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easy Lemon Raspberry Bars

Lemon Raspberry Bars feature a buttery shortbread crust topped with a silky lemon raspberry filling.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

Raspberry Puree

  • 2 cups raspberries 250 g, fresh or frozen

Shortbread Base

  • cups all-purpose flour 281 g
  • ½ cup granulated sugar 100 g
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter 226 g, melted

Lemon Raspberry Layer

  • cups granulated sugar 300 g
  • cup cornstarch 40 g
  • 6 large eggs
  • ¼ cup reduced raspberry puree 60 ml
  • ¾ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice 180 ml

Instructions
 

Make the Raspberry Puree

  • Blend the raspberries until smooth.
  • Strain through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds if desired.
  • Transfer the puree to a small saucepan.
  • Simmer over low-medium heat for 15–20 minutes until reduced and thickened.
  • You should have about ¼–⅓ cup puree remaining.
  • Allow to cool completely.

Prepare the Shortbread Base

  • Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
  • Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides.
  • In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
  • Stir in melted butter until a thick dough forms.
  • Press evenly into the prepared pan, creating a slight edge around the perimeter.
  • Bake for 20–25 minutes until lightly golden and set.
  • Remove from oven and gently prick the surface with a fork.

Make the Lemon Raspberry Filling

  • In a large bowl, whisk together sugar and cornstarch.
  • Add eggs and whisk until smooth.
  • Mix in the cooled reduced raspberry puree.
  • Slowly whisk in lemon juice.
  • Pour the mixture over the warm crust.
  • Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the filling appears set.
  • Remove and cool at room temperature for 1 hour.

Chill and Slice

  • Cover the pan and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
  • Lift the Lemon Raspberry Bars out using the parchment paper overhang.
  • Slice using a sharp knife, wiping clean between cuts for neat edges.
  • Serve chilled.

Notes

  • Add lemon zest for extra citrus flavor.
  • Serve with whipped cream or fresh berries.
  • For a stronger raspberry flavor, slightly increase the reduced puree.
  • Store chilled until ready to serve.