Lemon Raspberry Bars

Update : March 12, 2026

Why Make This Recipe

Lemon Raspberry Bars are a delightful treat that combines the tangy flavor of lemons with the sweetness of raspberries. They are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a picnic, or just treating yourself at home. These bars offer a balance of flavors that refresh and satisfy your sweet tooth. Plus, they are easy to make, making them a go-to dessert for both beginners and experienced bakers.

How to Make Lemon Raspberry Bars

Ingredients:

2 cups raspberries (250 grams) (fresh or frozen)
2 1/4 cups 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)
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)
3/4 cup lemon juice (180 ml) (freshly squeezed)

Directions:

Raspberry Puree: Start by heating 2 cups of raspberries in a saucepan over medium heat. Mash them gently as they cook until you’ve got a thick puree, then strain to remove the seeds. Reduce it until you have about 1/4 cup of raspberry puree.
Shortbread Base: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix 2 1/4 cups flour, 1/2 cup sugar, 1 tablespoon corn starch, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Add melted butter and mix until crumbly. Press this mixture into the bottom of a lined baking pan and bake for 20 minutes.
Lemon Raspberry Layer: In another bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups sugar, 1/3 cup corn starch, and 6 eggs until smooth. Stir in the reduced raspberry puree and lemon juice. Pour this mixture over the baked crust and return it to the oven for another 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set.

How to Serve Lemon Raspberry Bars

Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. You can serve them plain or dust them with powdered sugar for an extra touch. They are also delicious with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.

How to Store Lemon Raspberry Bars

Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage; just wrap them well in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.

Tips to Make Lemon Raspberry Bars

When making the raspberry puree, be sure to cook the raspberries on low heat to prevent burning.
Using fresh lemons will give you the best flavor in the filling, so opt for freshly squeezed lemon juice.
If you find that your bars are too tart, you can adjust the sugar levels to your taste when mixing the filling.

Variation

Feel free to experiment with other fruits! Blueberries or strawberries can be used in place of raspberries for a different flavor profile that is equally delicious.

FAQs

Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen raspberries work just as well! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before using.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?
You can substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these bars gluten-free.

How can I make the bars less sweet?
To reduce the sweetness, cut back on the sugar in both the crust and the filling. Adjust to your preference!