Raspberry Meringue Bars are the sweet symphony your taste buds have been waiting for. Imagine a buttery crust cradling a tart raspberry filling, topped with clouds of fluffy meringue that could make even the grumpiest of cats smile. chocolate cupcakes with cream filling The aroma wafts through your kitchen like a sweet hug, promising an explosion of flavor that dances on your tongue with every bite. decadent chocolate puff pastry.
This delightful treat takes me back to lazy summer afternoons when my grandma would spoil us with her legendary desserts. I can still hear her laughter mingling with the sound of whisking as we prepared these bars together. savory tangy vegan burger Perfect for picnics or cozy gatherings, these Raspberry Meringue Bars are bound to become a crowd favorite, leaving everyone asking for seconds and maybe even thirds! For more inspiration, check out this Raspberry cheesecake bites recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Raspberry Meringue Bars are easy to whip up and require minimal ingredients
- The vibrant raspberry filling delivers a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness
- Their stunning appearance makes them a showstopper at any event
- Versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round, they’re perfect for everything from summer picnics to holiday gatherings
I remember the first time I made these; my friends were blown away by how light and fluffy they turned out.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Unsalted Butter: Use room temperature butter for a smooth crust that melts in your mouth.
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Granulated Sugar: Choose fine sugar to help create that perfect melt-in-your-mouth meringue texture.
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All-Purpose Flour: A must-have for the crust; it provides structure without being too heavy.
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Fresh Raspberries: Opt for plump, ripe berries bursting with flavor; frozen works too if fresh aren’t available.
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Egg Whites: Fresh egg whites whip better than older ones, ensuring a light and airy meringue. light and airy mousse.
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Lemon Juice: A splash brightens the raspberry flavor and helps stabilize the meringue.
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Cornstarch: Vital for creating a stable meringue that holds its shape beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. For more inspiration, check out this Butterfinger balls recipe recipe.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper; this will make extracting those delicious bars much easier.
Make the Crust: In a bowl, mix softened butter and granulated sugar until creamy. Stir in flour until just combined; you want it crumbly but cohesive—like good friends at a party!
Bake the Crust: Press the mixture into your lined baking dish evenly. Bake for 15-20 minutes until lightly golden brown on top—don’t wander off too far or you’ll end up with more than just golden!
Prepare the Raspberry Filling: In another bowl, mash fresh raspberries gently until mostly smooth but still chunky. Stir in some sugar and lemon juice; let it sit while you whip those egg whites like they’re running from something.
Whip Up the Meringue: Using an electric mixer, beat egg whites until frothy, then gradually add cornstarch and sugar until stiff peaks form—like clouds ready to rain sweetness down on your day.
Assemble Everything: Pour that luscious raspberry filling over your baked crust evenly. Top with meringue by dolloping it on high like little peaks of joy—don’t worry about perfection here!
Bake Again: Return to the oven for another 10-15 minutes until the meringue is golden brown and set—it should look like cotton candy under sunlight!
Cool Down: Once done, let it cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares—this part is crucial unless you enjoy messy fingers and sad faces.
Serve Up: Cut into squares and serve chilled or at room temperature; trust me, they won’t last long once folks get a taste!
With each step taken in making these Raspberry Meringue Bars, you’re not just baking; you’re creating memories filled with laughter and sweet delight!
You Must Know
- Raspberry meringue bars are a delightful treat that combines tangy berries and sweet meringue
- Ensure your egg whites are at room temperature for the best volume
- The vibrant color and airy texture make these bars a showstopper at any gathering
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating the oven while preparing the crust. Bake it first, then blend the filling, and finally top with meringue for optimal results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap raspberries with strawberries or blueberries for a different flavor. Adding lemon zest enhances freshness, while a sprinkle of almond extract adds depth.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover raspberry meringue bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat lightly in the microwave if desired, but enjoy them chilled for best texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Whip your egg whites until they’re glossy and hold stiff peaks for perfect meringue
- Always fold gently to keep that light texture intact
- Make sure your baking dish is lined properly to avoid sticking on those fabulous layers
The first time I made raspberry meringue bars, my friends devoured them in minutes! Their smiles and compliments made me feel like a culinary rockstar.
FAQ
What is the best way to whip egg whites?
Ensure your mixing bowl is clean and dry; any grease can prevent proper whipping.
Can I make raspberry meringue bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them a day in advance; just store them properly in the fridge.
What type of raspberries should I use?
Fresh raspberries are ideal, but frozen ones work too; just thaw and drain excess liquid.
Raspberry Meringue Bars
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 squares 1x
Description
Raspberry Meringue Bars are a delightful dessert that features a buttery crust, a tangy raspberry filling, and fluffy meringue topping. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are sure to impress your guests with their vibrant flavors and stunning appearance. Whether for summer picnics or cozy gatherings, each bite is a sweet reminder of joyful moments spent with loved ones.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups fresh raspberries (or frozen, thawed)
- 4 egg whites (room temperature)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, cream together butter and sugar, then mix in flour until crumbly.
- Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes until lightly golden.
- For the raspberry filling, mash raspberries and mix in sugar and lemon juice; set aside.
- Whip egg whites until frothy; gradually add cornstarch and sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Pour raspberry filling over the baked crust, then top with meringue.
- Bake again for 10-15 minutes until meringue is golden brown.
- Cool completely before slicing into squares to serve.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Swap raspberries for strawberries or blueberries for different flavors. Adding lemon zest enhances freshness; almond extract adds depth.
