Lemon Raspberry Bars

Update : March 11, 2026

Why Make This Recipe

Lemon Raspberry Bars are a delightful dessert that brings together the bright flavor of lemons and the sweet-tart taste of raspberries. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are refreshing and satisfying. They are great for summer picnics, family gatherings, or just a sweet treat at home. The combination of tart lemon and fruity raspberry makes every bite a little burst of sunshine!

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 – see step 1 in the recipe below)
3/4 cup lemon juice (180 ml) (freshly squeezed)

Directions

Raspberry Puree: If you are using fresh raspberries, mash them and strain the juice to reduce to 1/4 cup of raspberry puree. If using frozen raspberries, thaw and then puree them in a blender.
Shortbread Base: In a bowl, mix 2 1/4 cups flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon corn starch, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Stir in the melted butter. Press this mixture into the bottom of a greased baking pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Lemon Raspberry Layer: In a large bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups sugar, 1/3 cup corn starch, and 6 large eggs until smooth. Add the reduced raspberry puree, lemon juice, and mix well. Pour this mixture over the baked shortbread base. Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, until the filling is set. Let it cool completely before cutting into bars.

How to Serve Lemon Raspberry Bars

Once cooled and cut, serve the Lemon Raspberry Bars on a plate. You can garnish with fresh raspberries or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a pretty touch. These bars are delicious served chilled or at room temperature.

How to Store Lemon Raspberry Bars

Store the bars in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for about a week. You can also freeze them for up to two months. Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.

Tips to Make Lemon Raspberry Bars

Make sure to use fresh, high-quality lemons for the best flavor.
If using frozen raspberries, thaw and drain excess liquid before pureeing.
Let the bars cool completely in the pan to help them set properly before cutting.

Variation

You can substitute the raspberries with other berries like blueberries or blackberries for a tasty twist! You could also add a layer of whipped cream on top before serving for extra creaminess.

FAQs

1. Can I use bottled lemon juice?
While fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor, you can use bottled lemon juice if that’s what you have.

2. Can I use a different type of flour?
All-purpose flour is the best choice for this recipe. However, you can try using gluten-free flour if needed, but the texture may change.

3. How can I tell if the bars are done baking?
The filling should be set but slightly jiggly in the middle. A toothpick inserted should come out mostly clean.