As I stirred the buttery mixture, the sweet scent of raspberry jam filled the air, instantly whisking me away to sun-drenched summer picnics. These Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars are the epitome of easy desserts that bring a smile to every gathering. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you’ll create a delicious bar cookie featuring a crisp shortbread crust, a luscious jam filling, and a crumbly topping that’s impossible to resist. Not only are these bars quick to whip up, but they also make a perfect treat for sharing with friends and family, keeping everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply indulging on a lazy afternoon, I promise you’ll want these raspberry delights in your recipe arsenal. Curious to learn how to make these delectable bars? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why are these Raspberry Bars a must-try?

Simplicity makes these Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars accessible to everyone, regardless of baking experience. Irresistible flavor shines through with the sweet and tangy raspberry jam layered over a buttery crust. Versatile options abound; substitute with your favorite jams or add nuts for unique twists. Quick prep time means you can whip them up in no time, making them ideal for spontaneous summer gatherings. Crowd pleaser potential ensures these bars will disappear fast, leaving your guests asking for the recipe! Enjoy with a scoop of ice cream or fresh fruit for an elevated dessert experience!

Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars Ingredients

Unleash the sweetness with these easy treats!

For the Crust

1 cup unsalted butter – Provides a rich, buttery flavor and tender texture; can substitute with salted butter, just reduce added salt.
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour – Forms the structure of the crust; no substitutions needed to ensure perfect bars.
1 cup granulated sugar – Adds that delightful sweetness to the bars; consider brown sugar for a hint of molasses flavor if desired.
1 egg (room temperature) – Helps bind the ingredients together; a flax egg works as a plant-based alternative.

For the Filling

1 jar seedless raspberry jam (9-12 ounce) – This provides a sweet and tangy filling that’s simply irresistible; switch to other fruit jams like strawberry or blueberry for a different twist.

For the Topping

Reserved crumb mixture – The one you saved from the crust mixture adds a delightful crunch on top, ensuring every bite offers texture.

These Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars are the perfect addition to your summer dessert lineup!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking for your Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars. While the oven warms up, gather your ingredients and grease a 13×9 inch baking dish. This will create the perfect base for the delights ahead, ensuring your crust doesn’t stick.

Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 room temperature egg. Using an electric mixer on low speed, mix until the ingredients are just combined and crumbly. This mixture will serve as both your crust and topping, providing a smooth buttery base.

Step 3: Reserve for Topping
Carefully reserve 1 1/2 cups of the crumb mixture for the topping. This reserved mixture will add a delightful crunch to your Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars. Set it aside in a small bowl, keeping it handy for later as you move on to pressing the crust into the baking dish.

Step 4: Form the Crust
Take the remaining crumb mixture and evenly press it into the bottom of the greased baking dish. Use your fingers or the back of a spatula to create a smooth, even layer, making sure it’s tightly packed. This crust should look slightly golden as it bakes, providing a strong foundation for the sweet raspberry filling.

Step 5: Spread the Jam
Evenly spread the jar of seedless raspberry jam over the pressed crust. Use a spatula to ensure an even layer, reaching all corners of the dish. The raspberry jam provides a tangy sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the buttery crust, infusing each bite of the Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars with flavor.

Step 6: Add the Topping
Crumble the reserved crumb mixture over the raspberry jam layer, ensuring it evenly covers the surface. Gently press down on the topping with your hands to help it adhere during baking. This crumb topping will become deliciously golden as the bars bake, adding texture and flavor to your delightful dessert.

Step 7: Bake
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-40 minutes. Keep an eye on the oven; the topping should turn a lovely golden brown when it’s ready. Prepare to enjoy the sweet aroma wafting through your kitchen as the bars bake to perfection.

Step 8: Cool and Cut
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and set it aside to cool completely. This cooling process ensures clean cuts when you slice the bars. After they are completely cool, cut into squares or rectangles, and your Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars are ready to be served.

Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars Variations

Invite your creative side to shine as you customize these delicious raspberry bars with tempting twists!

