Oatmeal Bars with Raspberry Jam
Oatmeal Bars with Raspberry Jam: A Heartwarming Treat
If you’re looking for a delightful snack that’s both sweet and wholesome, these oatmeal bars with raspberry jam are a must-try! I’ve baked them countless times, and every batch brings smiles. Perfect for breakfast on the go, a midday pick-me-up, or even a cozy dessert, they’re a family favorite that never disappoints. The combination of buttery oats and tangy raspberry jam creates a comforting treat that feels both nostalgic and indulgent.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
Why should you whip up a batch of these oatmeal bars? For starters, they’re incredibly easy and quick to make with minimal fuss—ideal for busy weekdays or leisurely weekends. Plus, they’re budget-friendly, catering to families of all sizes without breaking the bank. The versatility of this dish is another highlight; it’s equally great for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea.
“These oatmeal bars are my go-to when I need a sweet treat! They disappear faster than I can bake them! The raspberry jam adds the perfect tartness to balance the sweetness.” – Happy Baker
The Cooking Process Explained
Making oatmeal bars with raspberry jam is straightforward, making it an excellent choice for beginners. Here’s a quick rundown of the process before diving into the ingredient list:
- Start by preheating your oven and greasing your baking dish.
- Cream together the butter and sugars, then mix in the vanilla for that extra flavor kick.
- Combine the dry ingredients in another bowl, and gradually add them to the wet mixture until well-blended.
- Set aside some of the oat mix for the topping, then press the rest into the baking dish.
- Layer on the raspberry jam, sprinkle the oat mixture on top, and pop it in the oven.
- After about 25-30 minutes, you’ll have golden, delicious bars ready to cool and slice.
What You’ll Need
Here’s the lineup for these delicious bars:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup raspberry jam
Feel free to swap the raspberry jam for your favorite fruit preserves or even return a family favorite like blueberry or strawberry!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cream the Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Beat until smooth, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, baking soda, and salt.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Build the Base Layer: Reserve about 1 cup of the mixture for topping. Press the remaining mixture into the bottom of the greased baking dish to form a solid base.
- Add the Jam: Spread the raspberry jam evenly over the base layer.
- Top with Oats: Crumble the reserved oat mixture evenly over the jam layer.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden.
- Cool and Slice: Once baked, allow it to cool completely before cutting it into bars.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
These oatmeal bars can be enjoyed in various delightful ways. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack. You might even enjoy them as part of a breakfast spread alongside yogurt and fresh fruits!
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
Storing these bars is simple! Let them cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, freeze the bars. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Extra Advice for Success
Here are a few tips to ensure your oatmeal bars turn out perfectly:
- Measure Ingredients Accurately: Proper measurements are crucial for the right texture.
- Watch the Bake Time: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on the bars towards the end of baking. You want them golden but not overdone.
- Let Them Cool: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing. This helps them hold together better.
Creative Twists
While these oatmeal bars are delicious as is, don’t shy away from experimenting! Consider adding chopped nuts for some crunch or using different fruit jams for varied flavors. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for warm spiciness.
Common Questions
How long does it take to prep these oatmeal bars?
Prep time is around 15 minutes, and the baking time is about 25-30 minutes, making this a quick and easy treat!
Can I substitute other types of jam?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your preferred jam or even fresh fruit.
What’s the best way to cut the bars?
For clean cuts, use a sharp knife, and wipe it clean between each cut to avoid messiness.
Enjoy crafting these delightful oatmeal bars with raspberry jam! With their comforting flavor and chewy texture, they are sure to become a cherished recipe in your collection.
Oatmeal Bars with Raspberry Jam
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Beat until smooth, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Reserve about 1 cup of the mixture for topping. Press the remaining mixture into the bottom of the greased baking dish to form a solid base.
- Spread the raspberry jam evenly over the base layer.
- Crumble the reserved oat mixture evenly over the jam layer.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden.
- Once baked, allow it to cool completely before cutting it into bars.
