Five Ingredient Raspberry Shortbread Bars Recipe

Heavenly Five Ingredient Raspberry Shortbread Bars Recipe

Raspberry shortbread bars spark pure dessert magic with minimal ingredients and maximum flavor.

Buttery crumbs melt into sweet-tart berry landscapes that dance across your palate.

Sweet simplicity defines this classic treat, promising delightful moments of indulgence.

Crisp edges and soft centers create textural symphonies that beckon you closer.

Each bite whispers comfort and nostalgia, inviting memories of warm kitchens and gentle baking rhythms.

Rich, golden shortbread cradles vibrant raspberry jewels like a delicate embrace.

Delectable and uncomplicated, these bars will become your new favorite sweet companion.

Simple Five Ingredient Raspberry Shortbread Bars

  • Craft Quick Dessert: Perfect for busy home bakers seeking a simple yet delightful sweet treat with minimal ingredients and straightforward preparation.
  • Minimal Ingredient Magic: Requires just five ingredients, making this recipe budget-friendly and accessible for cooks of all skill levels without overwhelming shopping lists.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Versatility: Ideal for potlucks, family gatherings, or casual dessert moments where you want something impressive yet uncomplicated that everyone will love.
  • Kid-Friendly Baking Project: Offers an excellent opportunity for children to help in the kitchen, with simple mixing and spreading tasks that create delicious results.

Ingredients for Raspberry Shortbread Bars

Base Ingredients:
  • Flour: A key component that provides structure and texture to the shortbread bars.
  • Butter: Adds richness and creates a tender, crumbly base for the dessert.
  • Sugar: Brings sweetness and helps in achieving a golden color during baking.
  • Egg: Binds the ingredients together and contributes to the bar's cohesive texture.
Filling Ingredient:
  • Raspberry Jam: A seedless spread that delivers a vibrant fruity flavor and moisture to the dessert.
Baking Essentials:
  • Oven, Baking Dish: Essential tools for creating the perfectly baked shortbread bars with a golden-brown finish.

Instructions to Prepare Raspberry Shortbread Bars

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, getting it ready for delicious magic.

Step 2: Mix the Base Ingredients

Grab your electric mixer and blend together:
  • Butter
  • Flour
  • Sugar
  • Egg

Whirl these ingredients on low speed until they create a crumbly texture.

Set aside 1½ cups of this mixture for the topping.

Step 3: Create the Crust Foundation

Press the remaining mixture into a 13 x 9 inch baking pan.

Smooth it out to create an even, solid base that will support your fruity masterpiece.

Step 4: Spread the Raspberry Love

Open your jar of seedless raspberry jam and generously spread it across the crust.

Make sure every inch is covered with that vibrant, sweet goodness.

Step 5: Sprinkle the Crumbly Topping

Take the reserved mixture from earlier and crumble it evenly over the jam layer.

Gently press down to help the topping stick.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes.

Watch for a beautiful golden-brown color that signals these bars are ready to rock.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Let the bars cool completely before cutting.

This patience ensures clean, perfect slices that will make everyone’s mouth water. Slice, serve, and enjoy the raspberry shortbread bliss!

Tips for Raspberry Shortbread Bars

  • Chill the reserved crumb mixture for 15 minutes before sprinkling over jam to create a more structured topping and prevent soggy results.
  • Select high-quality seedless raspberry jam with minimal added sugars for a more authentic, intense fruit flavor that complements the buttery shortbread base.
  • Cut bars while completely cool to prevent crumbling and achieve clean, precise edges that showcase the layered texture.
  • Try alternative jam flavors like apricot or strawberry for unique variations that maintain the recipe's simple, delightful character.
  • Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, separating layers with parchment paper to preserve their delicate texture and prevent sticking.

Variations of Raspberry Shortbread Bars

  • Gluten-Free Raspberry Bars: Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour or gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly version.
  • Vegan Raspberry Shortbread: Swap butter with coconut oil and use a flax egg instead of regular egg, maintaining the classic bar texture.
  • Low-Sugar Raspberry Treat: Use sugar-free raspberry preserves and substitute sugar with stevia or monk fruit sweetener for a diabetic-friendly option.
  • Nutty Raspberry Crumble: Incorporate chopped almonds or pecans into the crumble topping for added crunch and nutty flavor profile.

