layer a piece of parchment or wax paper between rows to prevent them from sticking or tearing. This keeps the top layer looking fresh and maintains the light, fluffy bite that defines good 2 ingredient angel food lemon bars.
Want to extend their life even further? These bars freeze exceptionally well. Simply wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or in the refrigerator overnight for best results.
Even after freezing, the soft and spongy texture of these 2 ingredient angel food lemon bars stays intact, making them ideal for baking ahead of time.
Serving Suggestions for Parties, Holidays, and Everyday Treats
Despite their simplicity, 2 ingredient angel food lemon bars can easily be dressed up for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a brunch, baby shower, or just a Wednesday night dinner, they adapt beautifully to your needs.
Cut into even squares for a clean, professional look, or slice into slender triangles for something a bit more elegant. Add a dusting of powdered sugar, top with whipped cream, or garnish with berries and mint for a fresh, colorful finish.
Planning a party? Stack mini squares into towers with a small swirl of whipped cream between layers for a plated dessert that looks restaurant-ready.
And if you’re prepping the day before, go ahead and bake them—just hold off on garnishes until just before serving to keep things looking and tasting their best.
Comparing with Other Easy Desserts
2 Ingredient Cherry Bars, Peach Bars & More
If you’ve fallen for 2 ingredient angel food lemon bars, you’re not alone—they’re a kitchen favorite in homes everywhere. But did you know you can use the same exact method to create other easy fruit-based bars? That’s right. With just a box of one-step angel food cake mix and a can of pie filling, your dessert options are wide open.
2 ingredient cherry bars are a fruity alternative. Simply swap the lemon filling for cherry pie filling, and you’ll get vibrant, ruby-colored bars with that same soft, airy texture. They’re tart, sweet, and every bit as effortless.
Another popular option? 2 ingredient peach bars. The subtle sweetness of canned peaches pairs beautifully with the angel food cake base, creating a sunny, golden treat that’s perfect for potlucks and outdoor gatherings.
What makes this dessert hack so versatile is its simplicity. No electric mixers, no eggs, and no stress—just mix and bake. You still get the cloud-like softness and tangy fruit flavors without complicating your process.
While 2 ingredient angel food lemon bars might be the original viral sensation, cherry, blueberry, and peach variations are gaining ground fast. The process never changes—just the fruit. That makes these bars perfect for seasonal twists or clearing out pantry extras.
Once you’re comfortable with the lemon version, it’s incredibly easy to branch out and try new combinations. You can even mix two pie fillings for a blended flavor bar. It’s all about creativity built on a reliable baking base.
If lemon is your go-to but you want options, these variations deliver all the ease and fun of 2 ingredient angel food lemon bars with a unique twist every time.
How Do They Stack Against Traditional Lemon Bars?
Traditional lemon bars are rich, silky, and layered with shortbread and curd. But they also take time, require more ingredients, and demand careful temperature control.
In contrast, 2 ingredient angel food lemon bars come together in one bowl, bake in under 30 minutes, and don’t need a crust. The result? Less cleanup, fewer dishes, and more time enjoying dessert instead of making it.
They also have a lighter texture and are naturally lower in fat—no butter, no eggs, and no dairy required. That makes them not only faster to prepare but also easier to digest for those with dietary concerns.
So when you’re deciding between a traditional lemon bar and this shortcut version, just ask yourself what you want more—layers and labor, or flavor and ease? With 2 ingredient angel food lemon bars, the answer is deliciously simple.
Nutrition, Allergens & Dietary Notes
Light, Guilt-Free Treat or Sugar Bomb?
You might wonder if 2 ingredient angel food lemon bars are a healthy choice or just another sugary indulgence. The answer? Somewhere pleasantly in the middle.
These lemon bars skip butter, oil, and eggs—making them naturally lower in fat and cholesterol than traditional desserts. On average, a square of 2 ingredient angel food lemon bars contains around 130–160 calories, depending on the brand of cake mix and lemon pie filling you use.
That’s considerably lighter than the buttery, custard-based lemon bars you’ll find in bakeries or traditional cookbooks. Plus, since they don’t include a crust, you’re saving on both prep time and excess carbs.
