These Raspberry Jam Streusel Bars have a buttery shortbread crust, a thick layer of sweet raspberry jam, and a crunchy streusel topping. This simple, customizable recipe is quick and easy to make, making it the perfect treat for any occasion!
Raspberry Jam Streusel Bars are a classic treat featuring a buttery shortbread crust, a generous layer of sweet raspberry jam, and a crunchy streusel topping.
This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re looking for a simple homemade snack or a show-stopping addition to a potluck.
With minimal effort and the ability to customize with different jams and nuts, these bars are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and become a go-to favorite in your recipe box.
Why You’ll Love These Raspberry Jam Streusel Bars
These bars combine a buttery shortbread base, raspberry jam, and a crunchy streusel topping with walnuts, creating a simple yet irresistible dessert. No complicated ingredients or glaze required (unless of course, you want to!) – just pure deliciousness.
- Simple Ingredients: Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, which is always a win!
- Minimal Effort: No par-baking or chilling required – just mix, assemble, and bake.
- Customizable: Switch out the jam or nuts for your personal touch.
- Perfect for Sharing: These bars transport easily, making them ideal for potlucks or cookie trays.
Tips for Perfect Raspberry Jam Streusel Bars
- Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your butter is soft to cream easily with sugar.
- Use Brown Sugar: Don’t substitute with white sugar – the molasses in brown sugar activates the baking powder.
- Toast Your Nuts: Toasting enhances the flavor and adds a delightful crunch.
Raspberry Jam Streusel Bar Variations
Try these variations for different flavor combinations:
- Blueberry & Pecan: Add 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest to the crust.
- Strawberry & Pistachio: Swap cinnamon for 1/2 teaspoon cardamom.
- Cherry & Almond: Add 1/4 teaspoon ginger or allspice.
- Orange Marmalade & Walnut: Add 1/2 teaspoon almond extract.
- Fig & Macadamia Nut: Swap cinnamon for 1/2 teaspoon cardamom.
How to Store Raspberry Jam Streusel Bars
To freeze, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and then in tin foil or a freezer bag. Defrost by allowing them to come to room temperature.
Other Bar Recipes You should try
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Raspberry Jam Streusel Bars
Equipment
- 1 8-inch square pan
- Electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons (85 g) unsalted butter, room temp and cut into 1/2 inch chunks
- 1/2 cup (106 g) brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon Diamond Crystal Kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 3/4 cup (90 g) all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup (75 g) old fashioned rolled oats
- 1/4 cup (29 g) walnuts or pecans, chopped and lightly toasted
Filling
- 1/2 cup (170 g) raspberry jam, substitute your favorite jam flavor
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and arrange a rack in the middle. Spray an 8-inch square pan with non-stick spray and set aside.
- Prepare the dough: In a bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream the butter, brown sugar, baking soda, salt, vanilla, and cinnamon on medium speed until smooth.
- Add dry ingredients: Add the flour and oats, mixing on low speed until just combined. The dough will be crumbly.
- Layer the crust: Divide the dough in half. Press half of the dough into the bottom of the prepared pan, smoothing it evenly with your fingers or the bottom of a measuring cup.
- Prepare the topping: Mix the remaining half of the dough with the toasted nuts.
- Add the jam and top with dough: Spread the raspberry jam evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the remaining dough and nuts over the jam. It’s okay if the jam shows through.
- Bake the bars: Bake for 25-35 minutes, or until the jam is bubbling and the streusel topping is golden brown. Let the bars cool before cutting into squares.
Notes
Store these Raspberry Jam Streusel Bars in an airtight container for up to 5 days at room temperature. Freezer Instructions:
To freeze, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and again in tin foil or a freezer-safe bag. Individually wrapping them makes it easy to grab one at a time. These bars will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. To defrost, simply let them come to room temperature for about an hour. Substitutions & Variations:
- Use different jam flavors such as strawberry, blueberry, cherry, or fig spread.
- Switch out the nuts for almonds, pistachios, macadamia nuts, or your favorite variety.
- For a salted variation, sprinkle a little sea salt on top before baking.
- 8-inch square pan (Alternatively, you can use a 9-inch round cake pan if needed)
