Carol'S Famous Raspberry Bars
Sweet and tangy raspberry bars with a buttery oatmeal crust, perfect for dessert or tea time, appealing to those who love fruity, crunchy treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix butter, brown sugar, flour, baking soda, and salt with a fork.
- Add oats to the mixture.
- Spread slightly more than half of the oatmeal mixture evenly in a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Spread raspberry jam evenly over the oatmeal mixture.
- Crumble the remaining oatmeal mixture over the jam.
- Bake at 400°F for 20 to 25 minutes.
- Allow to cool slightly, then cut into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a delightful twist, consider using homemade raspberry jam or even a different berry jam like blueberry or strawberry. If you want a nuttier flavor, add chopped nuts to the oatmeal mixture. Ensure your butter is softened for easier mixing, and don't overbake; the bars should be slightly soft in the center when you take them out of the oven.
Serving Suggestions
These raspberry bars are perfect as a sweet snack or dessert. Serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a cup of tea for a delightful afternoon treat. They also pair beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or Greek yogurt for a more indulgent experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store the raspberry bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them, which can help maintain freshness for up to a week. To reheat, place a bar in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, just until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carol'S Famous Raspberry Bars contains roughly 406 calories, with 3g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 998mg per serving (43% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh raspberries instead of jam?
While fresh raspberries will provide a burst of flavor, they won't have the same consistency as jam. If you prefer to use fresh berries, consider making a quick compote by cooking them down with a bit of sugar to create a spreadable topping.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The raspberry bars are done when the top is golden brown and the edges are firm. They will continue to set as they cool, so it's okay if they seem a little soft in the center when you take them out of the oven.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make these raspberry bars gluten-free by substituting regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just ensure that your oats are certified gluten-free as well to avoid cross-contamination.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).