Pairing Suggestions with Raspberry Shortbread Bars

  • Scoop a cold, rich vanilla ice cream alongside the warm raspberry shortbread bars to create a delightful temperature and flavor contrast.
  • Brew a light, soothing chamomile tea that balances the sweet and tangy raspberry notes, offering a gentle and relaxing drinking experience.
  • Select a crisp, slightly sweet sparkling rosé that echoes the fruity raspberry essence and provides an elegant adult beverage pairing.
  • Top the bars with a dollop of smooth, luxurious mascarpone cream to add a silky texture and subtle richness that elevates the dessert's overall taste profile.

Storage Advice for Raspberry Shortbread Bars

  • Refrigerate: Store cooled raspberry shortbread bars in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
  • Freeze: Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe container. Freeze for maximum 3 months. Label with date for easy tracking.
  • Thaw Refrigerator Method: Transfer frozen bars from freezer to refrigerator overnight. Let them come to room temperature naturally before serving.
  • Reheating: Warm bars gently in microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes. Avoid overheating to maintain texture and prevent jam from bubbling excessively.

FAQs

  • Can I use a different type of jam instead of raspberry?

Yes, you can substitute raspberry jam with other flavors like strawberry, apricot, or blueberry. Choose a seedless jam for the best texture and appearance.

  • Do I need any special baking equipment for this recipe?

No, you just need a standard 13 x 9 inch baking dish, an electric mixer, and basic measuring tools. Most home kitchens already have these items.

  • How do I know when the bars are perfectly baked?

Look for a golden brown color on the crumble topping. The edges should also appear slightly crisp and the top should look set, which typically occurs between 30-40 minutes of baking.

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Five Ingredient Raspberry Shortbread Bars Recipe

Five Ingredient Raspberry Shortbread Bars Recipe


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4.8 from 20 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 16 1x

Description

Delightful raspberry shortbread bars offer a simple yet elegant dessert from Scottish baking traditions. Buttery layers and tangy fruit create a perfect balance for sweet cravings you’ll savor with each delectable bite.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
  • 1 egg (brought to room temperature)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 jar seedless raspberry jam (9 to 12 oz / 255 to 340 g)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F, preparing a 13 x 9 inch baking dish with light greasing.
  2. Using an electric mixer, blend butter, flour, sugar, and egg on low speed until the mixture transforms into a delicate, crumbly texture.
  3. Separate and set aside 1½ cups of the crumbly mixture for the topping, reserving it for later use.
  4. Transfer the remaining mixture into the prepared baking dish, firmly pressing and distributing evenly to create a smooth, compact base layer.
  5. Carefully spread the entire seedless raspberry jam across the crust, ensuring a uniform coverage from edge to edge.
  6. Sprinkle the reserved crumbly mixture over the jam layer, gently pressing down to create a rustic, textured topping.
  7. Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, monitoring until the surface develops a rich, golden-brown coloration.
  8. Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, which helps them set and makes cutting easier.
  9. Once thoroughly cooled, slice into square or rectangular bars and serve.

Notes

  • Ensure butter is at room temperature for easier mixing and smoother texture in the shortbread base.
  • Use seedless raspberry jam to prevent unwanted seeds and achieve a silky, uniform spread across the bars.
  • Consider chilling the crumble topping for 15 minutes before sprinkling to help maintain a more defined, crisp texture during baking.
  • Swap raspberry jam with other fruit preserves like apricot, strawberry, or blueberry for delightful flavor variations and personalized touch.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 16
  • Calories: 217
  • Sugar: 11 g
  • Sodium: 37 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 26 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 25 mg
Clara Bennett

Clara Bennett

Contributing Recipe Developer & Food Writer

Expertise

Baking and Pastry Development, Gluten-Free and Allergy-Friendly Recipe Creation, Culinary Storytelling and Food Journalism, Recipe Testing and Standardization, Southern Comfort Foods and Modern Twists

Education

Sullivan University – National Center for Hospitality Studies
Associate Degree in Culinary Arts

Focus: Baking and Pastry Arts, Recipe Testing, and Culinary Journalism.

Clara specialized in crafting desserts that blend classic Southern comfort with modern techniques, while developing strong writing skills to tell the story behind every dish.

Lane Community College (Certificate Program)
Certificate in Food Writing and Photography

Focus: Culinary storytelling, recipe formatting, food styling, and visual presentation.


Clara’s love of baking started young, powered by homemade pies, biscuits, and stories passed around the family table.
After earning her degree at Sullivan University and a food writing certificate at Lane Community College, she turned her passion into a craft: sharing recipes that are simple, soulful, and always full of heart.
She’s big on bold flavors, flexible ideas, and creating sweets that fit any table (yes, even if you’re gluten-free). When she’s not baking, you’ll find her wandering farmers’ markets, styling food for the next photo shoot, or working on her ever-growing recipe journal.

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