Matrimonial Bars(Christmas)
Matrimonial Bars are sweet, oat-based dessert bars with a raspberry jam filling, perfect for festive occasions or as a delightful treat for family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the butter and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add flour and baking soda to the mixture and mix well.
- Stir in quick oats until evenly combined.
- Take half of the oat mixture and press it into a well-greased 9 x 11-inch pan to form the crust.
- Press firmly to make a solid crust.
- Spread raspberry jam evenly over the crust, being careful not to break the oat layer.
- Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the jam and gently press it down to form the top crust.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before cutting into bars and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of Crisco or margarine. If raspberry jam isn't available, any fruit spread like blueberry or strawberry can work well. Ensure the oat mixture is evenly distributed to maintain a consistent texture. Adding a pinch of salt can enhance the sweetness and balance the flavors. These bars are versatile and can be customized with nuts or chocolate chips for added richness.
Serving Suggestions
These bars make a delightful treat for holiday gatherings and pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. Serve them alongside American recipes like Macaroni And Cheese Or Cheese Spaghetti for a comforting meal. They also can be enjoyed as a sweet snack or dessert after a meal, making them versatile for any occasion.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover matrimonial bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to two weeks. To reheat, simply warm them in a microwave for a few seconds or in an oven at low heat until just warmed through, making them deliciously soft.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Matrimonial Bars(Christmas) contains roughly 142 calories, with 4g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of iron (12% 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 regular oats instead of quick oats?
Yes, you can use regular oats, but the texture may be a bit chewier. Just be sure to adjust the baking time slightly as regular oats take longer to cook through.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check the oats as well; some brands are certified gluten-free.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when they turn a golden brown color on top, and you can lightly press down and feel that the center is set. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to prevent over-baking.
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).