Name: Delicious Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars for Easy Summer Fun
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (softened, can substitute with salted butter); 2 cups all-purpose flour (can use gluten-free flour); 1 cup granulated sugar (can substitute with brown sugar); 1 large egg (should be at room temperature); 1 jar seedless raspberry jam (can swap for blueberry or strawberry jam); 1.5 cups reserved crumb mixture (from the crust mixture)

As I savored the sun-drenched days of summer, a craving for something sweet yet simple simmered in my mind. That’s when I stumbled upon the perfect solution: Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars! With just five pantry staples, this easy summer dessert transforms into a delightful treat featuring a buttery shortbread crust, a layer of luscious seedless raspberry jam, and a crumbly topping that’ll bring smiles to every gathering. The best part? These bars are not only a crowd-pleaser but also incredibly quick to whip up, making them ideal for impromptu picnics or family barbecue delights. Plus, you can easily swap the jam for your favorite flavors, from tangy blueberry to classic strawberry. Curious about how to make these scrumptious bars and impress your loved ones? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why are Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars irresistible?

Simplicity at its finest: With just five ingredients, these bars are a breeze to make, even for beginner bakers.
Endless variations: Swap out raspberry jam for your favorite flavor, like blueberry or strawberry, to keep things exciting!
Crowd-pleaser: Whether at a picnic or a family gathering, these bars are sure to impress everyone with their delicious taste and appealing look.
Perfect texture: The combination of a buttery crust, sweet jam, and crumbly topping creates a satisfying bite that balances sweetness and tartness beautifully.
Make-ahead option: Prepare these bars a day in advance for stress-free entertaining. Pair them with a cup of coffee or serve them for dessert, like with these delightful Rhubarb Custard Bars for extra sweetness!

Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars Ingredients

For the Crust

Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; you can substitute with salted butter if needed.
All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of the bars; feel free to use gluten-free flour for an alternative.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and aids in browning; brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor.
Egg – Binds the crust together; make sure it’s at room temperature for the best texture.

For the Filling

Seedless Raspberry Jam – This gives a fruity burst; other flavors like blueberry or strawberry offer delightful variations!

For the Topping

Reserved Crumb Mixture – Gathers flavors from the crust and creates a delightful crumble that balances sweetness with texture.

With these Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars, you’re all set for a summer delight that’s as easy as it is delicious!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is perfectly hot when you’re ready to bake your Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars. While the oven warms up, prepare your baking dish by greasing a 13×9 inch pan to prevent the bars from sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Crust Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 egg. Using an electric mixer on low speed, mix until the ingredients form a crumbly texture, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Make sure to scrape down the sides to incorporate all the ingredients evenly.

Step 3: Form the Crust
Once your mixture is crumbly, reserve about 1.5 cups of this delicious mixture in a small bowl for the topping. Press the remaining crust mixture firmly into the greased 13×9 inch baking dish to create an even layer. Aim for a smooth, flat surface that covers the bottom of the dish uniformly.

Step 4: Add the Raspberry Jam
Next, take a jar of seedless raspberry jam and spread it evenly over the crust. Use a spatula to ensure the jam is distributed uniformly across the surface, reaching all corners. This luscious layer will melt into the crust while baking, creating a delightful fruity filling in your raspberry bars.

Step 5: Crumble the Topping
Now, take the reserved crumb mixture that you set aside earlier and crumble it over the raspberry jam layer. Lightly press down on the crumbs to help them adhere together but avoid packing them tightly. This creates a lovely, crumbly topping that will bake to a beautiful golden brown on your Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars.

Step 6: Bake the Bars
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30–40 minutes. Keep an eye on the bars as they bake; they should turn a lovely golden brown on top. The aroma of sweet raspberry and buttery crust will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait!

Step 7: Cool and Slice
Once they’re golden and bubbly, remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. This cooling step is crucial for achieving clean edges when slicing. After cooling, cut the Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars into square or rectangular slices to serve.

Storage Tips for Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars

Room Temperature: Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness and texture.
Fridge: If you want to extend the life of your five ingredient raspberry bars, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Just let them come to room temperature before serving.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. These can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying!
Reheating: If you prefer a warm treat, reheat the bars in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until slightly warm. Enjoy the delightful aroma as they toast!

