Name: Raspberry Streusel Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup flour; 1/2 cup oats; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup butter, softened; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup fresh raspberries; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

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Raspberry Streusel Bars are a delightful treat that perfectly balance a sweet, buttery crust with the tart freshness of raspberries. These bars are simple to make and ideal for gatherings, dessert parties, or just a cozy night in. The crumbly streusel topping adds a pleasing texture, while the bright pop of raspberries creates a delicious burst of flavor. Whether enjoyed warm or at room temperature, these bars are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Servings: 9 bars
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 210
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 29g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 9g
Sodium: 120mg

Why Make This Raspberry Streusel Bars

These Raspberry Streusel Bars are not only easy to make, but they also deliver an inviting aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake. The combination of sweet and tart flavors makes them versatile for any occasion—whether as a brunch offering, an afternoon snack, or a dessert for a special meal. Their appealing appearance, with the vibrant pink raspberries peeking through the golden crumb topping, makes them a visual treat as well.

How to Make Raspberry Streusel Bars

Ingredients:

1 cup flour
1/2 cup oats
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup butter, softened
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup fresh raspberries
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish to ensure your bars don’t stick during baking.

Step 2: Mixing the Base

In a bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, butter, baking powder, and salt. Mix until the mixture becomes crumbly and well-blended.

Step 3: Pressing the Crust

Press half of the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This serves as your delicious base for the raspberry filling.

Step 4: Preparing the Raspberry Filling

In another bowl, mix fresh raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Gently toss to combine, ensuring that the raspberries are evenly coated. Pour this mixture over the crust, spreading it out uniform across the surface.

Step 5: Topping with Crumbs

Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the raspberry layer, creating a delightful topping that will crisp up beautifully as it bakes.

Step 6: Baking the Bars

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the raspberries are bubbling. This step can fill your kitchen with a wonderful baking scent!

Step 7: Cooling and Cutting

Allow the bars to cool in the baking dish before cutting them into squares. This helps them set properly and makes for easier serving.

How to Serve Raspberry Streusel Bars

These bars are best served at room temperature. Cut them into squares and place them on a pretty serving platter. They pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For an extra touch, sprinkle powdered sugar on top just before serving.

How to Store Raspberry Streusel Bars

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. For longer preservation, these bars freeze well; wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Expert Tips for Perfect Raspberry Streusel Bars

Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
If using frozen raspberries, do not thaw them as they may become mushy. Just add them directly to the filling mix.
To enhance flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the crumb mixture.
For a gluten-free version, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Delicious Variations

Berry Mix: Replace raspberries with a mix of berries, such as blueberries and blackberries, for a fun twist.
Citrus Taste: Add a teaspoon of orange zest to the raspberry filling for a bright, citrusy flavor.
Nuts: Incorporate chopped nuts, like walnuts or almonds, into the crumb mixture for added crunch and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, frozen raspberries can be used straight from the freezer. Just be aware they may release more juice as they bake.
Is there a non-dairy alternative for butter?
Absolutely! You can use coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute to make these bars dairy-free.
How can I make these bars healthier?
Consider substituting part of the brown sugar with a more natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup, and use whole grain flour instead of all-purpose flour.
What if I don’t have oats?
You can replace the oats with an equal amount of flour, though this may alter the texture slightly.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling slightly around the edges.

Conclusion

Raspberry Streusel Bars are a delightful combination of sweetness and tartness, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. With a crumbly, buttery base and vibrant raspberry filling, they offer a burst of flavor in every bite. The ease of preparation and versatile serving suggestions make them a must-try in your kitchen. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the joy of baking these delicious bars!