Chocolate Raspberry Crumb Bars Recipe

Introduction

These Chocolate Raspberry Crumb Bars are simple & delicious, featuring a buttery crust, sweet raspberry filling, and chocolate crumb topping. Perfect for any occasion, they come together easily with minimal effort. For more fruity desserts, try the Easy 3 Ingredient Raspberry Mousse Dessert Without Gelatin or classic Thumbprint Cookies Recipe.

Ingredients

These Chocolate Raspberry Crumb Bars feature a buttery crumb base and topping, rich melted chocolate, and sweet-tart raspberry preserves that create an irresistible dessert.

• 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips, divided
• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1/3 cup seedless raspberry preserves

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	30 minutes
Total Time	45 minutes

Context: These Chocolate Raspberry Crumb Bars come together about 20% faster than similar recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Crust and Topping

Combine flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Cut in cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Press two-thirds of this buttery crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a parchment-lined 9×9-inch baking pan to form an even base. Set aside the remaining crumbs for the topping.

Step 2 — Make the Raspberry Filling

In a medium saucepan, combine fresh or frozen raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the raspberries break down and the mixture thickens slightly, about 8–10 minutes.

Remove from heat and stir in cornstarch dissolved in a tablespoon of water. Return to heat for one minute, stirring constantly, until glossy and thickened. Let cool slightly.

Step 3 — Layer the Chocolate

Sprinkle an even layer of semi-sweet chocolate chips over the prepared crust in the pan. Using high-quality chocolate chips will enhance the rich chocolate flavor.

For extra decadence, you can use chopped chocolate bars instead of chips for better melting and distribution.

Step 4 — Add the Raspberry Layer

Carefully spread the slightly cooled raspberry filling over the chocolate chip layer. Use an offset spatula to create an even layer without disturbing the chocolate underneath.

Ensure the raspberry layer reaches all corners for consistent bursts of raspberry flavor in every bar.

Step 5 — Add the Crumb Topping

Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture evenly over the raspberry layer. Don’t press down—the loose crumbs will create a delightful textured topping as they bake.

For extra crunch, you can add a handful of chopped nuts or oats to the topping mixture before sprinkling.

Step 6 — Bake to Perfection

Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 35–45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the raspberry filling is bubbling around the edges.

The bars are done when the crumb topping has a light golden color and the center appears set. Avoid overbaking to maintain the chewy texture.

Step 7 — Cool Completely

Remove from oven and place the pan on a wire rack to cool completely to room temperature, about 2–3 hours. This step is crucial for clean slicing.

The chocolate layer needs time to set, and the raspberry filling will firm up as it cools, creating distinct layers in your Chocolate Raspberry Crumb Bars.

Step 8 — Chill and Slice

Step 9 — Serve and Store

For the cleanest cuts, refrigerate the cooled bars for at least 1 hour before slicing. Use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts for neat squares.

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week. These bars also freeze well for up to 3 months.

Nutritional Information

Calories	320
Protein	4g
Carbohydrates	42g
Fat	16g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	180mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Protein powder in the crust — Replace some flour with vanilla or unflavored protein powder for a boost with subtle flavor enhancement.
• Almond or coconut flour — Use a gluten-free flour blend for a nutty, lower-carb base that keeps the buttery crumb texture.
• Monk fruit or erythritol — Swap sugar with these sweeteners to reduce carbs while maintaining sweetness without spiking blood sugar.
• Coconut oil or vegan butter — Replace dairy butter for a dairy-free version that still gives a rich, crumbly layer.
• Dark chocolate chips with higher cocoa — Choose 70% or higher dark chocolate for less sugar and richer chocolate flavor.
• Reduced-sugar raspberry jam — Opt for no-sugar-added or homemade jam to cut down on sugar while keeping the fruity bursts.
• Oat flour crust — Use oat flour for a whole-grain, fiber-rich alternative with a mild, wholesome taste.
• Low-sodium baking powder — If your recipe includes leavening, use a sodium-free version to reduce overall salt content.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to complement the rich chocolate and tart raspberry flavors.
• Serve warm for a comforting dessert alongside coffee or an espresso after dinner.
• Enjoy as an elegant afternoon treat with a cup of Earl Grey tea or a glass of cold milk.
• Bring to picnics or potlucks—these bars are easy to transport and always a crowd-pleaser.
• For a festive touch, dust with powdered sugar just before serving.
• Cut into smaller squares for a bite-sized dessert option at parties or brunch gatherings.

These Chocolate Raspberry Crumb Bars have buttery crumb layers, rich chocolate and bursts of raspberry, making them a versatile choice for any occasion.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using cold butter for the crumb layer. Fix: Use room-temperature butter to create a cohesive, pressable dough that bakes into a perfect buttery crumb.
• Mistake: Overmixing the crumb layer dough. Fix: Mix just until clumps form to keep the texture tender and prevent a tough, dense base.
• Mistake: Spreading raspberry jam too thickly. Fix: Use a thin, even layer to prevent a soggy middle that can make the bars fall apart.
• Mistake: Using low-quality chocolate. Fix: Opt for high-cocoa baking chocolate to ensure a rich, deep flavor that complements the raspberry.
• Mistake: Not letting the bars cool completely before cutting. Fix: Allow them to set fully at room temperature for clean, sharp slices.
• Mistake: Baking in a dark metal pan. Fix: Use a light-colored metal or glass pan to prevent the bottom crust from over-browning.
• Mistake: Pressing the top crumb layer down too firmly. Fix: Gently sprinkle and pat it to allow steam to escape, creating a delightfully crumbly texture.
• Mistake: Skipping the parchment paper liner. Fix: Always line your pan with an overhang for easy, mess-free removal of the finished bars.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Refrigerate these Chocolate Raspberry Crumb Bars in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container or tightly wrapped for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm in a 300°F oven until heated through, ensuring the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F for food safety.

For best texture, allow frozen bars to thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

These Chocolate Raspberry Crumb Bars are the perfect treat with their buttery crumb layers, rich chocolate, and bursts of raspberry. If you loved this recipe, try our Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Crumb Cake Recipe next. Leave a comment with your results and subscribe for more delicious recipes!

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FAQs

Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh for these Chocolate Raspberry Crumb Bars?

Yes, you can use frozen raspberries without thawing them. Toss them in a little flour first to prevent excess moisture from making the filling too runny. This helps maintain the perfect texture in your Chocolate Raspberry Crumb Bars.

How should I store these Chocolate Raspberry Crumb Bars to keep them fresh?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The buttery crumb layers and chocolate stay firm when chilled, making them easy to serve cold or at room temperature.

Can I make these bars ahead of time for a party or event?

Absolutely, these Chocolate Raspberry Crumb Bars are an excellent make-ahead dessert. Bake them a day in advance and store them covered. The flavors meld together, enhancing the rich chocolate and raspberry bursts.