Five Ingredient Raspberry Shortbread Bars Recipe

If you’re on the lookout for a simple yet irresistibly tasty treat, these Five Ingredient Raspberry Shortbread Bars are an absolute must-try. They combine the buttery, crumbly goodness of classic shortbread with the sweet-tart punch of raspberry jam, creating a delightful balance that’s guaranteed to win over your taste buds. Perfect for an afternoon snack, a potluck contribution, or just a little slice of happiness after dinner, these bars capture the magic of homemade baking without the hassle of complicated steps or a long ingredient list.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Five Ingredient Raspberry Shortbread Bars lies in their simplicity. Each ingredient plays an essential role—from the buttery richness of the butter to the sweet tang of raspberry jam—coming together to create a treat that’s both delicious and straightforward.

• All-purpose flour: The backbone of our shortbread, giving it structure and that perfect crumbly texture.
• Unsalted butter: Adds luscious richness and tenderness to every bite; softened for easy mixing.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough just right while helping to create a slight crunch.
• Raspberry jam: Provides the vibrant burst of fruity flavor and beautiful color that makes these bars irresistible.
• Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.

How to Make Five Ingredient Raspberry Shortbread Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and let the ends hang over the sides—this little trick makes it so much easier to lift out your bars once they’re baked and cooled.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, granulated sugar, and all-purpose flour. Work them together until the mixture becomes crumbly but holds together when pressed. This simple dough forms the rich, tender base and crumbly topping for the bars.

Step 3: Press the Dough

Take about two-thirds of your dough and press it firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. You want an even layer that’s packed tightly to create a sturdy shortbread crust that will hold up once baked.

Step 4: Add Raspberries

Spread the raspberry jam evenly over your pressed shortbread layer. Don’t be shy—cover it generously so that each crispy bite bursts with fruity goodness and vibrant color.

Step 5: Crumble the Remaining Dough

Sprinkle the remaining one-third of your dough over the top of the raspberry layer in small crumbles. Try to distribute them evenly for a perfect balance of buttery shortbread and sweet fruit in every bite.

Step 6: Bake the Bars

Slide your pan into the preheated oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bars smell absolutely divine. The finish is a lovely buttery crunch with a fruit-filled center that’s just begging to be enjoyed.

Step 7: Cool and Cut

Let the bars cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then gently lift them out using the parchment paper overhang. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into 12 delightful bars. Patience here really pays off, ensuring clean cuts and the perfect texture.

How to Serve Five Ingredient Raspberry Shortbread Bars

Garnishes

While the bars are delicious on their own, a light dusting of powdered sugar adds a pretty touch and extra hint of sweetness. Fresh raspberries placed on top just before serving amp up the visual appeal and add a burst of natural freshness that complements the jam perfectly.

Side Dishes

If you’re serving these bars as part of a brunch or dessert spread, pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A cup of freshly brewed tea or coffee is also a charming companion that enhances the warm, buttery flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, consider stacking the bars on a pretty cake stand or arranging them in a decorative box tied with a rustic ribbon—these little touches turn a simple treat into a thoughtful gift. You can also customize the jam layer, experimenting with different fruit preserves if you’re feeling adventurous.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These bars keep beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This makes them perfect for prepping ahead of time and enjoying throughout the week or sharing with friends and family.

Freezing

If you want to extend their shelf life, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Frozen, they maintain their flavor and texture for up to two months. Just thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to indulge.

Reheating

While these bars are lovely served at room temperature, you can warm them slightly in a microwave or oven for a few seconds to give the butter a soft, melt-in-your-mouth quality. Keep an eye on them so they don’t overheat and lose their crumbly texture.

FAQs

Can I use fresh raspberries instead of jam?

Fresh raspberries can be a great substitute, but they release more moisture, which might affect the shortbread texture. To keep the bars from getting soggy, consider cooking the berries down into a thicker compote first.

What if I don’t have unsalted butter?

You can use salted butter, but reduce the additional salt slightly or omit it altogether, as salted butter adds some saltiness that could affect the balance of flavors.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suited for baking. Just be sure it includes a binding agent like xanthan gum for the best texture.

How do I get clean cuts when slicing the bars?

The key is letting them cool completely before cutting. Using a sharp knife and wiping it clean between cuts helps create neat edges and prevents crumbling.

Can I use different jam flavors?

Absolutely! While raspberry is a classic choice, blackberry, strawberry, or apricot jam work wonderfully too, each bringing a unique twist to the bars.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about the simplicity and deliciousness of these Five Ingredient Raspberry Shortbread Bars. They’re proof that with just a handful of pantry essentials and a little love, you can create a treat that feels fancy yet is incredibly easy. I encourage you to try making these bars—you’ll love how they brighten your day and bring smiles all around.

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