Description
Raspberry Jam Bars transport memories straight from Grandma’s kitchen to your plate, connecting generations through a simple, delightful dessert. Buttery crumble layers and sweet raspberry filling create a classic treat that brings comfort and joy with each delectable bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup raspberry jam
Supporting Ingredients:
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup shredded coconut (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Coat a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy bar removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream 1 cup softened unsalted butter with 1 cup granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and blend thoroughly.
- Gradually incorporate 2 cups all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Mix until the dough forms a slightly crumbly texture that holds together when pressed.
- Transfer approximately two-thirds of the dough into the prepared pan. Press the dough firmly and evenly across the bottom using your fingers or the back of a measuring cup.
- Warm 1 cup raspberry jam in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to increase spreadability. Distribute the jam uniformly across the shortbread base, ensuring complete and even coverage.
- Combine the remaining dough with ½ cup rolled oats and ½ cup shredded coconut (if desired). Break the mixture into small crumbles and scatter evenly over the jam layer.
- Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The top should turn golden brown, and jam edges will begin to bubble. Remove when achieving a rich, even color.
- Allow bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting. This resting period ensures clean, precise slices that showcase your delicious creation.
Notes
- Softened butter works best for creating a smooth, even shortbread crust that crumbles perfectly when baked.
- Choose a high-quality raspberry jam with minimal added sugar for a more natural, fresh fruit flavor in your bars.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to ensure clean, neat slices that hold their shape.
- For a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend, which will maintain the same tender texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Category: Dessert Bars
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 245 kcal
- Sugar: 15 g
- Sodium: 65 mg
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 1.5 g
- Protein: 2.5 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg