These simple raspberry jam crumble bars have a buttery, crumbly base smothered in a layer of sweet and tangy raspberry preserves, topped with even more crumbly goodness.

These bars have the perfect balance of flavors and textures, making each bite sweet, tangy, and crunchy. You won’t be able to eat just one.

The Simplicity of Raspberry Jam Crumble Bars

One of the best things about raspberry jam crumble bars is how simple they are to make. You’re going to be amazed at how just a few basic ingredients can come together to create something so incredibly delicious. This recipe calls for:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled)
• 3/4 cup brown sugar (light or dark, I used dark for the added carmel-y flavor)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup rolled oats (not quick-cooking)
• 1 heaping cup of raspberry preserves

The Taste of These Bars

Imagine biting into a crumbly yet soft, buttery crust with a slight hint of vanilla. The first layer gives way to the main attraction, a generous spread of sweet and slightly tangy raspberry preserves. The top is sprinkled with even more crumbles, providing the perfect contrast in texture and flavor.

Every bite is a delightful balance of sweet and buttery with a burst of fruity goodness. This is the type of dessert that’s hard to resist, and you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds…or thirds.

How to Make Raspberry Jam Crumble Bars

The process of making these bars is as enjoyable as eating them haha. Here’s a step-by-step guide (more details can be found in the recipe card below):

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees and line an 8 x 8 pan with parchment paper or grease with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
2. In a large glass (microwave safe) bowl, melt the 1/2 cup of unsalted butter and allow it to cool slightly.
3. Add the 3/4 cup of brown sugar, 1 tsp of vanilla extract, and 1/2 tsp of sea salt to the melted butter, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture is nice and smooth.
4. Stir in 1 cup of all-purpose flour and 3/4 cup of rolled oats and mix until it’s even and well combined.
5. Reserve 1/2 cup of the oat mixture for the topping. Press the remaining oats into the bottom of the greased baking pan, patting it smooth.

6. Cover the oats with 1 heaping cup of raspberry preserves. Using the back side of a spoon, spread the preserves around evenly. The jam should be about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick.
7. Sprinkle the reserved 1/2 cup of oats in crumbles evenly over the jam.
8. Bake for 25 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through for even baking.
9. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan, then carefully slice and serve.

Storing Your Jam Bars

If you manage to have any Raspberry Jam Crumble Bars left, here’s how to store them to keep them fresh and delicious. To extend their shelf life, store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

If you want to keep them around for a longer period of time, refrigerate them for up to a week. Or, you can freeze them, tightly wrapped in an airtight container or Ziplock bag, for up to 3 months. However, I doubt they’ll last that long, haha!

Customizing Raspberry Jam Crumble Bars

While these bars are heavenly on their own, you can always get creative with them. Here are some of my favorite ideas…

• Nuts: Chopped almonds, walnuts, or pecans can be mixed into the crumbly base for a delightful crunch.
• Citrus Zest: Adding a bit of lemon or orange zest to the base can provide a refreshing citrus note to complement the raspberry jam.
• Spices: A pinch of cinnamon or a dash of nutmeg in the crumb mixture can give the bars a warm and cozy flavor.
• Chocolate: For a sweeter twist, consider adding chocolate chips or chunks into the base or as a drizzle on top.

Raspberry jam crumble bars are a simple treat you can make in no time. Their sweet, buttery, and fruity flavor is irresistible, and the crumbly texture adds a lovely contrast. So, the next time you’re in the mood for an easy and mouthwatering dessert, give this easy recipe a try. Just be prepared to share because they’re so good that everyone will want one.