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Lemon Raspberry Bars

Delightful bars balancing tart raspberries and buttery shortbread crust with vibrant lemon juice, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Shortbread Base
  • 2 cups raspberries (250 grams) (fresh or frozen) For the reduced raspberry puree.
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (281 grams)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100 grams)
  • 1 tablespoon corn starch
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (226 grams) (melted) Melt slowly to prevent separation.
For the Lemon Raspberry Layer
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar (300 grams)
  • 1/3 cup corn starch (40 grams)
  • 6 large eggs Use room temperature eggs for better mixing.
  • 1/4 cup reduced raspberry puree (60 ml) Prepared from 2 cups raspberries.
  • 3/4 cup lemon juice (180 ml) Freshly squeezed for best flavor.

Method
 

Preparation of Raspberry Puree
  1. In a small saucepan, combine the 2 cups of raspberries with a splash of water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the berries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10-15 minutes.
  2. Strain through a fine sieve to remove the seeds and allow cooling.
Make the Shortbread Base
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 1/4 cups flour, 1/2 cup sugar, 1 tablespoon corn starch, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
  3. Stir in 1 cup melted unsalted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
  4. Press firmly into the bottom of a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
  5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown. Remove and let cool slightly.
Prepare the Lemon Raspberry Layer
  1. In another bowl, whisk together the 1 1/2 cups sugar and 1/3 cup corn starch.
  2. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  3. Stir in the reduced raspberry puree and 3/4 cup lemon juice. Mix until fully combined.
Assemble and Bake
  1. Pour the lemon raspberry mixture over the cooled shortbread base.
  2. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until set and slightly golden on top with firm edges and a slight jiggle in the center.
Cool and Serve
  1. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow to cool completely.
  2. Cut into squares, dust with powdered sugar if desired, and serve.

Notes

Serve bars at room temperature or slightly chilled. Pair with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.