Raspberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars
There’s something irresistibly comforting about a dessert that doubles as a breakfast. Meet Raspberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars, the perfect blend of chewy oats and the sweet, jammy burst of raspberries. These bars are a delicious treat you can enjoy any time of day, and the best part? They require less than ten minutes of prep before they head into the oven. Easy to love, even easier to make!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These bars are a delightful combination of crunchy and soft, with a rich oat base that complements the fruity raspberry jam perfectly. They’re not only simple to make, but they also use minimal ingredients and kitchen equipment, making them a go-to for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick dessert or a satisfying snack, these bars have you covered.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- 8-inch square baking dish
- Electric mixer
- Large mixing bowl
- Nonstick spray
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats, NOT quick cook or instant
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 (18 oz) jar raspberry jam
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease an 8-inch square baking dish with nonstick spray. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the butter and sugars until smooth.
- Add the vanilla extract, oats, flour, salt, and baking powder to the creamed mixture and stir to combine.
- Press 3/4 of the oat mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Spread the raspberry jam evenly over the top. Crumble the remaining oat mixture over the jam.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden brown. Let the bars cool completely, about 2 hours, before slicing and serving. Enjoy!
Tips for Success
Make sure your butter is softened before creaming it with the sugars, as this will ensure a smooth mixture. When spreading the raspberry jam, be gentle to avoid lifting the oat base. If you prefer a thicker jam layer, feel free to add more jam, but be mindful of the overall sweetness.
Additional Tips and Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping the raspberry jam for another fruit flavor like strawberry or apricot. You can also add a handful of chopped nuts to the crumble topping for a bit of extra crunch.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
These bars are a delightful treat, but remember to enjoy them in moderation. Each serving is rich in flavors and provides a good source of oats, which are known for their heart-healthy benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats? It’s best to use rolled oats for this recipe, as they provide the right texture and structure.
Can I make these bars gluten-free? Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
How should I store these bars? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Conclusion
Raspberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars are a simple yet delightful treat that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Give them a try and let the sweet, chewy goodness speak for itself. We’d love to hear your thoughts and any creative variations you come up with, so don’t forget to share your experiences!
