Mrs. Elinor'S Jam Bars
Sweet and fruity jam bars combine buttery crumb topping with vibrant raspberry jam, perfect for a quick dessert or snack that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cake mix, oats, melted margarine, and water.
- Mix until crumbly in texture.
- Spread half of the mixture in a greased 9 x 13-inch pan and pour the jam over top.
- Sprinkle the remaining cake crumbs over the jam.
- Bake at 350°F for 25 to 30 minutes.
- Cool, cut into squares, and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a different flavor, you can substitute the raspberry jam with strawberry or apricot jam. If you're looking for a healthier option, try using coconut oil instead of margarine, and consider using rolled oats instead of quick cooking oats for a chewier texture. Make sure to mix the ingredients until crumbly, but don't overmix to keep the bars from becoming too dense.
Serving Suggestions
These jam bars make a delightful dessert or snack, perfect for picnics or as a sweet treat alongside a cup of tea or coffee. They pair beautifully with a fresh Mustard Vinaigrette Salad Dressing for a balanced meal. Consider serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent twist, or alongside B. J.'S Fruit Salad for a refreshing side.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover jam 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 microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes for a freshly baked taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mrs. Elinor'S Jam Bars contains roughly 234 calories, with 3g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium.
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 gluten-free cake mix for this recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use a gluten-free yellow cake mix to make these jam bars gluten-free. Just ensure that the other ingredients, particularly the oats, are certified gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination.
How can I make these jam bars vegan?
To make these jam bars vegan, substitute the melted margarine with a plant-based butter or coconut oil. You can also use a flaxseed egg or applesauce as a binding agent instead of any egg, if one is required in the cake mix instructions.
Can I freeze these jam bars?
Yes, these jam bars freeze well! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving, or warm them slightly in the oven for a fresh taste.
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).