Berry Bliss: Swap out raspberry jam for strawberry, blueberry, or even mixed berry jam for a fruity flavor explosion. Each variety brings its own charm to the bars!
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or almonds to the crumb topping for an exciting texture contrast. The nutty flavor pairs beautifully with the sweet jam, elevating each bite.
Chocolate Delight: Toss in some white chocolate or dark chocolate chips into the crumb topping for a decadent twist. Chocolate pairs wonderfully with raspberry, creating an indulgent treat.
Zesty Citrus: Stir in a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest into the crumb mixture to brighten the flavor. The zesty notes add a refreshing lift that complements the jam perfectly.
Vegan Friendly: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use coconut oil instead of butter for a plant-based alternative. This keeps the bars delicious while accommodating dietary preferences.
Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the crumb mixture for a warm spice note. It transforms your raspberry bars into a comforting treat that’s perfect for chilly days.
Gluten-Free Twist: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version that still bakes beautifully. Everyone can enjoy these tasty bars!

For even more inspiration, consider trying these incredible variations to suit your taste buds or dietary needs. Let the joy of baking be a shared experience, and remember to check out my tips on how to store and freeze your delightful creations for later enjoyment!

Make Ahead Options

These Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars are ideal for meal prep, making your busy weeknights a breeze! You can prepare the crust and topping up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine the butter, flour, sugar, and egg, then store the crumb mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The raspberry jam can also be spread over the crust at the same time for even faster results. When you’re ready to serve, just crumble the reserved topping over the jam and pop it in the oven—your dessert will be just as delicious as if it were freshly made! Enjoy the time-saving benefits and delight your family with these easy, make-ahead treats.

What to Serve with Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars

As you savor the sweet, tangy taste of these delectable bars, imagine the delightful pairings that can elevate your dessert experience.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy goodness of vanilla ice cream complements the tart raspberry jam, offering a refreshing contrast in every bite.
Fresh Berries: A medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a pop of color and freshness, enhancing the fruity flavors of the bars.
Lemon Zest Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream infused with lemon zest brightens the dessert, balancing the sweetness of the raspberry filling.
Iced Tea: Serve with a glass of chilled iced tea for a refreshing drink that complements the rich buttery flavor of the bars.
Mint Leaves: Garnish with fresh mint leaves to provide a burst of coolness, enhancing the overall dessert experience with a fragrant aroma.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling melted chocolate over the bars creates an indulgent twist, adding richness that pairs beautifully with the berry sweetness.
Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee or espresso enhances the dessert with its robust flavors, making each bite even more comforting.
Shortbread Cookies: For a delightful textural contrast, serve alongside homemade shortbread cookies, echoing the buttery notes of the raspberry bars.
Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad rounds off the meal nicely with its juicy sweetness, complementing the raspberry flavors perfectly.

Expert Tips for Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars

Softened Butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature. This aids in better mixing and creates a smoother crust for your Raspberry Bars.
Watch the Bake Time: Keep a close eye on your bars as they bake. Overbaking can lead to a hard crust instead of the perfect buttery texture you desire.
Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool fully before cutting them. This step is crucial for achieving neat, clean squares when slicing!
Easy Substitutions: Don’t hesitate to swap out jams! While raspberry is delightful, using peach or blueberry can yield equally scrumptious Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars.
Storage Tips: Store your bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer freshness, refrigerate or freeze them for a delicious treat anytime!

How to Store and Freeze Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars

Room Temperature: Store these Raspberry Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. They’ll remain deliciously soft and ready to enjoy!

Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate the bars in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Chilling will enhance the flavors and make them easy to slice.

Freezer: Freeze the bars by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reheating: If you prefer your bars warm, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will make the raspberry jam pleasantly gooey and the crumb topping crisp again!

Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars Recipe FAQs

What type of raspberry jam should I use?
You can use any seedless raspberry jam that you love, but I often recommend looking for a brand that has a vibrant color and rich flavor. If you prefer, feel free to substitute with other fruit jams such as strawberry, blueberry, or mixed berry to create exciting variations!

How should I store my raspberry bars?
Store your Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. They stay beautifully soft and ready to enjoy! For longer freshness, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

Can I freeze these bars?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw the bars in the fridge overnight.

Why is my crust too hard?
An overly hard crust often results from overbaking. Make sure to keep an eye on your Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars as they bake; a nice golden color is what you’re aiming for at the 30-40 minute mark. If you notice it browning too quickly, consider covering it loosely with aluminum foil.

Can I substitute ingredients for dietary concerns?
Yes, you can! For instance, if you’re looking for vegan options, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, set for 5 minutes). It works just as well for binding! Additionally, if you’re concerned about gluten, you can try a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend—the bars will still be scrumptiously delicious!

How can I enhance the texture of the bars?
Adding some chopped nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, to the reserved crumb mixture for the topping enhances both texture and flavor. You could also sprinkle in some chocolate chips for a delightful surprise in every bite!