Name: Chocolate Raspberry Crumb Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-486473H44M51S
Total time: PT-486473H44M51S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats; 1 cup granulated sugar; ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp baking powder; ¼ tsp salt; 1 ½ cups fresh raspberries; ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 2 tbsp raspberry jam

These Chocolate Raspberry Crumb Bars are the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, with a rich, indulgent chocolate layer complemented by the freshness of raspberries. The crumb topping adds a delightful crunch, making every bite an irresistible treat. Whether you’re craving a dessert for a special occasion or just want something to satisfy your sweet tooth, these bars are a great choice. Chocolate Raspberry Crumb Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love how easy these bars are to make, yet they feel like a decadent dessert. The combination of the rich chocolate layer and the tart raspberry filling is a match made in heaven. Plus, the crumb topping gives them a texture contrast that makes each bite even more enjoyable. They’re perfect for family gatherings, a quick treat for friends, or a delicious snack for yourself. The best part is that these bars can be prepped in advance, so I can keep them on hand for whenever I need a sweet indulgence.

Ingredients

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
1 cup granulated sugar
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp baking powder
¼ tsp salt
1 ½ cups fresh raspberries
½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 tbsp raspberry jam

(Heroes a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, oats, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until the dough comes together; it should be crumbly but hold together when pressed.
Set aside about 1 cup of the crumb mixture for the topping, and press the remaining dough into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form a crust.
In a separate bowl, mix the raspberries with the raspberry jam, then gently spread this raspberry mixture over the crumb crust in the pan.
Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the raspberry layer.
Crumble the remaining dough over the top to create a crumbly topping.
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the bars are golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean when inserted into the center.
Let the bars cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes before cutting into squares.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 servings, depending on how large you cut the bars. The preparation time is about 15 minutes, and the baking time takes 35-40 minutes. After they cool down, the bars will be ready to enjoy!

Variations

Use other berries: If raspberries aren’t your favorite, feel free to substitute with other berries like strawberries, blackberries, or blueberries. Each one offers a unique flavor that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
Add nuts: For an extra crunch, I like to add chopped almonds or walnuts to the crumb mixture or sprinkle them on top of the bars before baking.
Dark chocolate: If you’re a fan of darker chocolate, substitute the semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips for a richer, more intense flavor.

Storage/Reheating

To store these Chocolate Raspberry Crumb Bars, I place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can also be stored in the fridge for up to a week if I want them to last longer. If I want to enjoy them warm, I simply reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use frozen raspberries for this recipe?

Yes, frozen raspberries work well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess moisture before using them in the filling.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! I often make them the day before I plan to serve them. Just store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Can I substitute the butter with a dairy-free option?

Yes, you can use a dairy-free butter substitute or coconut oil to make these bars dairy-free. The texture and flavor will still turn out great!

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The bars are done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The raspberry filling may bubble up, but the bars should hold together well when cut.

Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, these bars freeze very well! Once completely cooled, I wrap them in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To thaw, just leave them at room temperature for a couple of hours.

Conclusion

Chocolate Raspberry Crumb Bars are a delightful treat that combines the best of chocolate and fruit flavors. With a simple list of ingredients and easy preparation steps, this recipe is a go-to for me when I want to make something delicious for a gathering or for a cozy afternoon snack. The combination of the crumbly crust, fresh raspberries, and chocolate is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether I’m serving them for a party or enjoying them solo, these bars are always a hit!