The Art of Ultimate Raspberry Lemon Bars with Perfect Citrus Berry Balance

Perfect Shortbread Foundation Mastery

Master the technique of creating a tender, buttery base that complements citrus filling.

Lemon Curd Excellence

Learn the skill of achieving smooth, tangy lemon curd with perfect consistency.

Berry Integration Perfection

Perfect the method of incorporating fresh raspberries without compromising texture.

Citrus Balance Technique

Master the art of balancing tart lemon with sweet raspberries for perfect harmony.

Cutting and Presentation Strategy

Learn optimal cooling and cutting techniques for beautiful, professional-looking bars.

Citrus Berry Bar Mastery Secrets for Perfect Raspberry Lemon Combination

Lemon Freshness: Use fresh lemon juice and zest for brightest, most vibrant flavor.

Base Texture: Press shortbread base firmly to create sturdy foundation for filling.

Raspberry Quality: Use fresh, firm raspberries that won't break down during baking.

Cooling Patience: Cool completely before cutting for clean, neat bar squares.

Storage Method: Cover tightly and refrigerate to maintain freshness and texture.

Zesting Technique: Use microplane for finest zest that distributes flavor evenly.

Ultimate Raspberry Lemon Bars with Tangy Citrus Curd and Fresh Berry Topping

Name: Ultimate Raspberry Lemon Bars with Tangy Citrus Curd and Fresh Berry Topping
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 16 bars
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the Shortbread Base:; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; For the Lemon Curd Layer:; 4 large eggs; 1 1/3 cups granulated sugar; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice; 2 tablespoons lemon zest; For the Raspberry Component:; 1 1/2 cups fresh raspberries; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; For the Flavor Enhancers:; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 teaspoon almond extract; 1/4 teaspoon lemon extract; For the Creamy Addition:; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons butter, melted; 1 tablespoon powdered sugar; For the Fresh Components:; Additional fresh raspberries; Fresh mint leaves; Extra lemon zest; For the Finishing Touches:

The ultimate raspberry lemon bars featuring bright tangy lemon curd, fresh juicy raspberries, and buttery shortbread base layered together for pure citrus berry bliss. This gourmet dessert masterpiece combines the sharp brightness of fresh lemon with the sweet tartness of ripe raspberries, creating an unforgettable bar cookie experience that elevates classic fruit bars to extraordinary heights perfect for spring gatherings, summer picnics, or any time you crave the perfect balance of citrusy tang and berry sweetness.

Prep Time

20 Minutes

Cook Time

40 Minutes

Total Time

60 Minutes

Chef

JUE

Ingredients

Custard Cream

For the Shortbread Base:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup powdered sugar

1/2 cup cold butter, cubed

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon lemon zest

For the Lemon Curd Layer:

4 large eggs

1 1/3 cups granulated sugar

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1/3 cup fresh lemon juice

2 tablespoons lemon zest

For the Raspberry Component:

1 1/2 cups fresh raspberries

2 tablespoons granulated sugar

1 tablespoon cornstarch

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Flavor Enhancers:

2 tablespoons honey

1 teaspoon almond extract

1/4 teaspoon lemon extract

For the Creamy Addition:

1/4 cup heavy cream

2 tablespoons butter, melted

1 tablespoon powdered sugar

For the Fresh Components:

Additional fresh raspberries

Fresh mint leaves

Extra lemon zest

For the Finishing Touches:

Powdered sugar for dusting

Coarse sugar crystals

Lemon wheel garnishes

For the Perfect Preparation:

Parchment paper

9x13 inch baking pan

Fine mesh strainer

For Special Equipment:

Electric mixer

Microplane zester

Large mixing bowls

Wire cooling rack

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F and line 9x13 inch pan with parchment paper.

Make shortbread base by combining flour, powdered sugar, and salt in bowl.

Add lemon zest to flour mixture for extra citrus flavor throughout.

Cut cold butter into flour mixture until mixture resembles fine crumbs.

Press base mixture firmly and evenly into bottom of prepared pan.

Bake base for 15-18 minutes until lightly golden around edges.

Meanwhile, whisk eggs in large bowl until light and frothy.

Gradually add granulated sugar to eggs, whisking until well combined.

Whisk in flour until smooth with no lumps remaining in mixture.

Add fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and heavy cream to mixture.

Stir in melted butter, honey, and extracts until completely smooth.

Toss raspberries with sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla in separate bowl.

Pour lemon curd mixture evenly over hot shortbread base.

Gently scatter sugared raspberries over lemon curd layer.

Return to oven and bake for 22-25 minutes until center is set.

Check that filling no longer jiggles when pan is gently shaken.

Cool completely in pan on wire rack before cutting into bars.

Refrigerate for at least 2 hours for clean cutting and best texture.

Dust generously with powdered sugar before serving for elegant look.

Cut into 16 neat squares using sharp knife, wiping between cuts.

Garnish each bar with fresh raspberry and mint leaf.

Add extra lemon zest and coarse sugar for additional texture contrast.

Serve chilled or at room temperature based on preference.

Store covered in refrigerator for up to 4 days maximum.

These bars are perfect for spring celebrations and citrus lovers.

Ultimate Raspberry Lemon Bars with Tangy Citrus Curd and Fresh Berry Topping

JUE

Essential Ingredients Selection

Creating Your Masterpiece

The Art of Ultimate Raspberry Lemon Bars with Perfect Citrus Berry Balance

Ultimate Raspberry Lemon Bars with Tangy Citrus Curd and Fresh Berry Topping

Ingredients

Instructions