Sweet-tart berry dessert bars (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ For the Crust
01 -
2 tbsp buttermilk
02 -
2 large egg yolks
03 -
3/4 tsp vanilla extract
04 -
2 ½ cups flour
05 -
1 ⅓ cups powdered sugar
06 -
Pinch of salt
07 -
1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
→ For the Filling
08 -
1 ⅓ cups raspberries
09 -
1 ¾ cups sugar, divided
10 -
4 large eggs, lightly whisked
11 -
3 tbsp flour
12 -
1 tsp lemon zest
13 -
2/3 cup lemon juice
# Instructions:
01 -
In a small bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg yolks, and vanilla. Set aside. In a food processor, pulse the flour, powdered sugar, and salt to combine. Add the cold butter and pulse until the mixture resembles pea-sized crumbs. While the processor is running, pour in the wet ingredients and mix until the dough starts coming together.
02 -
Transfer the dough onto plastic wrap, form into a disc, and wrap tightly. Refrigerate for 1 hour or freeze for 15-20 minutes.
03 -
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Press the chilled dough into a greased 8×8" pan, covering the bottom and slightly up the sides. Wrap the pan in plastic wrap and freeze for 20 minutes.
04 -
Remove the wrap and bake for 20-25 minutes until set but not golden. Lower oven temperature to 325°F (163°C).
05 -
In a small bowl, gently mix the raspberries with 1/4 cup sugar. Let sit while making the filling. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, remaining 1 ½ cups sugar, flour, and lemon zest until pale yellow. Stir in the lemon juice until combined.
06 -
Scatter the raspberries over the warm crust. Pour any juices from the raspberries into the lemon filling, whisk again, then pour over the crust. Bake at 325°F for 20-30 minutes, until the center is set and no longer jiggles.
07 -
Let cool completely before slicing. Serve immediately or wrap and refrigerate overnight for best flavor.
# Notes:
01 -
To make the crust easier to work with, chill it before rolling out or pressing it into the pan
02 -
If you prefer, you can strain the lemon filling before baking to remove any pulp or seeds for a smoother texture
03 -
For extra flavor, garnish the bars with additional fresh raspberries and a dusting of powdered sugar just before serving
04 -
These bars taste even better after being refrigerated overnight, as the flavors have time to develop