Mango Lemon Bars Recipe (2024)

September 21, 2018 by Jocelyn (Grandbaby Cakes) · Updated January 24, 2024

This Mango Lemon Bars Recipe transforms the classic lemon bar with the addition of fresh mango resulting in a sweet, creamy filling topped buttery shortbread crust.

We are finally in the midst of the fall season. Quilted blankets, hot cider and oversizedsweaters help ease the transition from summer days to chilly breezes. Baking pans findtheir way out of the kitchen cupboards as we dust off our favorite fall dessert recipes(sweet potato coffee cake or caramel apple cheesecake). Whether we’re making cinnamon rollsor doughy bread, autumn’s beautiful flavors and aromas fill our homes and provide suchcomfort. Occasionally, while cozy on the couch with warm tea, I find myself cravingsomething sweet, light and fruity that doesn’t require too much work. For those moments,I save up a few key recipes that satisfy my craving without compromising freshness orquality. A big favorite of mine is my Mango Lemon Bars recipe.

When Are Mangoes In Season?

I have a mind blowing fact for you all. More than 80 percent of Americans believe that themango is out of season after summer, but the truth is that this delicious, versatile fruitis available fresh year round thanks to the six varieties that have staggered growingseasons.

I’ll be the first to admit that I was one of the 80 percent for the longest time.I mean, who knew?! But now that I’ve shared this fact with you the possibilities areendless. That means you need to fully start incorporating mango into your fall bakinglike I currently am. Take advantage of its incredible flavor and bake something unexpectedlike these mango flavored lemon bars.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• Salted Butter: Bringing the rich, creamy foundation to our crust, make sure it’s room temperature for that perfect blend.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetness, here we come!
• All-Purpose Flour: Gives it structure and that perfect crumbly texture.

For the Filling:

• Diced Mango: Mango pieces to add a burst of sweetness and exotic vibes.
• Fresh Lime Juice: This brightens up the flavors and balancing the sweetness.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens our filling perfectly.
• All-Purpose Flour: Here’s our thickening agent, ensuring our filling sets to perfection.
• Large Eggs: They bring it all together, creating a smooth, custardy texture in our filling.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: This is where we get that tangy, mouthwatering kick that makes lemon bars so iconic.
• Pure Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla to round out the flavors
• Confectioner’s Sugar for Garnish: A dusting of powdered sugar for that extra bit of sweetness and a picture-perfect finish.

How to Make Lemon Bars with Mango

Any dessert made in under an hour is a Godsend in my book. With all the playdates, family dinners and holidays that always seem to come around, I’m in need of easy recipes. Mango Lemon Bars are sweet, sour, buttery and best of all, easy to make.

Shall we break it down by layer? I think so.

Shortbread Crust

The shortbread crust is buttery and crumbly, lending itself perfectly to the custardy topping packed with fresh mango flavor.
TIP: If you’re looking for a shortcut for your shortbread (haha sorry, I just had to), use a package of your favorite store-bought shortbread cookies! Place the cookies in a large ziploc container and crush ‘em up. Combine 2 cups crushed cookies and ¾ cup of butter. Then, continue to follow the instructions below! They’ve got a cool vibe like my Lemon Brownies with that crisp bottom and creamy topping.

Mango Lemon Custard

I love the texture of a good custard; it’s smooth, creamy and absolutely delightful! Our fruity, acidic additions balance out the sugars and make for a unique flavor combination.

Visions and scents of tropical islands are right at your fingertips when you make a batch of this thick, tasty custard.

Confectioners Sugar

There’s no other way to top off a decadently delicious dessert than to douse it in powdered sugar. With every bite sugar coats the lips and makes for a complete dessert experience!

Leftover Storage

Since Mango Lemon Bars are essentially a custard, they should be refrigerated if not consumed within the first day. Store leftover bars in an air-tight container for up to 4 days.

If tightly wrapped in plastic freezer wrap or aluminum foil, these bars can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Before serving, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw in the fridge overnight.

PRO TIP: I love making a batch of these in the Summertime and enjoying them frozen. They’re so refreshing!

More Mango Recipes

For more mango recipes, check these out:

• For the most incredible punch, try this Mango Citrus Fruit Punch.
• For the ultimate salmon burger, try this Mango Jerk Salmon Burgers.
• And for additional jerk flavor, these Mango Jerk Wings are calling your name!

*Did you make this recipe? Please give it a star rating and leave comments below!*