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Lemon Raspberry Bars

Lemon Raspberry Bars feature a buttery shortbread crust topped with a tangy lemon and raspberry filling.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

Raspberry Puree

  • 2 cups raspberries 250 g, fresh or frozen

Shortbread Base

  • cups all-purpose flour 281 g
  • ½ cup granulated sugar 100 g
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter 226 g, melted

Lemon Raspberry Layer

  • cups granulated sugar 300 g
  • cup cornstarch 40 g
  • 6 large eggs
  • ¼ cup reduced raspberry puree 60 ml
  • ¾ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice 180 ml

Instructions
 

Make the Raspberry Puree

  • Add the raspberries to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth.
  • Pour the puree through a fine mesh sieve to remove the seeds if desired.
  • Transfer the strained puree to a small saucepan.
  • Simmer over low-medium heat for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until reduced and thickened.
  • You should have approximately ¼ to ⅓ cup of concentrated puree.
  • Remove from heat and allow to cool.

Prepare the Shortbread Base

  • Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
  • Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
  • Stir in the melted butter until a thick dough forms.
  • Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan and slightly up the edges.
  • Bake for 20–25 minutes until lightly golden and set.
  • Remove from the oven and gently prick the surface with a fork without piercing all the way through.

Make the Lemon Raspberry Layer

  • While the crust bakes, whisk together sugar and cornstarch in a large bowl.
  • Add the eggs and whisk until smooth.
  • Whisk in the cooled reduced raspberry puree.
  • Slowly whisk in the fresh lemon juice.
  • Pour the Lemon Raspberry Bars filling over the warm baked crust.
  • Return to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes until the top is set.
  • Remove from the oven and cool in the pan for at least 1 hour.
  • Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 additional hours.
  • Lift the bars from the pan using the parchment overhang.
  • Slice with a sharp knife, wiping the blade clean between cuts for neat edges.

Notes

  • Meyer lemons can be used for a slightly sweeter citrus flavor.
  • Garnish with fresh raspberries for a beautiful presentation.
  • These bars are excellent for potlucks, picnics, and holiday dessert trays.
  • Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.