Raspberry Lemon Tart Bars
Raspberry Lemon Tart Bars combine tangy lemon brightness with the sweetness of fresh raspberries on a tender, buttery crust. This refreshing and indulgent dessert features a crisp base with a smooth, zesty filling, perfect for any occasion from family gatherings to simple snacks.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free optional (see variations)
For the Crust
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the Lemon Filling
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2–3 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
For Topping
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Prepare the Crust: Combine all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and softened unsalted butter in a mixing bowl. Use your hands or a pastry cutter to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture forms a crumbly dough. Press this dough evenly into a greased 9×9-inch or 8×8-inch baking pan to form the base.
- Bake the Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the crust for about 15 minutes, or until it turns light golden brown. This step ensures a firm foundation that won’t get soggy once the filling is added.
- Mix the Lemon Filling: While the crust is baking, whisk together fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, granulated sugar, eggs, and 2 tablespoons flour in a bowl until smooth and creamy. This mixture forms the bright and tangy filling.
- Add Raspberries and Pour Filling: Evenly scatter fresh raspberries over the baked crust. Carefully pour the lemon filling on top, spreading smoothly around the berries to ensure even baking.
- Bake the Tart Bars: Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly firm to the touch. Remove from oven and let cool completely before slicing into bars.
Notes
- Use fresh lemons for the best bright and zesty flavor; bottled lemon juice lacks freshness.
- Don’t overmix the crust dough; keep butter cold and handle gently to maintain a tender texture.
- Chill the bars completely or refrigerate before slicing to achieve clean edges.
- Adjust baking time carefully to ensure filling sets but stays creamy without cracking.
- Use fresh raspberries to avoid excess moisture that can make the crust soggy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 70 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: raspberry lemon tart bars, lemon bars, raspberry dessert, tart bars, citrus dessert, summer dessert