Tangy Raspberry Lemon Bars

If you’re craving a dessert that’s sweet, tart, and bursting with fruity flavor, these Tangy Raspberry Lemon Bars are a must-try! With a buttery shortbread crust, zesty lemon filling, and a swirl of vibrant raspberries, these bars are as beautiful as they are delicious. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or an afternoon pick-me-up, they offer the perfect balance of sweet and tangy in every bite.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Bright & Bold Flavors – Zesty lemon meets juicy raspberry
Perfectly Balanced – Sweet, tart, and buttery in every bite
Gorgeous Presentation – Swirled raspberry creates a stunning finish
Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and steps
Ideal for Sharing – Great for gatherings, gifting, or just treating yourself

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Shortbread Crust:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
¼ tsp salt

For the Lemon Raspberry Filling:
1½ cups granulated sugar
¼ cup all-purpose flour
4 large eggs
⅔ cup fresh lemon juice (about 3–4 lemons)
1 tbsp lemon zest
½ cup raspberry puree or raspberry preserves (strained if desired)
Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Tools You’ll Need
9×13-inch baking pan
Parchment paper
Mixing bowls
Whisk or electric mixer
Citrus zester and juicer
Fine mesh sieve (for raspberry puree)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal

Step 2: Make the Shortbread Crust
In a bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy
Add flour and salt, mixing until the dough comes together
Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan
Bake for 18–20 minutes until lightly golden, then remove and set aside

Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a clean bowl, whisk together sugar and flour
Add eggs, lemon juice, and zest, whisking until smooth and combined
Pour the lemon filling over the warm crust

Step 4: Add Raspberry Swirl
Drop small spoonfuls of raspberry puree or preserves evenly over the lemon filling
Use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the raspberry through the lemon mixture

Step 5: Bake
Return pan to the oven and bake for 22–25 minutes, or until the center is set and no longer jiggles
Cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours

Step 6: Slice and Serve
Lift bars out using parchment paper
Dust with powdered sugar and slice into squares or rectangles
Serve chilled or at room temperature

Tips for Best Results
Use Fresh Lemons – For the best flavor and brightness
Don’t Overbake – The center should just be set to maintain a smooth texture
Strain Raspberry Puree – For a smooth, seedless swirl
Chill Before Slicing – Helps bars firm up and cut neatly
Decorate Before Serving – Powdered sugar looks best just before serving

Serving Suggestions
With Whipped Cream – Adds a creamy balance to the tartness
Alongside Fresh Berries – Enhance the fruity flair
As Part of a Dessert Platter – Their color and flavor make them a standout
Paired with Iced Tea – Especially raspberry or lemon-flavored

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days
Freeze individual bars for up to 2 months—layer with parchment between

Reheating:
Best served chilled or room temp
If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before serving

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen raspberries?
Yes, thaw and strain before using to make puree or swirl

What’s the best way to get smooth lemon filling?
Whisk thoroughly and strain the mixture before pouring if needed

Can I use raspberry jam instead of puree?
Yes! Just thin slightly with lemon juice or warm water if it’s too thick

Is the crust supposed to be firm?
Yes—it provides a sturdy base for the soft filling

Final Thoughts
These Tangy Raspberry Lemon Bars are the ultimate citrus-lovers dessert—bright, fruity, and totally irresistible. With their vibrant swirl, buttery crust, and tangy-sweet filling, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser whether served at a special gathering or just for your own indulgence.

Try them today and bring a burst of sunshine to your dessert table. Don’t forget to snap a photo and share your delicious results!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes (including crust and filling)
Chilling Time: 2 hours
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 280 | Protein: 3g | Carbohydrates: 35g | Fat: 14g | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 24g | Sodium: 90mg

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