Raspberry Almond Bars
There’s something undeniably delightful about the combination of raspberry and almond. These Raspberry Almond Bars are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. With a buttery, crumbly base and a sweet, fruity jam filling, they are perfect for an afternoon snack, a picnic, or even dessert. The nutty flavor of the almonds beautifully complements the tartness of the raspberries, making each bite a little piece of heaven. Let’s dive in and explore how to create these scrumptious bars in your own kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Raspberry Almond Bars are a perfect treat for several reasons. First, they are simple to prepare, making them ideal for bakers of all skill levels. The ingredients are easy to find and require minimal effort to combine. Second, they are incredibly versatile; you can serve them warm, at room temperature, or even chilled. Finally, these bars are a crowd-pleaser! They are great for gatherings, parties, or just a cozy night in with a cup of tea. Trust us, once you try these bars, they will become a staple in your dessert repertoire.
Your Shopping Guide
Before you start baking, make sure you have the following ingredients on hand:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – This forms the base of your bars, providing structure and a lovely crumb.
- 6 tbsp brown sugar – Adds sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor.
- 1 cup cold butter, cut into small cubes – The key to a flaky crust; keep it cold!
- 1 egg – Binds the ingredients together.
- 1 tsp almond extract – Infuses the bars with a lovely nutty aroma.
- 1 cup seedless raspberry jam – The star of the show, bringing sweetness and tartness.
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds – For added crunch and flavor.
Tools & Equipment Needed
To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the following tools:
- Mixing bowl – For combining your dry ingredients.
- Electric mixer or whisk – To cream the butter and sugar smoothly.
- 9×13-inch baking pan – The perfect size for your bars.
- Parchment paper – To line your pan for easy removal of the bars.
- Spatula – For spreading the jam and smoothing the batter.
- Oven mitts – Safety first when handling hot pans!
Cooking Raspberry Almond Bars: The Process
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your bars bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
Line your 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. This will help you lift the bars out easily once they are baked.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and brown sugar. Whisk them together until well combined.
Step 4: Add the Butter
Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using an electric mixer or your hands, mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 5: Incorporate the Egg and Almond Extract
Add the egg and almond extract to the bowl. Mix until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want the mixture to remain crumbly.
Step 6: Reserve Some Crust for Topping
Take about one cup of the crumb mixture and set it aside. This will be used for the topping later.
Step 7: Press the Crust into the Pan
Pour the remaining crumb mixture into the prepared baking pan. Press it firmly and evenly across the bottom to form a crust.
Step 8: Spread the Raspberry Jam
Evenly spread the raspberry jam over the crust, making sure to cover it completely.
Step 9: Add the Reserved Crust and Almonds
Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture over the raspberry jam layer, followed by the sliced almonds. This will create a delightful topping that adds texture.
Step 10: Bake the Bars
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Step 11: Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out and let them cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into squares.
Allergy-Friendly Swaps
If you have specific dietary needs, consider these swaps:
- For gluten-free bars, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
- Replace the butter with a plant-based butter or coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- If you’re allergic to almonds, use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds instead of sliced almonds.
- For a lower-sugar version, use a natural sweetener like maple syrup or agave in place of brown sugar.
Chef’s Rationale
The balance of flavors and textures in these Raspberry Almond Bars is what makes them stand out. The buttery crust provides a rich base that complements the tart and sweet raspberry jam perfectly. Almond extract not only enhances the flavor but also adds a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake. The sliced almonds on top add a satisfying crunch, making each bite a delightful experience. These bars are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Save It for Later
These Raspberry Almond Bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. They also freeze beautifully! Just wrap each bar individually and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds for a warm treat.
FAQ
Can I use fresh raspberries instead of jam?
While fresh raspberries can be used, they may not provide the same sweetness and consistency as jam. If you opt for fresh raspberries, consider adding a bit of sugar to enhance their sweetness.
Can I make these bars in advance?
Absolutely! These bars can be made a day or two in advance. Just allow them to cool completely and store them in an airtight container until you’re ready to serve.
What should I serve these bars with?
These Raspberry Almond Bars pair wonderfully with a cup of tea, coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. You can also serve them with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch.
Can I substitute the almond extract?
If you’re not a fan of almond extract, you can substitute it with vanilla extract for a different flavor profile. However, keep in mind that it will change the overall taste slightly.
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That’s a Wrap
These Raspberry Almond Bars are a delicious way to enjoy the sweet and tart flavors of raspberries paired with the nutty essence of almonds. With easy-to-follow steps, you’ll be able to whip up a batch in no time. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones, these bars are sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the delightful taste of homemade Raspberry Almond Bars!
Raspberry Almond Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your bars bake evenly.
- Line your 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and brown sugar. Whisk them together until well combined.
- Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the egg and almond extract to the bowl. Mix until everything is just combined.
- Take about one cup of the crumb mixture and set it aside. This will be used for the topping later.
- Pour the remaining crumb mixture into the prepared baking pan. Press it firmly across the bottom to form a crust.
- Evenly spread the raspberry jam over the crust, covering it completely.
- Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture over the raspberry jam layer, followed by the sliced almonds.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
- Once baked, allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out and let them cool completely.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate for up to a week for longer freshness.
- Freeze individually wrapped bars for up to 3 months.
