Raspberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars are the ultimate combination of a sweet, buttery crust, a tangy raspberry filling, and a crumbly oatmeal topping. These bars are perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a delightful dessert. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also easy to make and require simple, wholesome ingredients. Let’s dive into how you can create these irresistible bars in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Raspberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Here are a few reasons why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:

• Versatile: Enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or even a sweet breakfast treat.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
• Easy to Make: No complicated steps or special equipment required.
• Delicious: The perfect balance of sweet and tangy, with a satisfying crumbly texture.

Ingredients for Raspberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars

To make these delicious Raspberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Crust and Crumble Topping:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup old-fashioned oats
• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Raspberry Filling:

• 2 cups fresh or frozen raspberries
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Before you begin, make sure you have the following kitchen equipment on hand:

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 8×8 inch baking dish
• Parchment paper
• Spoon or spatula
• Small saucepan

How to Make Raspberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars

Follow these steps to create your delicious Raspberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars:

Preparing the Crust and Crumble Topping:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to easily lift the bars out later.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add Butter: Pour the melted butter into the dry ingredients and mix until the mixture is crumbly and well combined.
4. Press Crust: Press two-thirds of the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.

Preparing the Raspberry Filling:

1. Cook Raspberries: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the raspberries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and becomes jam-like, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Cool Filling: Remove from heat and let the raspberry filling cool slightly.

Assembling and Baking the Bars:

1. Add Filling: Spread the raspberry filling evenly over the crust in the baking dish.
2. Add Crumble Topping: Sprinkle the remaining oatmeal mixture over the top of the raspberry filling.
3. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
4. Cool: Allow the bars to cool completely in the baking dish on a wire rack. Once cool, lift the bars out using the parchment paper overhang and cut into squares.

Storing Leftovers

Raspberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars can be stored for later enjoyment. Here’s how:

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• Freezer: Wrap bars individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Tips and Variations

Here are some tips and variations to help you make the perfect Raspberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars:

• Fruit Variations: Substitute raspberries with other berries or a combination of fruits like blueberries, strawberries, or blackberries.
• Add Nuts: Stir in a handful of chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, into the crumble mixture for added crunch.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and certified gluten-free oats.
• Add Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the crumble mixture for extra flavor.

FAQ

Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen raspberries work well in this recipe. There’s no need to thaw them before cooking, but you may need to cook the filling slightly longer to account for the extra moisture.

What can I use if I don’t have lemon juice?

You can substitute lemon juice with lime juice or even orange juice for a different citrus flavor.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, these bars can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. They actually taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

How do I prevent the bars from crumbling too much when cutting?

Make sure the bars are completely cool before cutting them. Using a sharp knife and wiping it clean between cuts can also help achieve cleaner slices.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe and bake it in a 9×13 inch baking dish. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly.

Perfect Pairings

Raspberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars are delicious on their own, but here are a few pairing suggestions:

• Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla or lemon ice cream.
• Whipped Cream: Top with a dollop of freshly whipped cream.
• Tea or Coffee: Enjoy a bar with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.

Conclusion

Raspberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars are a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and buttery goodness. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a dessert to impress guests, or a tasty breakfast option, these bars fit the bill. Try making a batch today and discover the joy of homemade crumble bars. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes and tips