Jam Filled Crumb Bars
Sweet, crunchy crumb bars filled with your favorite jam offer a delightful treat perfect for snacking or dessert, appealing to those who enjoy buttery, fruity flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend soft butter and sugar together, then add flour, salt, and baking soda, followed by crushed cereal.
- Mix well until combined.
- Press half of the mixture into a greased 13 x 9-inch pan as the base layer.
- Spread your chosen jam evenly over the bottom layer.
- Top with the remaining mixture and press down gently.
- Bake at 350°F for 35 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. You can also substitute the crushed cereal with oatmeal or graham cracker crumbs for a different texture. Ensure the butter is softened but not melted for better mixing. Experiment with different jams; raspberry or apricot work particularly well. If you prefer a nutty flavor, add chopped nuts to the crumb mixture.
Serving Suggestions
These crumb bars are perfect for a sweet snack or dessert. Serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a cup of coffee for a delightful pairing. They also make a great addition to picnic spreads or bake sales. For a fun twist, try pairing them with a dollop of whipped cream or a fruit compote.
Storage & Reheating
Store the jam-filled crumb bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes or until heated through. This will help restore their crumbly texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jam Filled Crumb Bars contains roughly 106 calories, with 3g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 995mg 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 any type of jam for this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite jam or preserve. Raspberry, strawberry, or even a citrus marmalade can add a delicious twist. Just ensure that the jam is spreadable for the best results.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The crumb bars are done when they turn a golden brown color and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to prevent over-browning.
Can I freeze these crumb bars?
Yes, these bars freeze well! Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
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).