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As the temperatures rise and the sun shines brighter, the craving for cool, refreshing desserts becomes more pronounced. Frozen desserts, in particular, have surged in popularity during the warmer months, offering a delightful way to beat the heat. Among the myriad of options available, Zesty Frozen Lemon Raspberry Bars stand out as a quintessential summer treat. These bars combine the invigorating tang of citrus with the natural sweetness of fresh raspberries, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that is both refreshing and indulgent.

Frozen Lemon Raspberry Bars

Beat the summer heat with Zesty Frozen Lemon Raspberry Bars, a refreshing and easy-to-make dessert that combines the tangy zing of fresh lemons with the sweetness of raspberries. Perfect for barbecues and picnics, these bars offer a delightful balance of flavors and are made with simple ingredients. Prepare them in advance and store them in the freezer for a cool treat anytime. Enjoy a guilt-free indulgence packed with vitamins and antioxidants!
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Ingredients
  

For the crust:

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

¼ cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the lemon raspberry filling:

1 cup fresh raspberries (or frozen raspberries, thawed)

1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (approximately 4-6 lemons)

Zest from 2 lemons

1 cup granulated sugar

4 large eggs

½ cup heavy cream

½ teaspoon salt

For garnish (optional):

Fresh raspberries

Thin slices of lemon

Whipped cream

Instructions
 

Prepare the Crust:

    - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

      - In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture looks like wet sand.

        - Press this crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9x9-inch baking dish, using the back of a measuring cup or your fingers to compact it firmly.

          - Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden. Allow it to cool completely while you prepare the filling.

            Make the Filling:

              - In a blender or food processor, add the fresh raspberries and blend until smooth. Strain the raspberry puree through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl to remove the seeds, then set aside.

                - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, granulated sugar, and salt until the sugar has fully dissolved.

                  - Add the eggs to the mixture one at a time, ensuring to mix thoroughly after each addition for a smooth consistency.

                    - Gently fold in the raspberry puree and heavy cream, mixing until everything is well combined.

                      Bake the Bars:

                        - Pour the prepared lemon raspberry filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.

                          - Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes. The filling should be set with a slight jiggle in the center when you lightly shake the pan.

                            - After baking, remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature.

                              Freeze the Bars:

                                - Once cooled, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the freezer. Allow it to freeze for at least 4 hours, or until it is thoroughly firm.

                                  - For easy slicing, remove from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before cutting into squares.

                                    Serve:

                                      - Serve the chilled bars garnished with extra fresh raspberries, thin slices of lemon, and optional dollops of whipped cream for a delightful finish.

                                        Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 30 minutes | 6 hours | 16 bars