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Lemon Raspberry Bars

Zesty Lemon Raspberry Bars That Brighten Up Any Day

These Lemon Raspberry Bars combine zesty lemon and sweet raspberries in a buttery crust, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Cooling Time 3 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 190

Ingredients
  

For the Raspberry Filling
  • 2 cups Fresh Raspberries Fresh are ideal; frozen can be used with adjustments.
  • 1 cup Granulated Sugar Try coconut sugar for a healthier twist.
  • 1/4 cup Lemon Juice Freshly squeezed for best flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Cornstarch Arrowroot powder can be used as a gluten-free alternative.
For the Shortbread Crust
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Can replace with cold coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
  • 1 cup All-Purpose Flour Gluten-free flour works as a substitute.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Salt Kosher salt is a good alternative.
  • 1 large Egg Yolk Using a whole egg may alter the texture.
For the Lemon Filling
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Zest Use a microplane for finely zested perfection.
  • 1 cup Powdered Sugar Optional for dusting.

Equipment

  • small saucepan
  • food processor
  • Mixing Bowl
  • 8x8-inch baking pan
  • Parchment Paper

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a small saucepan, combine fresh raspberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium-low heat for about 5–7 minutes until the berries break down and thicken slightly. Mix cornstarch with a splash of water, then add it to the raspberry mix, stirring until thickened. Remove from heat and let cool.
  2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Blend flour, sugar, and salt in a food processor. Add chilled butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Whisk an egg yolk with a tablespoon of water and mix into the flour mixture until just combined. Press crust into the pan and bake for 15–20 minutes until lightly golden.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, egg yolks, lemon zest, lemon juice, and flour until smooth. Once the crust has cooled slightly, pour the lemon mixture over it, spreading evenly.
  4. Dollop the cooled raspberry filling over the lemon layer. Swirl the raspberry through the lemon filling for a marbled effect, avoiding disturbing the crust.
  5. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes until edges are set and center has a slight jiggle. Avoid overbaking to prevent dryness.
  6. Cool the bars at room temperature for a couple of hours. Refrigerate until fully cool, about 2–3 hours. Dust with powdered sugar, cut into squares, and serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 1barCalories: 190kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 2gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2.5gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 90mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

For cleaner cuts, use a sharp knife and wipe it between cuts. Always use fresh ingredients for best flavor, and allow the bars to chill thoroughly before serving.

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