Lemon Raspberry Bars

These Lemon Raspberry Bars are a delightful twist on classic lemon bars. Bursting with tangy flavors from fresh raspberries and zesty lemons, these bars are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer picnic or a cozy family dessert night. The combination of a buttery shortbread crust and creamy custard filling makes these treats unforgettable!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor Combination: The tartness of lemon paired with the sweetness of raspberries creates a mouthwatering dessert.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these bars in no time.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party, holiday gathering, or just because, these bars will impress guests.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them chilled, at room temperature, or even as a refreshing treat after dinner!
• Great Make-Ahead Option: These bars can be made in advance and stored for later enjoyment.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this recipe, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13 inch baking pan: Ideal size for evenly baked bars that are easy to cut into portions.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk: Ensures that eggs and sugar are thoroughly mixed for the custard filling.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping down the sides of bowls and ensuring no ingredient is left behind.

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 2 cup raspberries (250 grams) (fresh or frozen)
• 2 1/4 cup 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)

For the Filling

• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar (300 grams)
• 1/3 cup corn starch (40 grams)
• 6 large eggs
• 1/4 cup reduced raspberry puree (60 ml) ((reduced from 2 cups raspberries – see step 1 in the recipe below))
• 3/4 cup lemon juice (180 ml) (freshly squeezed)

How to Make Lemon Raspberry Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Raspberry Puree

Begin by cooking down the raspberries to create a rich raspberry puree. Place 2 cups of raspberries in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook until they break down and thicken slightly. Strain through a fine mesh sieve to remove seeds, then set aside.

Step 2: Make the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, corn starch, and salt. Pour in melted butter and stir until crumbly. Press this mixture into the bottom of your prepared baking pan. Bake for about 15 minutes or until lightly golden.

Step 3: Prepare the Custard Filling

In another bowl, whisk together sugar and corn starch. Add eggs one at a time while mixing well. Stir in fresh lemon juice and reduced raspberry puree until fully combined.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Pour the custard filling over the baked crust. Bake for an additional 30 minutes or until set in the center. Let cool completely before slicing into squares.

With these steps, you’ll have delicious Lemon Raspberry Bars ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Lemon Raspberry Bars

Lemon raspberry bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening, these bars are sure to impress.

With Fresh Berries

• Top each lemon raspberry bar with a handful of fresh raspberries for a burst of flavor and color.

Whipped Cream

• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream on the side for added richness and creaminess that complements the tangy lemon filling.

Ice Cream

• Pair these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create a refreshing dessert experience, perfect for hot summer days.

Lemon Zest Garnish

• Sprinkle some fresh lemon zest on top just before serving to enhance the citrus aroma and visual appeal.

Mint Leaves

• Add a few fresh mint leaves as a garnish to introduce an aromatic element and brighten up the presentation.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Lemon Raspberry Bars

To achieve the best lemon raspberry bars, follow these essential tips that will elevate your baking game.

• Chill before cutting: Allow the bars to cool completely in the fridge for at least two hours before slicing. This helps the custard set properly and makes cutting easier.

• Use fresh lemons: For optimal flavor, always use freshly squeezed lemon juice instead of bottled juice. Fresh lemons provide a brighter taste.

• Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter dessert, feel free to add more sugar to the custard mixture. Taste it before baking!

• Store correctly: Keep leftover lemon raspberry bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh for up to five days.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Raspberry Bars

These lemon raspberry bars pair wonderfully with several side dishes that enhance their sweet-tart flavor. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the tartness of the bars beautifully.

2. Cheese Platter
   A selection of soft cheeses, like goat cheese or mascarpone, adds creamy richness that contrasts nicely with the tangy bars.

3. Chocolate Soufflé
   The lightness and deep chocolate flavor of soufflé complement the fruity notes without overpowering them.

4. Pistachio Crumble
   A crunchy pistachio crumble sprinkled over the top brings a nutty note and texture contrast to each bite.

5. Lemon Sorbet
   Serve alongside lemon sorbet for an extra citrus kick that refreshes the palate between bites.

6. Coconut Macaroons
   These sweet coconut treats provide chewy texture and serve as a delightful contrast to the smooth custard of the bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Lemon Raspberry Bars, small errors can lead to disappointing results. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the crust chilling: Not chilling the crust before baking can result in a soggy bottom. Always chill your shortbread crust for at least 30 minutes.
• Overmixing the custard: Overmixing can create air bubbles, causing cracks in your bars. Mix just until combined for a smooth finish.
• Using bottled lemon juice: Bottled juice lacks freshness and flavor. Always opt for freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best taste.
• Ignoring the raspberry reduction: Failing to reduce the raspberries before adding them can make your custard too watery. Take the time to make a concentrated raspberry puree.
• Not letting bars cool completely: Cutting into warm bars can cause them to fall apart. Be patient and let them cool completely before slicing.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Lemon Raspberry Bars in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Lemon Raspberry Bars

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Lemon Raspberry Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a bar in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Lemon Raspberry Bars.

What are Lemon Raspberry Bars?

Lemon Raspberry Bars are a delightful dessert featuring a buttery shortbread crust topped with tangy lemon custard and fresh raspberries.

Can I use frozen raspberries for Lemon Raspberry Bars?

Yes, you can use frozen raspberries! Just ensure they are thawed and well-drained before adding them to your mixture.

How do I know when my Lemon Raspberry Bars are done?

The bars should be set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center. They will firm up as they cool.

Can I customize my Lemon Raspberry Bars?

Absolutely! You can add other berries or even switch out lemons for limes for a different flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

Lemon Raspberry Bars offer a perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors, making them an irresistible treat. They’re versatile enough to suit various occasions, whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or enjoying a cozy dessert night. Feel free to customize with different fruits or citrus juices based on your preference!