Raspberry Meringue Bars
Delightful raspberry meringue bars feature a buttery crust, tangy raspberry jam, and fluffy meringue topping, perfect for sweet gatherings and afternoon tea treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Grease a 15 1/2 x 10 1/2 x 1-inch jelly roll pan.
- Cream the butter, 1/2 cup of sugar, and egg yolks in a food processor with a metal blade or in a mixing bowl with an electric mixer until well blended.
- Add flour and mix until incorporated. Pat the dough into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until lightly browned.
- Remove from oven and leave oven on.
- Cool the pastry for 5 minutes and spread with raspberry jam.
- In a clean bowl, beat egg whites with salt until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add remaining sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the meringue over the jam layer and sprinkle with chopped walnuts.
- Bake for an additional 15 minutes until meringue is lightly browned.
- Allow to cool before slicing and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter and high-quality raspberry jam. You can substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds if desired. Make sure the egg whites are at room temperature for optimal volume when beating. If you're short on time, you can use a pre-made shortbread crust instead of making the pastry from scratch.
Serving Suggestions
These Raspberry Meringue Bars are delightful on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They make a lovely dessert for gatherings or as a sweet finish to a meal. For a more indulgent treat, serve alongside a slice of Grandma Trey Clement'S Carrot Cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, allow the bars to come to room temperature before serving. If you prefer, you can reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Raspberry Meringue Bars contains roughly 524 calories, with 13g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 649mg per serving (28% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh raspberries instead of raspberry jam?
While fresh raspberries can add a delicious tartness, they won't provide the same spreadable consistency as jam. If using fresh fruit, consider making a quick raspberry sauce by cooking them down with a bit of sugar to achieve a similar flavor and texture.
How do I know when the meringue is done baking?
The meringue is done when it has a light golden color on top and feels firm to the touch. You can gently press on it with a finger; it should not feel sticky or wet. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking to prevent over-browning.
Can I freeze Raspberry Meringue Bars?
Yes, you can freeze these bars! Make sure to slice them into portions before freezing for easier thawing. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).