Raspberry Lemon Blondies

Introduction

These Raspberry Lemon Blondies blondies are a perfect blend of tart lemon, sweet raspberries, and a rich, buttery base that melts in your mouth. Bursting with fresh fruit flavor, they strike the perfect balance between citrusy brightness and warm vanilla richness, with a hint of almond to round it all out. The slightly crisp edges give way to a soft, fudgy center, making each bite an irresistible treat.

I still remember the first time I made these for a summer picnic—the combination of zesty lemon and juicy raspberries was an instant hit! Their vibrant color and refreshing flavor make them stand out on any dessert table. Plus, they’re easy to whip up, requiring just a handful of simple ingredients.

Whether you’re serving them with afternoon tea, bringing them to a gathering, or simply treating yourself to something sweet, these blondies are guaranteed to impress. Their chewy texture and bright, fruity taste make them a dessert you’ll want to make again and again!

Perfect for:

• Spring and summer gatherings
• Afternoon tea or coffee
• Bake sales and potlucks
• Gift-giving
• Lemon and berry lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Raspberry Lemon Blondies will become your new go-to dessert:

• Bright and Fruity Flavor: The combination of fresh raspberries and zesty lemon creates a refreshing, tangy-sweet contrast.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: These blondies have a fudgy, buttery consistency that melts in your mouth.
• Easy to Make: A simple, one-bowl batter makes this an easy dessert to whip up.
• Beautiful and Vibrant: The natural pink hues from the raspberries and lemon zest make these blondies as pretty as they are delicious.
• Versatile and Customizable: You can swap in different berries or add nuts for extra texture.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
• Servings: 16 blondies
• Calories per serving: Approximately 180-200 calories
• Key Nutrients: Carbs: 26g, Fat: 9g, Protein: 2g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Raspberry Lemon Blondies:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
• 2 tablespoons lemon zest (about 2 lemons)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup fresh raspberries
• ½ cup white chocolate chips (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Lemon Zest and Juice: Fresh lemon zest gives these blondies a bright citrus flavor, while the juice adds tartness and moisture.
• Raspberries: Fresh raspberries provide bursts of juicy sweetness throughout each bite.
• Butter: Melted butter ensures a rich, chewy texture in these blondies.
• White Chocolate Chips: These add a creamy sweetness that complements the tart raspberries.
• Almond Extract: A hint of almond enhances the fruit flavors beautifully, but it can be omitted if preferred.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Raspberry Lemon Blondies:

Prepare the Blondie Batter:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
2. Melt the Butter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
3. Add the Wet Ingredients: Whisk in the eggs, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), lemon zest, and lemon juice until well combined.
4. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. Add the Raspberries and Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the raspberries and white chocolate chips, being careful not to crush the berries too much.

Bake the Blondies:

7. Transfer to the Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
8. Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
9. Cool: Let the blondies cool completely in the pan before slicing. This helps them set and makes cutting easier.

How to Serve Raspberry Lemon Blondies

Raspberry Lemon Blondies can be served in many delicious ways:

• With a Dusting of Powdered Sugar: Lightly sprinkle powdered sugar over the blondies for a simple yet elegant touch.
• With a Lemon Glaze: Drizzle a quick glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice over the top for extra sweetness.
• With Ice Cream: Serve warm blondies with a scoop of vanilla or lemon ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• With Fresh Berries: Garnish with extra raspberries and lemon slices for a beautiful presentation.
• As a Gift: Package these blondies in a decorative box or tin to give as a homemade gift.
• Paired with Ice Cream – Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla, lemon, or raspberry sorbet for a refreshing treat.
• With a Lemon Glaze – Drizzle a simple lemon glaze (powdered sugar + lemon juice) over the top for extra citrusy sweetness.
• With Fresh Berries – Garnish with extra raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries for a fresh and colorful presentation.
• As a Dessert Bar Platter – Cut into bite-sized squares and arrange on a platter alongside brownies and cookies for a dessert spread.

Additional Tips for Raspberry Lemon Blondies

Here are some tips to ensure your Raspberry Lemon Blondies turn out perfectly:

• Use Fresh Raspberries: Frozen raspberries can be used, but they may release more moisture, so lightly coat them in flour before adding to the batter.
• Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter just until combined to keep the blondies soft and tender.
• Line the Pan with Parchment Paper: This makes it easier to remove the blondies for clean slicing.
• Cool Before Cutting: Letting the blondies cool completely prevents them from crumbling when sliced.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a more tart blondie, reduce the sugar slightly or add an extra tablespoon of lemon juice.
• Try Different Mix-ins: Swap white chocolate chips for chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or even coconut flakes for a unique twist.
• Check for Doneness: The edges should be golden brown, but the center should still look slightly soft—this ensures a chewy texture.

Recipe Variations for Raspberry Lemon Blondies

Here are 10 variations you can try for Raspberry Lemon Blondies:

• Blueberry Lemon Blondies: Swap raspberries for blueberries for a different berry twist.
• Raspberry Almond Blondies: Add ½ cup of sliced almonds for extra crunch.
• Lemon Poppy Seed Blondies: Mix in 1 tablespoon of poppy seeds for a classic flavor pairing.
• Glazed Raspberry Lemon Blondies: Drizzle a lemon glaze over the cooled blondies for extra sweetness.
• White Chocolate Raspberry Blondies: Increase the white chocolate chips for a creamier flavor.
• Strawberry Lemon Blondies: Use diced strawberries instead of raspberries for a milder berry flavor.
• Raspberry Coconut Blondies: Add shredded coconut for a tropical touch.
• Dairy-Free Blondies: Use melted coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
• Gluten-Free Raspberry Lemon Blondies: Substitute a gluten-free flour blend to make these bars gluten-free.
• Extra Tangy Blondies: Add an extra tablespoon of lemon zest for a stronger lemon flavor.

Freezing and Storage for Raspberry Lemon Blondies

• Freezing: These blondies freeze well. Slice them into squares, place them in a single layer in an airtight container, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Storage: Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Special Equipment for Raspberry Lemon Blondies

Here are some helpful tools for making Raspberry Lemon Blondies:

• Mixing Bowls: For combining wet and dry ingredients separately.
• Whisk and Spatula: A whisk helps blend the wet ingredients, while a spatula is great for folding in berries.
• 8×8-inch Baking Pan: The ideal pan size for this recipe.
• Parchment Paper: Helps lift out the blondies for easy slicing.
• Zester: A microplane zester makes it easy to get fresh lemon zest.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure precise measurements for the best results.

Frequently Asked Questions for Raspberry Lemon Blondies

1. Can I use frozen raspberries?
   Yes, but coat them in flour to prevent excess moisture from affecting the texture.
2. Can I make these blondies gluten-free?
   Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend as a 1:1 substitute.
3. How do I know when they’re done baking?
   The edges should be golden, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a few moist crumbs.
4. Can I add more lemon flavor?
   Absolutely! Increase the lemon zest or add a lemon glaze.
5. How should I store leftovers?
   Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

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Conclusion

Raspberry Lemon Blondies are a delightful blend of bright citrus, juicy berries, and buttery richness. Their soft, chewy texture and vibrant flavor make them an irresistible treat for any occasion.

Whether you’re baking for a celebration, sharing with a friend, or simply indulging in a sweet moment, these blondies are sure to be a hit. Each bite bursts with the perfect balance of tart lemon and sweet raspberry, making them a treat you’ll want to bake again and again.

I’d love to see your Raspberry Lemon Blondies! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy baking!