Lemon Raspberry Shortbread Bars

These lemon raspberry bars offer a vibrant twist on the classic lemon dessert with their buttery shortbread crust and a sweet tangy layer of lemon raspberry custard The balance of sunny citrus and juicy berry creates a treat that tastes just like summer To me the marbled color of the bars brings instant cheer and they always remind me of days spent sipping raspberry lemonade on the porch

I first tested these when my kids asked for something fruity but not too sweet and now they are a birthday favorite Everyone loves when the pink bars make an appearance at family brunch

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter: Choose high fat European style butter if possible for a rich crust
• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness but is carefully balanced to avoid an overly sweet bar
• All purpose flour: Look for unbleached flour for a tender shortbread
• Cornstarch: Extra insurance for a silky smooth filling
• Large eggs: Use room temperature eggs for even blending
• Fresh lemon juice: Fresh lemons deliver the best tang and zest so avoid bottled juice
• Fresh or frozen raspberries: Pick plump berries for bold flavor or use frozen if out of season
• Powdered sugar: For dusting on top or making a luscious whipped cream topping

Instructions

Prepare the Raspberry Puree:

Blend raspberries in a food processor until smooth then pour through a metal sieve to remove seeds for a silkier texture Transfer the seedless puree to a saucepan and simmer on medium until it reduces by at least half and looks thick and jammy This prevents the bars from being runny

Mix and Bake the Shortbread Base:

Beat softened unsalted butter and sugar until fluffy then blend in the flour until a crumbly dough forms Press the mixture evenly into a parchment lined pan bottom and gently up the sides by about a third of an inch Bake in a preheated oven at three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit for about twenty minutes until lightly golden and set

Prick the Base:

Once the crust comes out of the oven use a fork to gently prick the surface This simple action helps the filling adhere well to the base and avoids separation

Make the Lemon Raspberry Filling:

In a large bowl whisk together eggs sugar lemon juice thickened raspberry puree and cornstarch until perfectly smooth The mixture should look brightly colored and homogenous

Assemble and Bake Again:

Pour the lemon raspberry filling over the warm shortbread base and tilt the pan to spread evenly Return to the oven and bake until the center no longer jiggles when you gently shake the pan This usually takes thirty to thirty five minutes

Cool and Chill:

Let the bars cool on a wire rack until fully at room temperature then refrigerate uncovered for several hours or overnight This helps the filling cut beautifully into neat squares

Finish and Serve:

Dust with powdered sugar or top each slice with whipped cream and a few extra berries if desired Serve chilled for the ultimate refreshing treat

Even just zesting the lemons fills your kitchen with the happiest scent I always keep an extra handful of raspberries aside to snack on while I cut the bars since my best baking memories are with little helpers swiping a berry or two from the pan

Storage Tips

Keep these bars tightly wrapped in the refrigerator and they will stay fresh for up to five days I find the flavor deepens after a day in the fridge making them even tastier If you want to freeze slice the bars first and store between layers of parchment in a freezer safe container for up to two months

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have fresh raspberries frozen ones work just as well and require no thawing before pureeing For a nutty twist try replacing a third of the flour in the crust with finely ground almond flour If you love extra tang a dash of lemon zest in the filling makes the citrus pop even more

Serving Suggestions

A light dusting of powdered sugar is classic for these bars but do not hesitate to add dollops of softly whipped cream or a handful of fresh berries for color They are wonderful as an afternoon snack picnic sweet or as a special brunch offering

Cultural and Seasonal Notes

Lemon bars are a staple of North American potlucks and bake sales and adding raspberries puts a fresh summer spin on a classic Even in the winter these bars brighten up the cold months thanks to frozen berries and always bring a touch of sunshine to the table

Seasonal Adaptations

Use Meyer lemons when available for a perfumed sweeter finish Swap in blackberries if raspberries are out of season Garnish with mint leaves for a fresh summer look

Success Stories

Every time I bake these bars for a get together someone asks for the recipe A neighbor once dropped by just to say they reminded her of her childhood and now we make a tray together every spring

Freezer Meal Conversion

These bars freeze beautifully Simply slice and store in a single layer in the freezer then thaw uncovered in the refrigerator for a firm texture and fresh flavor When you need a last minute dessert or snack these are a lifesaver

Enjoy these bars chilled for a perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors They are sure to brighten anyone’s day

Common Questions About Recipes

→ How do you keep the shortbread crust from getting soggy?

Press the dough slightly up the sides of the pan and partially bake it before adding the filling. This helps seal the edges and prevents the raspberry layer from seeping underneath.

→ Should raspberry seeds be removed from the filling?

It's optional, but straining the raspberry puree removes seeds for a smoother, creamier texture in the custard layer.

→ Why boil down the raspberry puree?

Reducing the puree thickens it and removes extra moisture, helping the custard set properly during baking.

→ Can these bars be made ahead of time?

Yes, they set best when chilled, so making them the night before serving improves both texture and flavor.

→ How should the bars be served?

Once fully set, dust with powdered sugar or add a little whipped cream. Serve chilled for best results.

→ Do the bars need to be refrigerated?

Yes, chilling helps the lemon raspberry layer set and enhances the refreshing flavor and texture.