Description

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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Ingredients

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)

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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

Notes

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

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes (including crust and filling)
Cuisine: American