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To create a luscious raspberry lemon filling for your Zesty No-Bake Lemon Raspberry Dream Bars, start by selecting ripe, fresh raspberries. Their natural sweetness and vibrant color are essential for achieving a delightful balance with the tangy lemon. If fresh raspberries are unavailable, frozen ones can be used; just make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture.

No-Bake Lemon Raspberry Bars

Beat the heat with a refreshing treat this summer! These Zesty No-Bake Lemon Raspberry Dream Bars are the perfect no-bake dessert, combining tangy lemon and sweet raspberries for a delightful explosion of flavor. Made with wholesome ingredients like almond flour, dates, and coconut milk, they offer a nutritious and guilt-free indulgence without the oven. Ideal for picnics or family gatherings, these bars are sure to impress and satisfy your cravings for something light and delicious. Dive into this simple, step-by-step recipe to create your own irresistible summer delight!

Ingredients
  

1 cup almond flour

1 cup pitted dates, packed tightly

1/4 cup coconut oil, melted

1/4 teaspoon sea salt

1 cup fresh raspberries (reserve a few for garnish)

1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (approximately 3-4 lemons)

2 tablespoons lemon zest (freshly grated)

1/4 cup pure maple syrup (adjust to taste)

1 (14 oz) can full-fat coconut milk (chilled overnight; use only the solid cream)

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional, for a delightful texture)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Base: In a food processor, add almond flour, packed pitted dates, melted coconut oil, and sea salt. Pulse the mixture until it becomes crumbly but holds together when pressed between your fingers.

    Form the Layer: Line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Firmly press the almond-date mixture into the bottom of the dish, ensuring an even layer. Place the dish in the freezer for about 30 minutes to set while you prepare the filling.

      Make the Filling: In the cleaned food processor, combine fresh raspberries, freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, maple syrup, and the solid coconut cream (discard the liquid). Blend until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. Taste the filling; if you prefer it sweeter, gradually add more maple syrup until it reaches your desired sweetness.

        Incorporate Chia Seeds: If you’re opting to include chia seeds, thoughtfully stir them into the raspberry mixture to ensure they’re evenly distributed. This step adds a fun texture to your filling!

          Assemble the Bars: Take the base out of the freezer. Gently pour the raspberry lemon mixture onto the set base. Use a spatula to spread the filling evenly across the surface.

            Chill to Set: Cover the dish securely with plastic wrap or foil and return it to the freezer. Allow the bars to chill for at least 4 hours or until they are completely set and firm.

              Serve: Once the bars have set, lift them out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang for easy removal. Cut into squares or rectangles. To enhance presentation, garnish each bar with a few fresh raspberries and a light sprinkle of lemon zest before serving.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 4 hours | 12 bars