Description
These Raspberry Jam Bars combine the charm of a crumble pie in a convenient, hand-held form. Featuring a buttery oatmeal base, a luscious layer of raspberry jam, and a crumbly oat topping made from the same mixture as the base, these bars are quick, easy to make, and perfect for dessert or a snack.
Ingredients
Oatmeal Cookie Base & Crumble Topping
- 125g unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, tightly packed
- 1 large egg (55-60g / 2 oz)
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats (traditional oats, not quick, instant, or steel-cut)
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- Pinch of salt
Jam Layer
- 1 cup raspberry jam (or other flavor)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) or 180°C if using a fan-forced oven. Grease a 20cm (8-inch) metal pan with butter, then line it with parchment paper ensuring there’s an overhang for easy removal later.
- Make Oatmeal Cookie Base Mixture: Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Stir in brown sugar until the mixture is lump-free. Add the egg and mix until fully combined. Then add the flour, rolled oats, baking powder, and salt. Mix until no dry flour remains and the mixture is consistent.
- Assemble Base and Jam Layers: Take about 1 1/2 cups of the mixture and press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan using your hands to firmly create the base layer. Spread the raspberry jam over this base; if the jam is too thick, microwave it briefly to loosen it for easier spreading.
- Add Crumble Topping: Use your hands to crumble the remaining oat mixture evenly over the jam layer, covering it well.
- Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until the topping is a deep golden brown.
- Cool Completely: Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool fully in the pan, approximately 2 hours. To speed up cooling, let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, then place in the refrigerator for another 30 minutes.
- Slice and Serve: Once cooled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into 16 squares and enjoy your delicious, hand-held raspberry jam bars!
Notes
- Use traditional rolled oats, not quick or instant oats, for best texture.
- If your jam is too thick to spread easily, microwave it briefly to soften.
- Press the base firmly into the pan to create a sturdy bottom layer.
- Allow bars to cool completely before slicing to prevent crumbling.
- These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
