Name: Raspberry Streusel Shortbread Bars Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); ⅔ cup granulated sugar; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; 2¼ cups all-purpose flour; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¾ cup raspberry preserves or jam; ½ cup fresh raspberries (optional); ¼ cup powdered sugar (for dusting)

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If you’re on the hunt for a show-stopping treat that’s as simple as it is stunning, look no further than these Raspberry Streusel Shortbread Bars. Each bite combines the buttery tenderness of classic shortbread, layers of sweet-tart raspberry preserves, bursts of real berries, and a golden, crumbly streusel top. These bars strike the perfect balance between comforting and elegant, making them just as ideal for casual coffee breaks as they are for special celebrations. Let’s get baking!

Raspberry Streusel Shortbread Bars Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making your Raspberry Streusel Shortbread Bars unforgettable. This recipe truly shines when you use fresh, quality ingredients—the buttery base, fruity filling, and sparkling powdered sugar all play a starring role!

Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Gives the shortbread its signature rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture—make sure it’s room temperature for easy mixing.
Granulated sugar (⅔ cup): Sweetens the bars while enhancing the delicate flavor of the preserves.
Vanilla extract (½ teaspoon): Lends a lovely warmth that rounds out the flavors.
All-purpose flour (2¼ cups): Forms the foundation of the shortbread, keeping it tender but sturdy for slicing.
Salt (¼ teaspoon): Just a pinch sharpens every other flavor—don’t skip this key ingredient!
Raspberry preserves or jam (¾ cup): Use seedless preserves for a perfectly smooth layer, or opt for homemade jam for an extra bit of personality.
Fresh raspberries (½ cup, optional): These optional gems add bright color and juicy bursts throughout the filling.
Powdered sugar (¼ cup, for dusting): A light dusting gives the finished bars a bakery-worthy finish and visual pop.

How to Make Raspberry Streusel Shortbread Bars

Step 1: Prep the Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment, allowing the paper to hang over the sides for easy lifting later. This simple trick makes removing and slicing the Raspberry Streusel Shortbread Bars an absolute breeze, and helps keep the bars perfectly intact.

Step 2: Mix the Shortbread Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter, sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture looks light and fluffy—you want to incorporate a little air for the best texture. Add in the flour and salt, stirring just until the dough forms soft crumbs; resist the urge to overmix, as you want tender, delicate bars.

Step 3: Set Aside Streusel Topping

Scoop out 1 cup of your crumbly dough and set it aside for the streusel topping. This extra step is what gives Raspberry Streusel Shortbread Bars their gorgeous, rustic finish on top and ensures every bite is as deliciously buttery as the last.

Step 4: Build the Crust

Press the remaining dough firmly and evenly into the bottom of your lined baking pan. Use your hands or the bottom of a measuring cup to create a smooth, compact layer. Bake this base layer for 15 minutes or until it’s just starting to turn golden—this pre-bake ensures the crust holds its shape under the juicy raspberry filling.

Step 5: Add the Raspberry Layer

Once your crust is out of the oven (leave the oven on!), gently spread the raspberry preserves over the warm shortbread base. If you’re using fresh raspberries, sprinkle them over the jam now for extra juiciness, color, and that irresistible tart-sweet flavor.

Step 6: Top and Bake Again

Crumble the reserved dough evenly over the raspberry filling, creating nooks and crannies for the filling to peek through. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the streusel is golden and the filling is bubbling around the edges. The aroma will signal when it’s ready!

Step 7: Cool, Slice, and Dust

Let your bars cool completely in the pan for tidy slices—lift them out using the parchment overhang. Cut into 16 squares (or more, if you like bite-sized treats) and dust generously with powdered sugar right before serving for that finishing sparkle.

How to Serve Raspberry Streusel Shortbread Bars

Garnishes

For a knockout presentation, top each bar with a few extra fresh raspberries and a final flurry of powdered sugar. A delicate sprig of mint or lemon zest also adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that plays so nicely with the sweet, buttery layers.

Side Dishes

Pair your Raspberry Streusel Shortbread Bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of lightly whipped cream for an indulgent dessert experience. A tall glass of iced tea or fresh coffee is all you need to round out an afternoon snack or casual get-together.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the bars on a tiered cake stand for brunch, box them up for a picnic, or serve mini squares as part of a dessert tray at parties. You can even wrap them individually in parchment and baker’s twine for charming party favors or holiday gifts!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep Raspberry Streusel Shortbread Bars fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. They’ll maintain their crisp texture and vibrant flavor, making them perfect for make-ahead treats or grab-and-go snacks.

Freezing

These bars freeze beautifully! Place cooled, cut bars in a single layer on a tray to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container with parchment between layers. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months—simply thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

While these bars are delicious at room temperature, you can refresh them by warming individual bars for about 10 seconds in the microwave. This revives the buttery aroma and slightly softens the filling, making them taste bakery-fresh.

FAQs

Can I use other preserves instead of raspberry?

Absolutely! While the classic version features raspberry, you can swap in strawberry or apricot jam for a tasty twist. Just choose a good-quality preserve for the brightest, freshest flavor.

Do I have to use fresh raspberries?

Not at all—the bars taste incredible with just preserves. Adding fresh raspberries is optional, but they give extra bursts of tart flavor and make your bars look extra pretty.

How do I keep the shortbread from crumbling?

The key is to press the dough firmly and evenly into the pan and to allow the bars to cool completely before slicing. Lining your pan with parchment paper also helps lift the bars out without breaking.

How long do Raspberry Streusel Shortbread Bars stay fresh?

At room temperature, they’ll stay delicious for up to 3 days. For longer storage, pop them in the freezer and they can last up to 2 months.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute your favorite gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the regular flour. Check that your chosen jam is gluten-free as well for a completely celiac-friendly treat.

Final Thoughts

Give yourself the sweet reward you deserve and try baking up a batch of Raspberry Streusel Shortbread Bars. They’re guaranteed to brighten your table—and your tastebuds—whether you’re sharing them with friends or sneaking one straight from the pan. Happy baking!

Raspberry Streusel Shortbread Bars Recipe

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4.7 from 24 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 16 bars 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in these delightful Raspberry Streusel Shortbread Bars that offer a perfect balance of buttery shortbread, sweet raspberry filling, and a crumbly streusel topping. Ideal for any occasion, these bars are a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

Scale

Shortbread Base:

1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
⅔ cup granulated sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
2¼ cups all-purpose flour
¼ teaspoon salt

Filling and Topping:

¾ cup raspberry preserves or jam
½ cup fresh raspberries (optional)
¼ cup powdered sugar (for dusting)

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Instructions

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Mix Shortbread: Cream butter, sugar, and vanilla. Add flour and salt; mix until crumbly.
Layer and Bake: Press most dough into pan, bake, spread preserves, add raspberries, crumble reserved dough on top, and bake again.
Cool and Serve: Cool completely, cut into bars, and dust with powdered sugar.