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Raspberry Lemon Bars

A refreshing dessert that combines the tangy flavor of fresh raspberries and zesty lemons atop a buttery, crumbly crust.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 24 bars
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Baking, Summer
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

For the Raspberry Sauce
  • 12 ounces fresh or frozen unthawed raspberries Organic raspberries are preferred.
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar For sweetening the raspberry mixture.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice Freshly squeezed for bright flavor.
For the Crust
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened At room temperature for even blending.
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour Regular flour or gluten-free blend.
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar Adds sweetness to the crust.
For the Filling
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar For the sweet-tart filling.
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour To thicken the filling.
  • 4 large eggs Fresh for a rich filling.
  • 2/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice Use fresh for enhanced flavor.
  • Confectioners' sugar for dusting For beautiful finishing touch.

Method
 

Create the Raspberry Sauce
  1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the raspberries, 1/4 cup sugar, and 2 tablespoons lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring often. Once boiling, let it simmer for 8-10 minutes or until it thickens—stir frequently to avoid burning. Once thickened, pour the mixture into a fine-mesh strainer to remove the seeds, and set aside to cool completely.
Prep the Oven
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Make the Crust
  1. In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup butter, 2 cups flour, and 1/2 cup sugar. Using a pastry cutter, fork, or your hands, blend the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden and fragrant.
Prepare the Filling
  1. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups sugar, 1/4 cup flour, eggs, 2/3 cup lemon juice, and the cooled raspberry sauce until smooth and well combined.
Assemble and Bake
  1. Once the crust is out of the oven, pour the raspberry filling over it. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the filling is just set.
Cool and Chill
  1. Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature; then chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before cutting them into squares.
Serve with Flair
  1. When ready to serve, dust lightly with confectioners' sugar.

Notes

Use parchment paper to line your baking dish for easier bar removal. These bars can last up to a week in an airtight container in the refrigerator and can be frozen for up to three months.