Chocolate Raspberry Crumb Bars

Chocolate Raspberry Crumb Bars are a delicious combination of buttery crumb crust, a layer of tangy raspberry filling, and a rich chocolate topping. These bars are easy to make, perfect for parties, or as a special dessert to enjoy with a cup of coffee. The sweet, tart raspberries and smooth chocolate make every bite irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and rich flavors. The buttery, crumbly crust pairs beautifully with the raspberry filling, and the chocolate drizzle on top adds a decadent touch. These bars are simple to make and perfect for anyone who loves the combination of chocolate and fruit!

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

• 1 large egg

For the Raspberry Filling:

• 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen raspberries

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for extra tang)

For the Chocolate Drizzle:

• 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Raspberry Filling:

1. In a small saucepan, combine the raspberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice (if using). Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and the raspberries break down, about 5-7 minutes.

2. Remove from heat and set aside to cool while you prepare the crust.

2. Make the Crust:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, oats, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

3. Stir in the egg until just combined.

4. Press half of the dough mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form a crust. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden.

3. Assemble the Bars:

1. Once the crust is done baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly for about 5 minutes.

2. Spread the cooled raspberry filling evenly over the crust.

3. Crumble the remaining dough over the raspberry filling, creating a crumbly topping.

4. Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

4. Make the Chocolate Drizzle:

1. While the bars are baking, melt the chocolate chips and butter together in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals, stirring in between until completely smooth.

2. Once the bars have finished baking, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan.

5. Serve:

1. Once the bars are completely cooled, drizzle the melted chocolate over the top of the bars.

2. Let the chocolate set for about 15-20 minutes before cutting into squares or bars.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 16 bars. Prep time is about 15 minutes, bake time is 35-40 minutes, and cooling time is about 30 minutes, so total time is around 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Variations

I like to:

• Use a combination of fresh raspberries and other berries, like blackberries or blueberries, for a mixed berry filling.

• Add a pinch of cinnamon to the crust for a warm, spiced flavor.

• Use white chocolate chips for a different chocolate topping.

Storage/Reheating

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. You can also refrigerate them for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months. Let frozen bars thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can make them a day or two ahead of time. Just let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container.

Can I use a different fruit for the filling?
Yes, you can substitute raspberries with strawberries, blackberries, or even a combination of berries. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness based on the fruit you choose.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and use gluten-free oats for a gluten-free version of this recipe.

Can I skip the chocolate drizzle?
While the chocolate drizzle adds a decadent touch, you can skip it if you prefer a lighter dessert. You could also sprinkle some powdered sugar on top for a simpler finish.

Conclusion

Chocolate Raspberry Crumb Bars are the perfect dessert for any occasion. The sweet, tart raspberry filling and the crumbly, buttery crust are a winning combination, and the chocolate drizzle adds the perfect touch of decadence. These bars are easy to make, beautifully delicious, and sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them!

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