Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars

Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars are a delightful treat that combines a buttery shortbread cookie crust with luscious raspberry jam, all topped off with a sweet crumb topping. Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these bars are easy to make and sure to impress. With just five ingredients, you can whip up a batch that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: With only five ingredients, these raspberry bars are incredibly easy to prepare.
• Quick Prep Time: You can have these delicious bars ready in just 40 minutes, making them perfect for last-minute dessert plans.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a dessert or snack; they’re great for any occasion.
• Perfectly Sweet: The combination of buttery crust and sweet raspberry jam creates a harmonious flavor profile.
• Easy to Store: These bars keep well in an airtight container, making them ideal for meal prep or planning ahead.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this simple recipe, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Electric mixer
• 13 x 9 inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when combining ingredients to create a crumbly texture.
• Baking dish: A quality dish ensures even baking and easy cutting of the bars once baked.

Ingredients

Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars require few ingredients but pack great flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Crust and Topping

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg (room temperature)

For the Filling

• 1 jar seedless raspberry jam (9-12 ounce jar)

How to Make Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your bars bake evenly.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

Using an electric mixer on low setting, combine the softened butter, flour, sugar, and egg until crumbly. Reserve 1 1/2 cups of this mixture for the topping.

Step 3: Create the Base

Press the remaining mixture into the bottom of a prepared 13 x 9 inch baking dish. Ensure it’s evenly spread for a consistent base.

Step 4: Add the Jam

Evenly spread the entire jar of seedless raspberry jam over the crust. Make sure it covers the surface completely for maximum flavor.

Step 5: Add Crumb Topping

Crumble your reserved topping over the jam layer. Press it lightly down to secure it in place.

Step 6: Bake

Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake at 350 degrees for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown on top.

Step 7: Cool and Cut

Once baked, allow your Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars to cool before cutting them into squares. Enjoy your delicious homemade dessert!

How to Serve Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars

These Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways. Whether for a summer picnic or a cozy family gathering, these bars will surely impress your guests.

Pair with Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a rich contrast to the tart raspberry flavor.
• Raspberry Sorbet: Enhance the raspberry experience by serving with a refreshing raspberry sorbet.

Add Fresh Fruits

• Sliced Strawberries: Fresh strawberries complement the raspberry jam and add a pop of color to your dessert plate.
• Blueberries: Toss some blueberries on top for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition.

Drizzle with Sauce

• Chocolate Sauce: A drizzle of warm chocolate sauce creates a deliciously rich topping.
• Caramel Sauce: Sweet caramel pairs nicely with the tangy raspberries for a decadent twist.

Serve with Beverages

• Iced Tea: Refreshing iced tea balances the sweetness of the bars, making it perfect for warm days.
• Sparkling Water: A glass of sparkling water adds a bubbly touch without overpowering the dessert’s flavors.

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars

Perfecting your Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars is easy with a few helpful tips. These suggestions will ensure your bars turn out delicious every time you make them.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
• Choose quality raspberry jam: A high-quality seedless raspberry jam enhances the flavor and overall taste of your bars.
• Don’t overmix: Mix until just combined to keep your bars tender and flaky.
• Let cool completely: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting for cleaner, more attractive slices.

Best Side Dishes for Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars

Serving side dishes alongside your Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars can elevate the overall dining experience. Here are some delightful options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a light, refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the bars.
2. Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream adds an airy touch that complements each bite perfectly.
3. Cheese Platter: Pairing with mild cheeses can create an interesting balance between sweet and savory flavors.
4. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: The salty crunch of pretzels coated in chocolate offers a fun textural contrast to the soft bars.
5. Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fresh berries makes an excellent accompaniment for breakfast or brunch events.
6. Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea enhances dessert enjoyment, providing warmth and comfort alongside the fruity bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars can be a breeze, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

• Using Cold Butter: Softened butter is essential for a crumbly texture. Make sure your butter is at room temperature to achieve the best results.
• Skipping the Preheat: Preheating your oven ensures even baking. Always preheat to 350 degrees before placing your bars in the oven.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Properly: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision and consistency.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on the bars as they bake. Remove them when they’re golden brown to prevent dryness and maintain their deliciousness.
• Cutting Too Soon: Allowing the bars to cool completely before cutting helps maintain their shape. Patience pays off for perfect presentation!
• Ignoring Storage Instructions: Proper storage keeps your bars fresh longer. Follow storage guidelines to enjoy them at their best.

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars will last up to a week in the fridge.

Freezing Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars

• Place bars in a freezer-safe container or wrap in plastic wrap.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350 degrees and warm for about 10 minutes for a fresh-baked taste.
• Microwave: Heat one bar at a time for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat, warming each bar gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making these delicious bars.

Can I use other types of jam for the Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars?

Yes! Feel free to substitute any seedless jam you love, such as strawberry or apricot.

How do I know when my Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars are done baking?

Look for a golden brown color on top. A toothpick inserted should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend.

What is the best way to serve Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars?

Serve them chilled or at room temperature. They pair wonderfully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream!

Final Thoughts

These Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars are not only easy to make but also versatile! Whether you’re looking for a refreshing summer dessert or a sweet treat any time of year, this recipe fits the bill. Customize it with your favorite jams or toppings, and enjoy every delightful bite!