Streusel Topped Raspberry Squares are a delightful treat that combine the tartness of fresh raspberries with a crunchy, sweet topping. This dessert is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering or just want something sweet at home. The layers of raspberry jam and fresh berries make each bite a burst of flavor, while the streusel topping adds a lovely texture.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Streusel Topped Raspberry Squares is a wonderful way to impress your friends and family with minimal effort. The ingredients are simple and easy to find, yet the final product looks and tastes gourmet. Plus, this recipe can easily be adapted to suit various dietary needs. Whether you’re using fresh or frozen raspberries, this dessert brings a taste of summer that you can enjoy all year round.
How to Make Streusel Topped Raspberry Squares
Ingredients:
- ¾ cup flour
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- Dash of salt
- 6 tablespoons butter, cold and cut into pieces
- ¼ cup raspberry jam, with or without seeds
- 2 cups fresh or frozen raspberries
- 1-2 tablespoons flour
- 4 tablespoons butter, cold and cut into pieces
- ½ cup flour
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375ºF.
- Make the crust by combining ¾ cup of flour, powdered sugar, salt, and 6 tablespoons of butter in a bowl. Cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles small peas. You can use a pastry blender or a food processor for this.
- Sprinkle the mixture into the bottom of an 8 x 8-inch pan; it helps to line the pan with aluminum foil for easy removal and cleanup. Press down with your hands to form a solid crust.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust starts to turn golden brown.
- For the filling, melt the raspberry jam in a small saucepan or in the microwave.
- In another bowl, gently mix the raspberries with 1-2 tablespoons of flour (1 tablespoon works well with fresh berries). Set aside.
- To make the streusel topping, mix the remaining butter, flour, and brown sugar until crumbly using a pastry blender or food processor.
- Once the crust is done, remove it from the oven and spread the melted jam evenly over the surface. Top with the raspberry mixture and sprinkle the streusel topping over everything.
- Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the berries are bubbly and the topping is golden brown. Allow it to cool completely before cutting.
How to Serve Streusel Topped Raspberry Squares
Streusel Topped Raspberry Squares are best served at room temperature. You can cut them into squares and serve them on a platter. They pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a fun touch, add a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top before serving.
How to Store Streusel Topped Raspberry Squares
To store your squares, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for about a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Wrap the squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to three months in the freezer.
Tips to Make Streusel Topped Raspberry Squares
- Make sure the butter is cold to ensure a flaky crust and crunchy streusel topping.
- If you don’t have fresh raspberries, feel free to use frozen ones. Just thaw and drain them before mixing with flour.
- Experiment with different types of jams. Strawberry or blueberry jam can add a unique twist to the flavor.
Variation
You can modify this recipe by adding nuts to the streusel topping for extra crunch or incorporating a splash of almond extract to enhance the flavor. For a healthier version, try using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour.
FAQs
Can I use other fruits instead of raspberries?
Absolutely! You can replace the raspberries with blueberries, strawberries, or even a mix of your favorite berries.
Can I make these squares ahead of time?
Yes, you can make them a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge.
Is it necessary to use jam?
Using jam is not strictly necessary; you can skip it or use fresh fruit alone. However, the jam helps to keep the filling cohesive and adds extra sweetness.
