Okay, friend, let me tell you about these Raspberry Crumb Bars. Imagine the perfect combination of a buttery, slightly salty shortbread crust, a vibrant, tangy raspberry filling, and a sweet, crumbly topping that just melts in your mouth. These bars are like a cross between a raspberry pie and a shortbread cookie, but honestly? I think they’re even better. They’re easier to make than pie, and somehow more satisfying than just a plain cookie. And if you love a good dessert that’s not overly sweet, these are absolutely going to be your new go-to. I make these for everything now. I’ve made them when i am celebrating something or just wanting something nice, my entire family loves them!
What are Raspberry Crumb Bars?
Think of Raspberry Crumb Bars as the ultimate comforting, yet slightly sophisticated, dessert bar. They start with a buttery, shortbread-like base that’s pressed into a pan. Then comes the star of the show: a luscious raspberry filling, often made with fresh or frozen raspberries (I usually go for frozen – they’re just so convenient!). Finally, everything is topped with a sweet and crumbly mixture of flour, butter, and sugar. It’s essentially three delicious layers that bake together to create a harmonious explosion of flavors and textures. They’re really easy to cut and they are super portable!
Why do I love this recipe?
Where do I start?flavorThe tanginess of raspberries cuts through the richness of the buttery crust. What is the sweetness of the crumb topping? What is the best bite you have ever had? What are the best Raspberry Crumb Bars?simpleIs this recipe easy to make? Plus, the ingredients are pretty good.cost-effective– you probably already have most of them in your pantry. And the best part?versatilityCan you serve them for breakfast with coffee, as a delightful afternoon treat, or as an appetizer? After dinner, what is the best dessert to serve? What I love about this is that its not overly sweet, which makes this recipe perfect for me. What is that raspberry flavor? What are some of the best kitchen smells you’ve ever had?
How to Make Raspberry Crumb Bars
Quick Overview
Making these Raspberry Crumb Bars is easier than you think! You basically make one dough, press half into the pan for the crust, mix up the simple raspberry filling, spread it over the crust, crumble the remaining dough on top, and bake! The amazing thing is how simple the process is, yet how amazing the results are!
Ingredients
For the Crust and Crumb Topping: 1 tsp. (
* 1 1/2 cups (180g) all-purpose flour – I always use unbleached for a slightly nuttier flavor.
* 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps create that perfect crumbly texture.
* 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
* 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks, 170g) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes – Make sure it’s *really* cold for the best crumbly texture. I sometimes even freeze it for 15 minutes before using.
For the Raspberry Filling:
* 4 cups (450g) frozen raspberries – I prefer frozen because they’re available year-round and tend to be ripe. To be more affordable.
* 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar – You can adjust this depending on how sweet your raspberries are.
* 3 tablespoons cornstarch – Helps thicken the filling and prevent it from being too runny.
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice – Brightens the flavor and balances sweetness.
Optional Glaze:
* 1 cup powdered sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness and finish.
* 2-3 tablespoons milk or lemon juice – Use milk for a more subtle flavor, lemon zest for an tangy flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. If you want to remove the excess paper, you can line it with parchment paper. I always do this – it makes cleanup a breeze!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. Set aside. Why is salt so evenly distributed?
Step 3: Cut In the Butter
Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry blender or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. The key here is to work quickly so the butter doesn’t melt. You want little pockets of cold butter to create those flaky crumbs.
Step 4: Press Half into Pan
Press half of the crumb mixture into the prepared baking pan. Press it firmly and evenly to create a solid crust. I like to use the bottom of a measuring cup to make sure it’s nice and even.
Step 5: Prepare Filling
In a medium saucepan, combine the frozen raspberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the raspberries have broken down and the mixture has thickened. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Don’t worry if it seems a little runny at first – it will thicken as it cools.
Step 6: Layer & Swirl
Pour the raspberry filling over the crust in the pan, spreading it evenly. Then, sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the raspberry filling. Gently press the crumb topping so it will stick to the filling as it bakes. Make sure you spread the crumble evenly so you get it in every bite!
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time, as ovens can vary.
Step 8: Cool & Glaze
Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting. This is important, as the filling will continue to set as it cools. While the bars are cooling, you can make the optional glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar and milk (or lemon juice) until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bars. I let my glaze sit for about 10 minutes before serving!
Step 9: Slice & Serve
Cut the Raspberry Crumb Bars into squares and serve. I like to dust them with a little extra powdered sugar for a pretty presentation. They’re delicious served warm, at room temperature, or even chilled. I like to serve this at room temperature because i think it brings out the most flavor!
What should I serve it with?
What are Raspberry Crumb Bars?
For Breakfast: Pair a Raspberry Crumb Bar with a strong cup of coffee or a latte for a delightful morning treat. You can even warm it up slightly for extra coziness.
For Brunch: These bars are a fantastic addition to any brunch spread. Arrange them on a platter with other pastries, fresh fruit, and yogurt for a beautiful and delicious display. I would serve this at brunch with some eggs, they would pair well with eggs!
As Dessert:Serve these bars as a simple yet elegant dessert after dinner. Can you top them with vanilla Ice Cream or whipped cream?
For Cozy Snacks:What are some good Raspberry Crumb Bars to serve with tea or hot chocolate? What are some of the best comfort foods?
My family actually loves to eat this with a cup of tea. It warms you right up, especially during winter. My grandmother used to always make tea so it just makes me feel really nice when I have it with tea.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Raspberry Crumb Bars
Want to take your Raspberry Crumb Bars to the next level? Here are a few tips I’ve learned over the years:
Butter is Key: Make sure your butter is *really* cold when you cut it into the dry ingredients. This will create those flaky, crumbly textures that make these bars so irresistible. If your butter starts to soften, pop it back in the fridge or freezer for a few minutes.
Don’t Overmix: When you’re cutting the butter into the dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix. You want the mixture to resemble coarse crumbs, not a smooth paste. Overmixing will result in a tough crust.
Adjust the Sweetness: If your raspberries are particularly tart, you may want to add a little extra sugar to the filling. Taste the filling before you pour it over the crust and adjust the sweetness to your liking.
Get Creative with the Filling: While I love the classic raspberry filling, you can definitely experiment with other fruits. Try using blueberries, blackberries, or even a mix of berries. You can also add a touch of almond extract or Vanilla Extract to the filling for extra flavor.
Baking Time: Keep an eye on the bars towards the end of the baking time. Ovens can vary, so you may need to adjust the baking time slightly. The bars are done when the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Cool Completely: This is crucial! Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting. This will allow the filling to set properly and prevent the bars from falling apart. I know it’s tempting to dig in while they’re still warm, but trust me, it’s worth the wait.
Experiment with Extracts: Try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract, almond extract, or even a hint of rosewater to the crumb mixture for a unique flavor twist. Almond extract and raspberry? Divine!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Want to make these Raspberry Crumb Bars ahead of time? Here’s how to store them properly:
Room Temperature: These bars can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days. Cover them loosely with plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container.
Refrigerator Storage: For longer storage, you can refrigerate the bars for up to 5 days. Store them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer Instructions: These bars also freeze well. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning to store the bars, it’s best to add the glaze just before serving. This will prevent the glaze from becoming sticky or dissolving during storage.
My family actually loves the bars straight out of the freezer! It’s like an Ice Cream bar!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it! My go-to recipe for Raspberry Crumb Bars that are guaranteed to impress. They’re easy, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, I know you’ll love this recipe. They’re just so buttery, tangy, and sweet. If you enjoyed this, you should try my blueberry crumble next – it’s just as amazing! Happy baking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out! Let me know in the comments below if you make them!
