Name: Quick and Easy Lemon Raspberry Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter (cold); 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice; Zest of 1 lemon; 1 cup fresh raspberries; 1 tsp baking powder; Pinch of salt

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This is the story of how a burst of tart lemon and sweet raspberry turned an ordinary afternoon into an extraordinary dessert adventure. When I first stumbled upon Quick and Easy Lemon Raspberry Squares, little did I know that these delightful squares would become the star of every summer barbecue and family gathering. Imagine biting into a buttery crust that crumbles just right, revealing a luscious layer of zesty lemon filling topped with vibrant, plump raspberries. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, promising sunshine on your taste buds, even if it’s raining cats and dogs outside. For more inspiration, check out this easy dinner ideas recipe.

Now, let me take you back to that fateful day when my friends insisted on bringing their “A-game” to our potluck. With my culinary prowess at risk, I turned to this recipe. Not only did it save me from embarrassment, but it also led to an impromptu dance party when everyone discovered how incredibly delicious these squares were. Trust me, there’s nothing like watching your friends devour dessert while trying to do the cha-cha!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These Quick and Easy Lemon Raspberry Squares are a breeze to prepare, making them perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings
The tangy lemon pairs beautifully with juicy raspberries for a refreshing flavor explosion
Their bright colors make them a stunning addition to any dessert table
Versatile enough for picnics or cozy nights in, they never disappoint!

I once made these lemon raspberry squares for my grandma’s birthday, and her smile lit up the room as she took her first bite.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

All-Purpose Flour: This forms the base of your crust; sifted flour ensures a light texture.
Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens both the crust and filling, so quality matters!
Unsalted Butter: Use cold butter for that flaky crust; it makes all the difference.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides vibrant flavor; bottled just won’t cut it!
Lemon Zest: Adds aromatic oils that enhance the citrus flavor wonderfully—don’t skip this step.
Fresh Raspberries: Choose plump, ripe berries; they should be bursting with flavor and color.
Eggs: They bind everything together, giving that rich texture we love in desserts. For more inspiration, check out this delicious dessert recipes recipe.
Baking Powder: A tiny amount helps give structure and lightness to your filling.
Salt: Just a pinch balances out sweetness beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Prepare Your Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or butter for easy removal later.

Create the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt before cutting in cold butter until crumbly. Press this mixture into the bottom of your prepared dish.

Bake the Crust: Place the crust in your preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes until lightly golden. Let it cool slightly while you whip up the filling.

Make the Filling : Whisk together eggs, sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Fold in those gorgeous fresh raspberries gently so they don’t turn into mush.

Add Filling to Crust : Pour your lemon raspberry mixture over the cooled crust evenly. Bake for another 20-25 minutes until set but still slightly jiggly in the center.

Cool and Serve : Allow your squares to cool completely at room temperature before cutting them into squares. Dust with powdered sugar if you’re feeling fancy!

Now all that’s left is savoring those glorious Quick and Easy Lemon Raspberry Squares! Enjoy each bite as they melt away like sunshine on a warm day.

And there you have it—a simple recipe that brings joy not just through its taste but also through memories shared around the dinner table! So grab those ingredients and get ready to impress everyone with this delightful treat!

You Must Know

Quick and Easy Lemon Raspberry Squares are a delightful treat packed with zesty flavor
Perfect for gatherings, their bright taste is sure to impress
The combination of tart lemon and sweet raspberries creates a refreshing dessert that’s quick to prepare and unforgettable

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven while you prepare the crust. Bake it first, then mix the filling for quick assembly.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out raspberries for blueberries or add a sprinkle of coconut for an exotic twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Enjoy cold or at room temperature.

Chef's Helpful Tips

When making Quick and Easy Lemon Raspberry Squares, ensure your butter is softened for better mixing
Use fresh raspberries for superior flavor, as frozen can be mushy
Always let the squares cool completely before cutting to prevent crumbling and maintain shape

Sharing these lemon raspberry squares with friends during a summer picnic was one of my best cooking moments; their delighted faces made all the effort worthwhile.

FAQ

Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh?

Yes, but fresh raspberries yield better texture and flavor in Quick and Easy Lemon Raspberry Squares.

How long do these squares last in the fridge?

Quick and Easy Lemon Raspberry Squares stay fresh in the fridge for about five days.

Can I make these squares gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend for tasty results without gluten.