Name: Raspberry Streusel Bars Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 3 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, melted; 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled); 3/4 cup (240g) raspberry preserves; 12-16 fresh raspberries; 1/2 cup (43g) old-fashioned whole rolled oats; 1/3 cup (70g) packed light or dark brown sugar; 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup (31g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled); 1/4 cup (4 Tbsp; 56g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed; Vanilla icing for topping

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 46 reviews

If you have a sweet tooth and a love for vibrant, fruity treats, then this Raspberry Streusel Bars Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. These bars perfectly balance a buttery, tender crust with luscious raspberry preserves, fresh berries, and a delightfully crumbly oat streusel topping. Every bite bursts with just the right amount of tartness and sweetness, making these bars a standout dessert for any occasion. Once you try this Raspberry Streusel Bars Recipe, you’ll see why it’s such a crowd-pleaser and a personal favorite to whip up again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two square dessert bars stacked on top of each other on a white marbled surface, with fresh red raspberries placed nearby. Each bar has three layers: a pale, smooth bottom crust; a thick, dark red raspberry jam filling in the middle with visible seeds and a slightly shiny texture; and a crumbly oat topping mixed with light brown chunks and drizzled with a white glaze. The texture of the topping looks crunchy and rough, contrasting with the smooth jam and crust. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward, yet each one plays a crucial role in building the perfect Raspberry Streusel Bars Recipe. From the rich melted butter that creates the tender crust, to the fresh raspberries that add vibrant color and tart flavor, every component works harmoniously.

Unsalted butter, melted (1/2 cup / 113g): Provides richness and a tender base for the crust and streusel.
Granulated sugar (1/4 cup / 50g): Adds sweetness to the crust, balancing the tart raspberries.
Pure vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances flavor depth with warm, aromatic notes.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Brings out the flavors and balances the sweetness.
All-purpose flour (1 cup + 1/4 cup / 125g + 31g): The backbone of both crust and streusel for structure and texture.
Raspberry preserves (3/4 cup / 240g): The fruity heart of the bars, delivering sweet-tart layers.
Fresh raspberries (12-16): Adds natural juiciness, bursts of freshness, and vibrant color.
Old-fashioned rolled oats (1/2 cup / 43g): Creates that irresistible crumbly texture in the streusel topping.
Light or dark brown sugar (1/3 cup / 70g): Gives the streusel a caramel-like richness and moisture.
Ground cinnamon (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a subtle warmth that enhances the oat streusel’s flavor.
Cold unsalted butter, cubed (1/4 cup / 56g): Essential for making the streusel crumbly and flaky.
Vanilla icing (optional): A delightful drizzle that adds sweetness and a pretty finishing touch.

How to Make Raspberry Streusel Bars Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (149°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, making sure there’s extra hanging over the sides for easy removal later. This simple step ensures your bars don’t stick and lift out flawlessly when they’re done.

Step 2: Craft the Buttery Crust

In a medium bowl, stir together the melted butter, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined. Then gently fold in 1 cup of all-purpose flour until the mixture forms a soft dough. Press this evenly into the bottom of your lined pan—it’s the foundation that will hold all your delicious layers together. Pop it into the oven and bake for 15 minutes, allowing the crust to set beautifully.

Step 3: Add the Raspberry Layer

Once the crust is warm and just out of the oven, increase the oven temperature to 350°F (177°C). Spread the raspberry preserves evenly over the crust’s surface, then artfully dot it with fresh raspberries. This layering is the star of the Raspberry Streusel Bars Recipe, marrying smooth jam richness with fresh berry juiciness.

Step 4: Make the Crunchy Streusel Topping

In a separate bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and remaining 1/4 cup of flour. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry blender, two forks, or your fingers until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. Sprinkle this crumble generously over the raspberry layer. Bake again for 30 to 35 minutes, until your streusel turns golden brown and the raspberry filling bubbles invitingly around the edges.

Step 5: Cool and Chill

Remove the bars from the oven and let them cool at room temperature for about 20 minutes. Then transfer the whole pan to the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or even overnight. This chilling step helps the bars firm up, making them easier to slice into perfect squares. Use the parchment overhang to lift the block from the pan and cut into 12 to 16 bars. For an extra special touch, drizzle vanilla icing on top, and get ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Raspberry Streusel Bars Recipe

The image shows two square raspberry dessert bars stacked on a white plate with small raised dots on the edge. Each bar has three layers: a pale yellow bottom layer with a smooth texture, a middle layer of bright red raspberries with juicy chunks, and a top layer of crumbly golden oat streusel sprinkled with a light glaze that shines slightly. A small silver fork holds a bite-sized piece of the dessert on the right side of the plate. A fresh green mint leaf and a whole raspberry sit next to the bars. In the blurry background, a larger piece of the same dessert and two raspberries rest on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your Raspberry Streusel Bars Recipe, fresh garnishes make all the difference. A few extra fresh raspberries scattered on top or a light dusting of powdered sugar add elegance and a pop of color. For a richer bite, a small dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates wonderful creaminess against the fruity tartness.

Side Dishes

Raspberry Streusel Bars pair beautifully with light sides that won’t compete with their flavor. Consider serving alongside a fresh green salad with tangy vinaigrette for a delightful contrast, or a cup of your favorite tea or coffee to warm you up. These bars also shine as an afternoon treat or dessert after a cozy dinner.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not turn these bars into mini parfaits? Layer chunks of Raspberry Streusel Bars Recipe with whipped cream and fresh berries in individual glasses for a charming presentation. Alternatively, serving the bars on a rustic wooden board with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of toasted almonds adds texture and flair, guaranteed to impress guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once baked, Raspberry Streusel Bars Recipe stores beautifully. Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This helps maintain their structure and flavor, making them a fantastic make-ahead dessert when you want to save time.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these bars later, freezing is a great option. Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They freeze well for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply leave them in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours before serving.

Reheating

Enjoy your Raspberry Streusel Bars Recipe warm by reheating them in the oven at 300°F (149°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes. This revives the crispiness of the streusel and warms the raspberry filling just right. Avoid the microwave as it can make the streusel soggy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh ones?

Absolutely! Frozen raspberries work in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to prevent excess moisture that could make the bars soggy.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and confirm your oats are certified gluten-free. This tweak allows everyone to enjoy the Raspberry Streusel Bars Recipe safely.

Can I use other fruit preserves instead of raspberry?

Definitely. While raspberry preserves shine here, you can switch things up with strawberry, blueberry, or even apricot preserves for a delicious twist on the classic bars.

Do I need to chill the bars before cutting them?

Chilling helps the bars set and makes slicing neater and easier. While you can cut them warm, the bars will be softer and less tidy, so patience is rewarded here.

How long do these bars last at room temperature?

It’s best to keep them refrigerated because of the fruit preserves and fresh berries. At room temperature, they’re good for up to one day, but refrigeration keeps them fresh longer and safer to eat.

Final Thoughts

Making this Raspberry Streusel Bars Recipe is a true joy — from the simple, wholesome ingredients to the bright, satisfying flavors in every bite. Whether you’re baking for friends, family, or just treating yourself, these bars bring a cozy sweetness and a burst of fruity happiness. Don’t wait to try this recipe; once you do, it’s sure to become a trusted staple in your baking repertoire.