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These lemon raspberry bars with graham cracker crust are the first recipe we make every spring. With sweet, tangy, lemon filling and plump raspberries over a crumbly graham cracker crust it’s the perfect raspberry lemon custard dessert and neighbors will be begging you for the recipe!
The best part? This is an easy lemon raspberry bar recipe made with simple ingredients with no complicated lemon curd required. Just mix, bake, chill, and enjoy!
They’re easy enough for little hands to help press the crust and sprinkle in the fruit, and fancy enough to impress at any gathering. No fuss, no special tools, just simple ingredients and a big, happy flavor the whole family will love. It is the number one most requested dessert by all of our friends and family!
It is one of my favorite berry desserts. Well, one that’s not pie. Our berries and cream cheesecake bars and creamy strawberry cheesecake bars are a close second and third, but these raspberry lemon bars are in the top spot!
Why You’ll Love These Lemon Raspberry Bars
- Bright, fresh lemon flavor with sweet raspberries
- Creamy, custard-like filling (no curd needed!)
- Buttery graham cracker crust
- Easy to make with simple ingredients
- Perfect for spring, summer, and entertaining
Ingredients for Lemon Raspberry Bars
When you bite into these lemon raspberry custard bars, it’s all creamy, thick and rich, then you hit the berries and they add a bright, fresh pop in your mouth. Continuing on you finally hit the crust and, oh. my. sweet. deliciousness. It’s all thick and buttery. Gosh, it’s so good. Here is everything you’ll need:
For the Crust:
- Graham Cracker Crumbs: Create a buttery, slightly sweet base that pairs perfectly with the tangy filling.
- Salted Butter: Binds the crust together and adds rich flavor.
- Sugar: Adds just a touch of sweetness to balance the crust.
- Lemon Zest: Brightens the crust with a hint of citrus flavor. This is my favorite!
For the Filling:
- Egg Yolks: Give the filling its rich, creamy, custard-like texture.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds sweetness and helps create that smooth, thick consistency.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Provides the signature tangy lemon flavor—fresh is key here!
- Lemon Zest: Boosts the citrus flavor and adds brightness.
- Fresh Raspberries: Add juicy bursts of sweetness and a beautiful pop of color.
How to Make Lemon Raspberry Bars
These lemon bars with raspberries come together quickly with just a few simple steps, no complicated techniques required.
- Prep: Preheat the oven to 350℉ and spray a 9×13″ with cooking spray.
- Make the Graham Cracker Crust: Mix crust ingredients and press into pan. Bake for 10 minutes and cool.
- Make the Lemon Filling: Whisk egg yolks and condensed milk until smooth. Stir in lemon juice and zest until slightly thickened. Gently fold in the raspberries.
- Bake: Pour over the crust and bake for 15 minutes, until just set.
- Cool: Cool, then chill at least 1 hour before slicing.
Tips for the Best Lemon Raspberry Bars
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor
- Zest before juicing (so much easier!)
- Fold raspberries gently to keep them whole
- Don’t overbake—the center should still have a slight jiggle
- Chill completely for clean slices
Variations
Not a raspberry fan? Swap them for blueberries, blackberries, or even sliced strawberries.
Use a shortbread crust instead of a graham cracker crust. The crust on our cheesecake bars is my favorite!
Add a dusting of powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.
FAQs
Yes, but don’t thaw them first or they’ll bleed into the batter.
They may need more chill time or were slightly underbaked.
Absolutely! These are even better the next day!
How to Store Lemon Bars
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Can You Freeze Lemon Raspberry Bars?
Yes! Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a container. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
These lemon raspberry bars are everything you want in a summer dessert. They are bright, creamy, and packed with fresh flavor. Not only are they delicious, but they are so quick and easy to make! I love making a batch of these bars and having friends over for a summer evening in the backyard.Â
More BAR DESSERTS to Try:
Watch This Video Tutorial…
