Raspberry Crumble Bars Recipe

Flour: The base of the crumble mixture, providing structure and texture.

Rolled oats: Adds a chewy texture and a bit of heartiness to the bars.

Brown sugar: Sweetens the crumble and adds a hint of molasses flavor.

Butter: Binds the crumble mixture together and adds richness.

Raspberry jam: The star of the show, providing a sweet and tart filling.

When mixing the flour, oats, and brown sugar together, make sure to blend them thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of ingredients. This helps create a consistent texture in the crumble mixture. Additionally, when adding the melted butter, pour it in gradually while stirring to achieve the perfect crumbly consistency. For a more even bake, press the bottom layer firmly into the baking dish to create a solid base for the raspberry jam.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients, giving the bars a slightly nuttier flavor.

• rolled oats - Substitute with quick oats: Quick oats can be used if you prefer a finer texture in the crumble.

• brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a slight caramel flavor.

• melted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil is a dairy-free alternative that provides a subtle coconut flavor and similar texture.

• raspberry jam - Substitute with strawberry jam: Strawberry jam offers a different berry flavor while maintaining the same consistency and sweetness.

• Allow the raspberry crumble bars to cool completely at room temperature. This helps to set the jam and crumble topping.

• Once cooled, cut the bars into your desired size. Use a sharp knife to ensure clean edges.

• For short-term storage, place the bars in an airtight container. You can layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Store at room temperature for up to 3 days.

• For longer storage, refrigerate the bars. Place them in an airtight container, again using parchment paper between layers. They will keep fresh for up to a week.

• To freeze, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap. This prevents freezer burn and makes it easy to grab a single serving.

• Place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

• When ready to enjoy, thaw the bars at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.

• For a warm treat, reheat the thawed bars in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will revive the crispiness of the crumble topping.

• Avoid microwaving the bars as it can make the crust soggy and the jam overly gooey.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the raspberry crumble bars on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Cover the bars loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
  4. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
  5. Let them cool slightly before enjoying the deliciously warm dessert.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place a raspberry crumble bar on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds.
  3. Check the temperature and heat in additional 10-second intervals if needed.
  4. Be cautious not to overheat, as the jam can become too hot.

• Toaster Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the raspberry crumble bars on the toaster oven tray.
  3. Heat for about 8-10 minutes or until the bars are warmed through and the crumble is slightly crispy.
  4. Allow to cool for a minute before serving.

• Stovetop Skillet Method:

  1. Preheat a non-stick skillet over low heat.
  2. Place the raspberry crumble bars in the skillet.
  3. Cover with a lid to trap the heat and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Check occasionally to ensure they are warming evenly and not burning.
  5. Remove from the skillet and let cool slightly before serving.

• Oven: Used to bake the raspberry crumble bars at the specified temperature.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the flour, oats, and brown sugar.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the flour, oats, brown sugar, and raspberry jam.

• Measuring spoons: Useful for measuring smaller quantities if needed.

• Spatula: Helps in mixing the ingredients and spreading the raspberry jam evenly.

• Baking dish: The container where the crumble mixture and jam are layered and baked.

• Grease brush or spray: Used to grease the baking dish to prevent sticking.

• Cooling rack: Allows the bars to cool evenly after baking.

• Knife: Used to cut the cooled crumble into bars.

• Cutting board: Provides a surface for cutting the bars.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out flour, oats, and brown sugar ahead of time to streamline your process.

Use parchment paper: Line your baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.

Microwave butter: Melt the butter in the microwave to save time.

Preheat oven early: Start preheating your oven before you begin mixing ingredients.

Spread jam evenly: Use a spatula to quickly and evenly spread the raspberry jam over the crust.