Raspberry Lemon Bars

Experience the delightful tang of Raspberry Lemon Bars, a dessert that perfectly balances the tartness of lemon with the sweetness of raspberries. Featuring a buttery shortbread crust topped with a vibrant lemon-raspberry filling and a dusting of powdered sugar, these bars are a colorful and refreshing treat. Ideal for spring and summer gatherings, or as a bright pick-me-up during the colder months, Raspberry Lemon Bars are sure to become a cherished recipe in your dessert repertoire.

Ingredients:

• For the crust:
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• For the filling:
• 1 cup fresh raspberries
• 3 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1/2 cup lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
2. Begin with the crust by combining 1 cup flour and 1/4 cup granulated sugar in a mixing bowl. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
3. While the crust is baking, prepare the filling. Puree the raspberries in a blender until smooth. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds, discarding solids.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and 1/3 cup flour until smooth. Stir in the raspberry puree.
5. Pour the filling over the hot crust and return to the oven. Bake for an additional 22-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and no longer wiggles when shaken.
6. Cool completely in the pan set on a wire rack. Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhangs to lift the bars from the pan. Cut into squares and dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Raspberry Lemon Bars offer a stunning contrast of flavors and textures, from the crisp shortbread base to the soft, tangy filling. They're a visually appealing treat that's sure to brighten any dessert table.