Chocolate Raspberry Crumb Bars Recipe

Introduction

These easy chocolate raspberry bars are the perfect quick dessert with just 5 minutes of prep time. A buttery crumb base and topping sandwich a sweet raspberry layer with rich chocolate chips. For more decadent chocolate treats, try this Moist Chocolate Cake with Strawberries Recipe or this These Chocolate Raspberry Crumb Bars Recipe.

Ingredients

These decadent bars feature a buttery shortbread base, rich chocolate filling, and sweet raspberry swirl that creates an irresistible contrast of flavors and textures.

• 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
• 1 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
• ⅓ cup seedless raspberry preserves

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	35 minutes
Total Time	50 minutes

Context: These Chocolate Raspberry Crumb Bars come together about 20% faster than similar recipes thanks to the straightforward assembly method.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare Your Pan and Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two opposite sides for easy removal later.

Step 2 — Make the Crumb Base and Topping

In a large bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, ½ cup granulated sugar, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Cut in ½ cup cold, cubed unsalted butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Reserve 1 cup of the crumb mixture for the topping. Press the remaining crumbs firmly and evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan.

Step 3 — Pre-Bake the Crust

Bake the crust for 15 minutes until the edges are just beginning to turn lightly golden. This partial baking helps prevent a soggy bottom in your finished Chocolate Raspberry Crumb Bars.

Step 4 — Prepare the Raspberry Filling

While the crust bakes, stir together 1 cup raspberry jam or preserves and 1 tablespoon lemon juice in a small bowl. If using fresh raspberries, mash 1 ½ cups with ¼ cup sugar and 1 tablespoon cornstarch until well combined.

Step 5 — Assemble the Layers

Once the crust is out of the oven, spread the raspberry filling evenly over the warm base. Sprinkle ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the raspberry layer.

Crumble the reserved topping mixture over the chocolate and raspberry layers, covering as much surface as possible.

Step 6 — Bake the Chocolate Raspberry Crumb Bars

Return the pan to the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the raspberry filling is bubbly around the edges.

Step 7 — Cool Completely Before Cutting

Place the pan on a wire rack and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan—this is crucial for clean slices and can take 2–3 hours. For faster setting, you can refrigerate them once they reach room temperature.

Step 8 — Slice and Serve

Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the entire block of Chocolate Raspberry Crumb Bars from the pan. Transfer to a cutting board and slice into squares using a sharp knife.

For neat cuts, wipe the knife clean between slices. Serve at room temperature or slightly chilled.

Nutritional Information

Calories	280
Protein	4g
Carbohydrates	38g
Fat	14g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	150mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Protein powder — Replace ¼ cup flour with vanilla or chocolate protein powder for a protein boost while maintaining the crumb texture.
• Almond flour — Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free, lower-carb version with nutty flavor notes.
• Coconut oil — Swap butter for coconut oil to make these Chocolate Raspberry Crumb Bars dairy-free while adding subtle tropical notes.
• Monk fruit sweetener — Replace granulated sugar with monk fruit sweetener to reduce carbs and calories without sacrificing sweetness.
• Low-sodium baking powder — Use low-sodium baking powder to reduce sodium content while maintaining proper rise and texture.
• Chia seed jam — Make raspberry filling with chia seeds and fresh berries instead of store-bought jam for lower sugar and added fiber.
• Oat flour — Substitute all-purpose flour with oat flour for a gluten-free option that adds heart-healthy whole grains.
• Dark chocolate chips — Use sugar-free dark chocolate chips instead of regular chocolate for reduced sugar content with rich chocolate flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with vanilla bean ice cream for a classic dessert combination
• Serve alongside coffee or espresso for an afternoon treat
• Accompany with fresh raspberries and mint sprigs for garnish
• Enjoy with a glass of cold milk for a comforting snack
• Cut into smaller pieces for party finger food or dessert platters
• Warm briefly in the microwave and top with whipped cream

These Chocolate Raspberry Crumb Bars are versatile enough for casual snacking yet elegant enough for special occasions. The rich chocolate and tart raspberry flavors complement both warm and cold beverages beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using cold butter for the crumb layer. Fix: Ensure butter is softened to room temperature for a proper sandy, cohesive texture that holds together.
• Mistake: Overmixing the crust and topping dough. Fix: Mix just until combined to avoid developing gluten, which makes the crumb tough instead of tender.
• Mistake: Spreading raspberry jam too close to the edges. Fix: Leave a small border to prevent the jam from bubbling over and sticking to the pan during baking.
• Mistake: Not chilling the assembled bars before baking. Fix: Chill for 15-20 minutes to firm up the butter, which helps the layers stay distinct and prevents spreading.
• Mistake: Cutting the Chocolate Raspberry Crumb Bars while they are still warm. Fix: Let them cool completely in the pan for clean, sharp cuts that won’t smoosh the filling.
• Mistake: Using a thin, runny raspberry jam. Fix: Opt for a thick preserves or jam to prevent a soggy bottom layer and ensure a firm set.
• Mistake: Pressing the bottom crust down too firmly. Fix: Press gently to create a base that is compact but still slightly crumbly for the ideal texture.
• Mistake: Baking in a glass or dark metal pan without adjusting. Fix: If using these pans, reduce oven temperature by 25°F to prevent the bottom from over-browning.
• Mistake: Skipping the parchment paper sling. Fix: Line the pan with parchment, leaving an overhang for easy removal and perfect, intact bars.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Refrigerate Chocolate Raspberry Crumb Bars in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Freeze Chocolate Raspberry Crumb Bars in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm refrigerated or thawed bars in a 300°F oven until heated through to a food-safe internal temperature of 165°F.

Always allow your Chocolate Raspberry Crumb Bars to cool completely before storing to maintain texture and prevent condensation.

Conclusion

These Chocolate Raspberry Crumb Bars are the perfect easy dessert for any occasion. If you love this combination, try our Chocolate Raspberry Magic Bars Recipe next. We hope you enjoy making them! Leave a comment with your review, and don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes.

Print

FAQs

Can I use frozen raspberries for Chocolate Raspberry Crumb Bars?

Yes, you can use frozen raspberries. Thaw and drain them well to remove excess liquid, which prevents the filling from becoming too runny. This ensures your Chocolate Raspberry Crumb Bars have the perfect texture.

How should I store Chocolate Raspberry Crumb Bars?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the bars for up to 3 months.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The buttery crumb crust and topping for the Chocolate Raspberry Crumb Bars will still turn out delicious and hold together well.