For an even healthier approach, cut smaller portions or skip extra toppings like glaze and whipped cream. Adding a side of fresh fruit like raspberries or blueberries offers sweetness without processed sugar.
These bars may be sweet, but they’re far from heavy. That’s part of what makes 2 ingredient angel food lemon bars such a great fit for light desserts, summer picnics, or midweek treats when you want something sweet without the guilt.
Gluten, Dairy & Allergen Considerations
Despite their simplicity, not all 2 ingredient angel food lemon bars are automatically allergen-friendly. While the base recipe doesn’t include butter or milk, most angel food cake mixes are not gluten-free. So if you’re baking for someone with celiac disease or gluten intolerance, you’ll need to check labels carefully.
A few brands offer gluten-free angel food cake mix, but results can vary. The classic rise and airy texture of these bars depend on the gluten network, and many gluten-free versions may not hold their structure after baking.
That said, these lemon bars are naturally dairy-free, making them suitable for those with lactose sensitivities. The recipe requires no cream, butter, or milk—just the dry cake mix and the lemon pie filling.
You should also note that while no fresh eggs are used, angel food cake mix does contain dried egg whites. So while these bars might seem egg-free to some, they’re not vegan. Still, for those avoiding whole eggs or managing cholesterol, 2 ingredient angel food lemon bars are a smart compromise.
Always check ingredients when baking for guests with food sensitivities. But overall, 2 ingredient angel food lemon bars offer a surprisingly flexible, light dessert that many diets can enjoy with only minor tweaks.
Conclusion: Why 2 Ingredient Angel Food Lemon Bars Belong in Your Recipe Box
In a world of over-complicated recipes, 2 ingredient angel food lemon bars prove that less really can be more. With just one box of cake mix and a can of lemon pie filling, you get a dessert that’s light, tangy, and always a hit with family, friends, and coworkers alike.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe delivers fast results with minimal effort—and plenty of room to customize. Add fresh berries, dust with powdered sugar, or drizzle with glaze to make it your own.
Whether it’s a relaxed weeknight or a special celebration, 2-ingredient angel food lemon bars are the perfect fit for any event. They store well, freeze even better, and always disappear quickly from the table.
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Frequently Asked Questions About 2 Ingredient Angel Food Lemon Bars
What are the two ingredient lemon angel bars?
2 ingredient angel food lemon bars are an incredibly simple dessert made by mixing a box of one-step angel food cake mix with a can of lemon pie filling. That’s it—no oil, no eggs, no water. You just stir the two together, pour the batter into a baking dish, and bake.
The result is a fluffy, lightly golden bar with a tangy lemon bite and a soft, cake-like texture. They’re perfect for busy days when you need a fast dessert without sacrificing taste or presentation.
What are the two ingredient bars I make every Christmas?
If you’ve made 2 ingredient angel food lemon bars as your annual go-to holiday treat, you’re not alone. These bars are incredibly popular around Christmas thanks to their bright flavor and foolproof prep.
They contrast beautifully with heavier desserts like pies or cookies and can be dressed up with powdered sugar, sugared cranberries, or lemon zest for a festive touch. They also store well and freeze beautifully—making them perfect for make-ahead holiday baking.
What is the secret to angel food cake?
The secret to any angel food-based dessert—including 2 ingredient angel food lemon bars—is air. Angel food cake rises without fat, relying on whipped egg whites (or their powdered equivalent in the mix) for volume and texture.
That’s why you should never use an electric mixer with this recipe. Gentle folding is key to preserving the structure and fluffiness. Also, always choose a one-step cake mix—it contains both the egg whites and flour blend needed to achieve that signature cloud-like finish.
Is it better to bake lemon bars in a glass or metal pan?
When making 2 ingredient angel food lemon bars, either a glass or light-colored metal pan will work—each with different benefits. Glass retains heat and bakes the bars evenly, often resulting in a softer texture. Light metal pans, on the other hand, promote browning and slightly crisper edges.
Avoid dark nonstick pans, which tend to overbrown the bottom. No matter which pan you use, always prep with parchment paper or nonstick spray to ensure easy removal and clean edges.