As I was flipping through my favorite summer cookbooks, the vibrant colors of fresh raspberries caught my eye, instantly transporting me to sun-drenched picnics. That’s when I knew it was time to whip up these Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars—a perfect pairing of simplicity and flavor. This easy-to-follow recipe not only showcases the joy of homemade treats but also makes for a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s perfect for warm gatherings. With just five ingredients, you can create a rich shortbread crust topped with a sweet, gooey raspberry filling. Whether you’re a busy parent or a culinary enthusiast, these bars are a breeze to prepare and store well for later indulgence. So, are you ready to dive into a delightful summer baking adventure?
Why are these raspberry bars so irresistible?
Simplicity: With only five ingredients, these Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars come together in no time, making them ideal for busy days.
Bursting with Flavor: The sweet raspberry jam filling combined with the buttery crust creates a delightful blend that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Versatile Options: Feel free to experiment with different jams like strawberry or peach for a unique twist.
Perfect for Sharing: These bars are easy to cut into squares, making them perfect for potlucks and summer parties.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Enjoy them fresh or store them for later, as they stay delicious for days! If you’re also interested in other tasty treats, check out my Salted Caramel Chocolate or Chocolate Chip Bars.
Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars
Make your summer sweet and simple with these delightful treats!
For the Crust
- Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; ensure it’s softened for easier mixing.
- All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to the crust; substitute with a gluten-free blend if desired.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness; brown sugar can offer a deeper flavor note.
- Egg – Binds everything together and adds moisture; use at room temperature for best results.
For the Filling
- Seedless Raspberry Jam – Serves as the fruity layer; a 9-12 ounce jar is needed, or swap it with another jam like strawberry or blueberry for a unique taste.
These Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars are a perfect way to brighten up your summer gatherings!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin your baking adventure by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it prepares the environment for the Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars to bake evenly. While the oven heats up, gather your ingredients and equipment, including a large mixing bowl, an electric mixer, and a greased 13 x 9 inch baking dish.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and a room temperature egg using an electric mixer on low. Mix until the ingredients come together to form a crumbly mixture, about 2-3 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the dough clumps together and has a slightly sandy texture, ideal for the crust.
Step 3: Prepare the Crust
Next, reserve 1½ cups of the crumbly mixture for later use as the topping. Press the remaining dough firmly into the bottom of your greased baking dish, creating an even layer. Use your hands or a spatula to ensure it’s compact and smooth, establishing a lovely foundation for your raspberry filling that will bake beautifully.
Step 4: Add the Raspberry Jam
Spread the seedless raspberry jam evenly over the pressed crust layer. Take your time to cover the entire surface, ensuring every bite of your Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars is packed with that sweet raspberry flavor. The jam should be applied generously, allowing it to peek through the crumb topping for a delightful presentation.
Step 5: Crumble on the Topping
Now, take the reserved crumb mixture and crumble it over the raspberry jam. Sprinkle it evenly while pressing it lightly to create a nice texture. This step not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a crunchy bite that beautifully contrasts with the gooey jam underneath, making your bars simply irresistible.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown. Watch closely as they bake, and when the edges start to turn a delightful shade of gold, you’ll know your Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars are nearly done and ready to bring warmth to your kitchen.
Step 7: Cool and Cut
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let the raspberry bars cool in the baking dish at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. This cooling time allows the bars to set properly. After they have cooled slightly, cut into squares and prepare for a delicious taste of summer that you can enjoy anytime!
How to Store and Freeze Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars
Room Temperature: Keep your raspberry bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This is perfect for that immediate indulgence!
Fridge: If you’d like to extend their freshness, refrigerate the bars in an airtight container for up to a week. The cool temperature will help maintain their delightful texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the raspberry bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, bringing back their crumbly goodness.
Make Ahead Options
These Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the crust up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the butter, flour, sugar, and egg, and then pressing it into your baking dish; simply cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain freshness. Additionally, the crumb topping can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to bake, spread your raspberry jam over the prepared crust, sprinkle the reserved topping, and bake as instructed. This way, you’ll have homemade dessert ready with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights!
Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars Variations
Feel free to get creative with these delightful raspberry bars and personalize them to your taste!
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Jam Swaps: Substitute raspberry jam with flavors like strawberry, peach, or even mixed berry for a unique twist. Each variety brings its own vibrant taste to the bars, making them ever so exciting!
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Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts such as walnuts or almonds to the topping for a delightful crunch. Not only do they enhance texture, but they also add a rich, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet filling.
