Raspberry Crumb Bars
Raspberry crumb bars are a delightful treat that combines a sweet, fruity filling with a buttery oat crust. Perfect for dessert or a snack, these bars offer a delicious balance of flavors and textures. The rich raspberry jam filling paired with a crumbly topping makes them a favorite for many. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a sweet craving, these bars are a fantastic choice.
Why Make This Recipe
There are countless reasons to make raspberry crumb bars. First, they’re easy to prepare with simple ingredients you likely have at home. They also bring a burst of fruity flavor, satisfying your sweet tooth without being overly complicated. Plus, these bars make for a beautifully presented dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a picnic, potluck, or just a cozy night at home.
How to Make Raspberry Crumb Bars
Making raspberry crumb bars is straightforward. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch ready in no time.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour
- 1/4 teaspoon Baking Soda
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt
- 1 cup Rolled Oats (Old Fashioned)
- 1/2 cup Light Brown Sugar (firmly packed)
- 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (softened)
- 3/4 cup Raspberry Jam (seedless variety may be preferred)
Directions:
Oven Preparation: Begin by preheating the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with aluminum foil, leaving a 2-inch overhang on two opposite sides to help you lift out the bars later. Grease the foil lightly.
Dry Ingredient Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt thoroughly. Add the rolled oats and light brown sugar. Use your fingers to break up any lumps of brown sugar so everything is evenly combined.
Incorporating Butter: Add the softened unsalted butter to the dry ingredients. Mix it in using your fingertips until the mixture becomes uniformly moist. This will be your base and topping.
Assembling the Base: Take about 2 cups of the oat mixture and press it firmly into the prepared baking dish to create an even base layer.
Adding the Raspberry Layer: Spread the raspberry jam evenly over the oat base. Keep about 1/4 inch margin from the edges to prevent the jam from flowing out during baking.
Final Layer and Baking: Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the raspberry jam and press it down gently. Bake in the oven for about 34 to 38 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooling and Serving: After baking, let the bars cool completely in the dish. This helps them set perfectly. Once cooled, use the foil to lift the bars out and cut them into pieces. Store the bars in an airtight container.
How to Serve Raspberry Crumb Bars
Raspberry crumb bars can be enjoyed plain or paired with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for an extra special treat. They are also delicious served with a hot cup of tea or coffee.
How to Store Raspberry Crumb Bars
To keep your raspberry crumb bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Tips to Make Raspberry Crumb Bars
- Ensure your butter is softened, but not melted, for the best texture.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of raspberry jam according to your taste.
- You can add nuts or coconut to the crumb mixture for added flavor and texture.
Variation
You can easily switch up the jam used in this recipe. Try other flavors like blueberry, strawberry, or mixed berry for a different twist!
FAQs
1. Can I freeze raspberry crumb bars?
Yes, you can freeze them! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to three months.
2. What kind of oats should I use?
Old-fashioned rolled oats work best, as they give a nice texture. Avoid quick oats, as they may make the bars too soft.
3. Can I use fresh raspberries instead of jam?
Yes, you can use fresh raspberries, but you’ll need to add some sugar to taste and possibly thicken them with a bit of cornstarch to prevent excess moisture.
