If you’re searching for the perfect treat that strikes a beautiful balance between buttery shortbread, tangy raspberry jam, and a delightfully crumbly streusel topping, then this Raspberry Streusel Shortbread Bars Recipe is exactly what you need. The layers come together to create a dessert that’s irresistibly rich, yet brightened by that fresh jammy burst, making every bite a cozy little celebration of textures and flavors. Trust me, once you make these bars, they’ll quickly become your new go-to for everything from afternoon tea to potluck favorites.

Raspberry Streusel Shortbread Bars Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward, but each plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect balance of flavor and texture for the bars. From the creamy butter that provides richness to the fresh raspberry jam adding that sweet-tart pop, you’ll appreciate how each component shines.

1 cup unsalted butter, softened: This provides the tender base and richness in the shortbread dough, so be sure it’s nicely softened for easy creaming.
2/3 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough just right, balancing the tartness of the raspberry jam.
2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the shortbread’s delicate crumb texture.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the shortbread layer.
1 cup raspberry jam (seedless preferred): For that luscious, fruity middle layer bursting with fresh flavor.
1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for streusel topping): Creates the crumbly texture of the streusel topping.
1/3 cup brown sugar, packed (for streusel topping): Gives the streusel a lovely caramel-like sweetness and moisture.
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for streusel topping): Adds a warm, cozy spice that complements the raspberry beautifully.
1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed (for streusel topping): Cut into the topping to achieve that perfect crumbly finish.

How to Make Raspberry Streusel Shortbread Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan, or better yet, line it with parchment paper and let the edges hang over the sides. This little parchment trick makes it so much easier to lift out the entire batch once baked, so no crumb gets left behind!

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light, creamy, and fluffy. This step is key because it incorporates air into the dough, helping your shortbread remain tender rather than dense.

Step 3: Add Vanilla, Flour, and Salt

Mix in the vanilla extract until fragrant, then gradually add the flour and salt. Stir just until combined; overmixing can toughen the dough. What you want is a soft, crumbly shortbread dough that holds together when pressed.

Step 4: Form the Shortbread Base

Press about two-thirds of this dough evenly into the prepared pan with your fingers, creating a smooth and firm shortbread base. This layer will support the jam and toppings, so evenness is key.

Step 5: Spread the Raspberry Jam

Slather the seedless raspberry jam evenly over the shortbread base. A smooth, even layer here guarantees each bar will have that perfect juicy, sweet-tart surprise in every bite.

Step 6: Make the Streusel Topping

In a separate bowl, mix the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon for the streusel. Then add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to incorporate it until the mixture looks like chunky crumbs. This crumbly texture is exactly what makes the bars so magical on top.

Step 7: Assemble the Layers

Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the raspberry jam, covering every bit with those enticing crumbly bits. Then crumble the remaining shortbread dough over the streusel layer, giving the bars a beautifully rustic, textured finish.

Step 8: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake your bars for 35 to 40 minutes, until the top turns a gorgeous golden brown and the jam bubbles invitingly beneath. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point is absolutely heavenly!

Step 9: Cool Completely

Once baked, allow your Raspberry Streusel Shortbread Bars to cool entirely in the pan before slicing. This resting time ensures clean cuts and lets the jam set just right.

How to Serve Raspberry Streusel Shortbread Bars Recipe

Garnishes

These bars are wonderful on their own, but if you want to dress them up a bit, a light dusting of powdered sugar adds a pretty finishing touch. Fresh raspberries on the side boost that fresh fruity vibe, and a small dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream can turn them into an irresistible dessert.

Side Dishes

Serve these bars alongside a hot cup of tea or coffee for a comforting afternoon treat. They also pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a simple fruit salad for a light, refreshing contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the bars into bite-sized squares and serving on a platter with wooden picks for easy snacking at parties. You could even layer a few bars with fresh whipped cream and berries in a trifle glass for a stunning, layered dessert display. Their beautiful crumbly top and vibrant raspberry layer make them the star of any dessert table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These bars keep beautifully for up to four days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. The shortbread base holds up well, and the streusel topping stays crisp.

Freezing

If you want to make a batch ahead, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and freeze them in a sealed container for up to three months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge for a quick treat anytime.

Reheating

To refresh the bars, warm them in a low oven (about 300°F) for 5 to 10 minutes to bring back that freshly baked aroma and crumbly texture. Avoid microwaving as it can make the shortbread soggy.

FAQs

Can I use fresh raspberries instead of jam?

While fresh raspberries are delicious, they tend to release a lot of juice that could make the bars soggy. Using raspberry jam helps create a thick, stable layer that holds up well during baking and slicing.

Is it possible to make these bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Just ensure it contains xanthan gum for structure, or add a bit yourself to achieve the right crumb.

Can I use frozen raspberry jam?

Yes, as long as it’s thawed and stirred well before spreading. Seedless jam works best for smooth layering, but if your frozen jam has seeds, just spread carefully to avoid excessive spreading during baking.

What if I don’t have cinnamon for the streusel?

You can skip the cinnamon or substitute it with nutmeg or cardamom for a different but equally lovely warm spice note.

How thick should the shortbread base be?

About two-thirds of the dough pressed evenly will create a sturdy base thick enough to hold the jam and streusel, roughly a half-inch layer that bakes to a tender, crumbly perfection.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with this Raspberry Streusel Shortbread Bars Recipe. It’s a heartfelt combination of buttery shortbread, bright raspberry jam, and a perfectly crumbly streusel that guarantees smiles at the table. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just because you deserve a treat, this recipe will quickly become a beloved classic in your kitchen. So grab your ingredients and give it a try—you’re going to love how magical these bars turn out!