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Choco-Love: Mix in chocolate chips with the crumbly topping for a decadent twist. The melty chocolate brings a luxurious flair to the sweet-tart raspberry jam, perfect for chocolate lovers.
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Citrus Zest: Elevate the flavor by adding a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the dough. This infusion of citrus brightness complements the raspberry filling wonderfully.
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Gluten-Free Option: Swap out all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Enjoy the same delightful texture while accommodating gluten sensitivities!
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Drizzle Delight: Once cooled, drizzle melted white chocolate over the cooled bars for an elegant touch. The creamy sweetness provides a beautiful contrast to the tartness of the raspberry jam.
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Oat Topping Twist: Replace part of the topping mixture with rolled oats for a heartier texture. This adds chewiness and enhances the rustic feel of these bars.
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Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, inviting flavor. It’s a delightful complement, especially during the cooler months or holiday gatherings.
These adaptable variations allow you to craft Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars that suit any occasion! Enjoy exploring the flavors, and don’t forget to check out my Salted Caramel Chocolate and Chocolate Chip Bars for more inspirational sweet treats!
What to Serve with Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars
Imagine a delightful summer picnic spread that perfectly complements these luscious raspberry bars, enticing everyone’s taste buds.
- Refreshing Lemonade: The zesty tang of lemonade balances the sweetness of the bars, keeping you cool on a warm day.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on the side enhances the fruity flavors, creating a blissful dessert experience that’s uplifting.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a touch of elegance and creaminess to the bars, making them even more irresistible.
- Fresh Berries: Scatter a mix of berries like strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries next to the bars for a burst of freshness and vibrant color.
- Sparkling Water with Mint: This refreshing beverage option adds a hint of sophistication, the mint leaves naturally complementing the raspberry flavor.
- Chocolate Drizzle: A little drizzle of melted chocolate elevates these bars to a new level of indulgence, making them perfect for chocolate lovers.
With these delightful pairings, you’ll create a memorable summer gathering that showcases the best flavors of warm weather!
Expert Tips for Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars
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Softened Butter: Always use butter that’s softened to room temperature. This ensures a creamy texture, making it easier to combine with other ingredients.
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Careful Crumbling: When crumbling the topping over the jam, do it lightly. This prevents it from becoming overly packed and ensures a delightful texture once baked.
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Jam Choice: While raspberry jam is traditional, don’t hesitate to experiment with different flavors. Substituting with strawberry or peach jam can create a unique twist on these Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars.
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Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking process. Every oven is unique, so the bars are done when golden brown, not just after the recommended time.
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Cooling Period: Allow cooling in the pan for the best results. This helps the bars set nicely, making them easier to cut and enjoy!
Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best raspberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re making your own jam or using fresh raspberries, look for plump, firm berries with a vibrant color. Avoid any with dark spots or signs of mold, as they can impact the overall flavor. Fresh raspberries should ideally be used soon after buying, but can last up to 3 days when properly stored in the fridge.
What’s the best way to store leftover raspberry bars?
To keep your Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like them to last longer, refrigerate for up to a week. Make sure they cool completely before sealing to maintain their texture and flavor.
Can I freeze these raspberry bars for future enjoyment?
Very! To freeze your raspberry bars, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge. If you prefer them warm, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
What should I do if the crust is too crumbly?
If you find that the crust mixture is too crumbly and not holding together well, it’s likely that the butter wasn’t soft enough. Make sure it’s at room temperature before mixing! If you’ve already baked them and the crust fell apart, you can try serving them in bowls, topped with ice cream or whipped cream—it will still be delicious!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! If you have guests with allergies, be sure to inform them about the ingredients. These bars contain gluten and eggs, so if you’re cooking for someone with these allergies, consider using gluten-free flour and a flax or chia seed egg as a substitute. For those avoiding sugar, there are sugar alternatives available that can work in this recipe, just check for appropriate conversions.
Can I use other types of jam in this recipe?
Of course! One of the best things about these Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars is their versatility. Feel free to substitute raspberry jam with other flavors like strawberry, peach, or even apricot. Just keep in mind that each flavor will impart its own unique taste, making them all delightful in their own right!
Deliciously Easy Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Gather ingredients and equipment.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, flour, sugar, and egg using an electric mixer on low for 2-3 minutes.
- Reserve 1½ cups of the crumbly mixture and press the remaining into the bottom of the greased baking dish.
- Spread the raspberry jam evenly over the pressed crust layer.
- Crumble the reserved mixture over the jam evenly, pressing lightly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
- Let the bars cool in the baking dish for about 10-15 minutes before cutting into squares.
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