Make Ahead Options

These Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars are a meal prep dream come true! You can prepare the crust and crumb topping up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the butter, flour, sugar, and egg, then storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Remember to bring the mixture back to room temperature before using it for the best texture. Additionally, you can spread the raspberry jam over the crust a few hours ahead; just make sure to cover it tightly to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply crumble the topping over the jam and follow the baking directions. This way, you’ll have a delightful treat with minimal effort, ready to impress your family or guests!

What to Serve with Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars?

Treat your senses to a delightful meal that beautifully pairs with these fruity bars and sets the stage for summer gatherings.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy richness of vanilla ice cream complements the tartness of the raspberry bars, creating a delicious contrast.
Lemonade Spritzers: Refreshing and light, a sparkling lemonade adds a citrusy zing that balances the sweetness of the bars perfectly.
Greek Yogurt with Honey: The tangy yogurt drizzled with honey offers a creamy element that enhances the fruity flavors while adding a protein boost.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits not only brightens your plate but provides a refreshing, healthy treat alongside the indulgent bars.
Herbal Iced Tea: A chilled mint or chamomile iced tea infuses a calming element, making it a great match for vibrant raspberry flavors.
Almond Biscotti: These crunchy cookies are perfect for a dip into coffee or tea, providing a delightful texture contrast to the soft raspberry bars.
Chocolate Drizzle: Adding a light drizzle of melted chocolate over the bars results in a luxurious touch, offering an extra layer of flavor.

Imagine serving these delectable combinations at your next barbeque or picnic, where the layers of flavor will surely leave everyone smiling and reaching for seconds.

Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars Variations

Feel free to get creative and personalize your Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars with these delicious twists!

Flavor Swap: Substitute raspberry jam with strawberry, blueberry, or even peach for a different fruity experience. Each option infuses a unique taste signature to your bars!
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or almonds to the reserved crumb mixture for extra texture and heartiness. The added crunch beautifully complements the soft filling.
Chocolate Indulgence: Stir in white chocolate chips to the crumble topping for a velvety, indulgent experience. This little touch elevates the bars to a whole new level of delight.
Coconut Bliss: Incorporate shredded coconut into the crumble for a tropical essence. The coconut adds a delightful chewiness that pairs wonderfully with the fruity filling.
Zesty Flair: Mix in some lemon or orange zest to the crust for a refreshing citrus burst. This brightens the overall flavor profile and adds a lovely zing.
Gluten-Free Version: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these bars accessible to everyone while ensuring they maintain a soft texture.
Lower Calorie Option: Consider using sugar-free jam for the filling. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the flavor without the extra calories while still delighting your taste buds!

These variations can help you customize your Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars to suit any mood or occasion. For another delicious dessert idea, don’t miss out on these Rhubarb Custard Bars that will surely impress your guests!

Expert Tips for the Best Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars

Butter Matters: Always use softened unsalted butter at room temperature to ensure a creamy mix that produces a tender crust.
Chill Out: After baking, allow the bars to cool completely before slicing. This prevents messy edges and helps maintain the delicious structure of your five ingredient raspberry bars.
Oven Awareness: Baking times can vary based on your oven’s calibration. Keep an eye out for a golden brown top to ensure your bars are perfectly baked.
Flour Substitutes: If you’re opting for a gluten-free version, check that your gluten-free flour is a 1:1 substitute to keep the texture consistent with the original recipe.
Creative Fillings: Feel free to swap the raspberry jam with other fruity options like blueberry or strawberry to customize your bars while retaining that delightful sweetness.

Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars Recipe FAQs

What type of raspberry jam should I use?
For the best flavor, I recommend using seedless raspberry jam. It creates a smooth layer that melds perfectly into the crust. However, feel free to experiment with any favorite fruit jams like blueberry, strawberry, or even a mixed berry option!

How should I store leftover Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars?
Leftover bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you wish to keep them fresh for longer, refrigerate the bars for up to 1 week, ensuring to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best taste!

Can I freeze these bars for later?
Absolutely! To freeze your Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars, wrap each individual bar in plastic wrap and place them into a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight. You’ll love having these treats ready for a sweet snack!

What if my bars are too crumbly?
If your bars are too crumbly when baked, it could be due to over-mixing the crust or not using enough butter. Make sure to mix just until the ingredients come together, and use softened butter at room temperature. If it happens, you can try adding a tad more melted butter to the crumb mixture next time to create better cohesion!

Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend that allows for 1:1 substitutions. I often use a blend from a trusted brand that combines different gluten-free flours for the best texture. Just ensure that the flour blend you use includes xanthan gum for structure!