A Sweet and Simple Treat for Any Occasion
If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor, these Raspberry Oatmeal Cookie Bars are the perfect choice! With a buttery oat crust, a sweet raspberry jam filling, and a crumbly topping, these bars strike the perfect balance between chewy and crispy. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a holiday treat, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe is a must-try!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make – Requires just a few simple ingredients.
- Perfect for any occasion – Great for breakfast, snack time, or dessert.
- Customizable – Swap the jam flavor or add mix-ins to create your own twist.
- Minimal cleanup – Uses just one bowl and a baking pan!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup butter, softened
- ¾ cup seedless raspberry jam
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Baking Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch square pan and line it with greased foil. This helps with easy removal and cleanup later.
2. Make the Oat Mixture
In a large bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Using a pastry blender or your hands, rub in the butter until the mixture becomes crumbly.
3. Form the Crust
Press 2 cups of the oat mixture into the bottom of your prepared pan, creating an even layer.
4. Spread the Raspberry Jam
Evenly spread ¾ cup of raspberry jam over the crust, stopping about ¼ inch from the edges.
5. Add the Crumb Topping
Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the jam layer and gently press it down.
6. Bake the Bars
Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is lightly browned.
7. Cool and Slice
Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing into squares. This helps them set properly and makes for cleaner cuts.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Pastry blender or hands
- 8×8-inch baking pan
- Foil (optional, for easy removal)
- Spatula
- Knife for slicing
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Keep in a sealed container for up to a week.
- Freezer: Wrap bars individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Jam Swaps: Swap raspberry jam for strawberry, blueberry, or apricot jam.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
- Vegan-Friendly: Replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter.
- Add Some Crunch: Mix in chopped nuts or coconut flakes for extra texture.
- Spice It Up: Add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon to the oat mixture for a warm flavor boost.
Pairing Suggestions
These bars pair wonderfully with:
- A cup of hot coffee or tea for a cozy treat.
- Vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
- A glass of cold milk for a classic pairing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh raspberries instead of jam?
While jam works best for this recipe, you can make a fresh raspberry filling by cooking 1 cup of raspberries with ¼ cup sugar over low heat until it thickens.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Use a 9×13-inch pan and double all ingredients. Bake for the same amount of time or until golden brown.
How do I keep the bars from crumbling?
Let them cool completely before slicing. You can also refrigerate them for firmer bars.
Final Thoughts
These Raspberry Oatmeal Cookie Bars are a perfect mix of fruity, buttery, and crunchy goodness! Whether you’re baking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this simple yet delicious treat is sure to impress.
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