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Raspberry crumb bars are one of those nostalgic, homey treats that feel like a warm hug in dessert form. With their golden, buttery crust, tangy raspberry center, and sweet crumb topping, these bars are the perfect combination of texture and flavor. They’re sweet but not too sweet, rich without being heavy, and versatile enough for picnics, lunchboxes, bake sales, or even elegant dessert platters.
In this post, you’ll find a complete breakdown of how to make the perfect raspberry crumb bars, tips for substitutions, variations to try, nutrition information, and answers to common questions. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or treating yourself to something special, this recipe is guaranteed to delight.
Why You’ll Love These Raspberry Crumb Bars
Bursting with Real Raspberry Flavor
Fresh or frozen raspberries create a vibrant, tangy-sweet filling that beautifully balances the rich, buttery base and crumble. Their natural tartness enhances the flavor without being overpowering, making every bite refreshing and bright.
Easy to Make from Scratch
You don’t need any fancy tools or special skills to make these. A bowl, a spatula, and your hands are all you need. The dough doubles as both the base and topping, which keeps the process simple but effective.
Made with Pantry Staples
Most of the ingredients—like flour, sugar, butter, and eggs—are kitchen basics. That makes this recipe an ideal last-minute bake when you want something homemade but easy.
Easily Adaptable
These bars are a great canvas for creativity. Switch out the raspberries for other fruits, make them gluten-free or vegan, or add spices, citrus zest, or chocolate for a fun twist.
For those interested in nourishing and energizing treats made with whole, functional ingredients, The Encyclopedia of Power Foods includes hundreds of recipes just like this—simple, delicious, and good for you.
Ingredients
This recipe yields approximately 16 bars. Use an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch pan depending on how thick you like your bars.
For the Crust and Topping
2½ cups all-purpose flour
¾ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup packed light brown sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
1 large egg
For the Raspberry Filling
3 cups fresh or frozen raspberries
⅓ cup granulated sugar
1½ tablespoons cornstarch (or arrowroot powder)
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, but adds brightness)
If you’re using frozen berries, no need to thaw them—just increase the baking time by 3 to 5 minutes.
Read More: Homemade Plum Jam Recipe
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides to help lift the bars out later. Lightly grease the parchment for easier removal.
Step 2: Make the Crumb Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the dry ingredients. The mixture should resemble coarse, sandy crumbs.
Add the vanilla extract and crack in the egg. Use a fork or your hands to mix everything until it holds together in clumps but is still crumbly. Don’t overwork the dough—it should be loose, not like traditional cookie dough.
This same mixture will be used for both the base and the topping, making preparation quicker and cleaner.
Step 3: Create the Bottom Crust
Take about two-thirds of the crumb dough and press it firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Use your fingers or the bottom of a flat measuring cup to smooth and compact it evenly.
Step 4: Mix the Raspberry Filling
In a medium bowl, gently combine the raspberries, sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest (if using), and cornstarch. Stir just enough to coat the berries evenly and dissolve the sugar slightly. The cornstarch will help thicken the filling as it bakes.
If you’re using frozen raspberries, expect a slightly more jam-like texture due to the moisture content. That’s perfectly fine—and just as delicious.
Step 5: Assemble the Bars
Spread the raspberry mixture evenly over the base layer. Then sprinkle the remaining crumb dough over the top, breaking it into small, uneven clumps for a rustic, bakery-style appearance.
Make sure to cover the berries well, but allow some of the vibrant fruit color to peek through the topping.
Step 6: Bake
Bake the bars for 38 to 42 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling at the edges. If using frozen berries, bake an additional 5 minutes.
Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. For the cleanest slices, refrigerate for at least one hour before cutting.
The Encyclopedia of Power Foods explains how different fruits react to baking and includes tips on maximizing the nutritional value of seasonal produce in recipes like this.
Helpful Tips and Substitutions
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter and replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2½ tablespoons water, rested for 5 minutes).
Lower Sugar: Reduce total sugar by up to ¼ cup if using very sweet berries or for a lighter flavor.
Add Texture: Add chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds to the topping for extra crunch.
Make it Citrus-Forward: Add orange zest instead of lemon for a different flavor profile.
Read More: Easy Homemade Apricot Jam Recipe
Recipe Variations to Try
Mixed Berry Crumb Bars: Replace half the raspberries with blueberries, blackberries, or chopped strawberries.
Chocolate Raspberry Bars: Stir mini chocolate chips into the topping for a decadent twist.
Raspberry Almond Bars: Add ½ teaspoon almond extract to the dough and scatter sliced almonds on top.
Spiced Raspberry Bars: Add a pinch of cinnamon or ground ginger to the crumb mixture for warmth.
For even more variations that help balance taste and nutrition, explore the customizable meal ideas found in The Encyclopedia of Power Foods—a must-have for every modern kitchen.
Nutritional Information
(Per Serving, Based on 16 Bars)
Calories: 210
Total Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Sugars: 14g
Protein: 2.5g
Fiber: 2g
Vitamin C: 10% of daily value
Iron: 5% of daily value
These bars offer more than just comfort—they provide a modest source of fiber and antioxidants thanks to the raspberries.
Read More: Top 10 Fresh Peach Recipes
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Storing the Bars
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze in layers with parchment between bars for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.
How to Serve
Serve chilled for clean, firm bars, or slightly warm for a more gooey experience.
Excellent when paired with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
For breakfast, try serving a bar alongside plain Greek yogurt for a sweet-and-savory contrast.
These bars are also wonderful for lunchboxes, brunch buffets, or as part of a dessert table for gatherings.
For more ideas on serving nutrient-packed dishes across all meals, flip through The Encyclopedia of Power Foods—it’s a resource you’ll turn to time and again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use raspberry jam instead of fresh raspberries?
Yes, you can substitute with about 1 to 1¼ cups of raspberry jam. Skip the sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Note that the filling will be smoother and sweeter, with less texture.
Can I use other fruits?
Absolutely. Blueberries, blackberries, or diced peaches work beautifully. Just adjust the sugar depending on the sweetness of the fruit.
Why is my crumb topping too dry or too wet?
Make sure the butter is cold and cut into cubes before mixing. If the topping feels too dry, add a teaspoon of water. If too wet, add a tablespoon of flour.
How do I cut clean bars?
Cool the bars completely and refrigerate for at least an hour before cutting. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between slices.
Conclusion
Raspberry crumb bars are the kind of dessert that never goes out of style—comforting, easy to make, and incredibly satisfying. With just a handful of pantry staples and vibrant berries, you can whip up a dessert that feels both nostalgic and gourmet. Whether you enjoy them as an afternoon snack, share them at gatherings, or savor them with your morning coffee, these bars are always a hit.
So the next time you’re craving something sweet and homemade, remember these raspberry crumb bars—and the endless possibilities waiting in your pantry.
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