Dark Chocolate Raspberry Crumble Bars are the ultimate treat for anyone who loves the combination of rich dark chocolate and tangy raspberry jam. These bars feature a buttery oat crust, a sweet jam layer, and a generous sprinkle of dark chocolate chips, all baked to perfection to create a satisfying, crumble-topped dessert. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a dessert to share at your next gathering, these bars are sure to impress with their vibrant flavors and irresistible texture.

The combination of oats, butter, and brown sugar forms a deliciously crumbly base, while the raspberry jam adds a burst of fruity sweetness. Topped with dark chocolate chips, these bars offer a perfect balance of bitterness and sweetness in every bite. The best part is that they are incredibly easy to make, with just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, these bars are foolproof and deliver delicious results every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Perfect Flavor Combination

The pairing of tart raspberry jam and rich dark chocolate creates a wonderfully balanced dessert that’s both sweet and slightly bitter.

2. Easy to Make

With only a few simple ingredients and a straightforward baking process, these bars are quick to prepare, making them an excellent choice for busy days.

3. Versatile

These bars can easily be modified. You can swap the raspberry jam for other fruit preserves, or even mix in your favorite type of chocolate.

4. Great for Sharing

With 12 servings, these crumble bars are ideal for parties, picnics, or potlucks where you want to offer a crowd-pleasing dessert.

5. Satisfying Texture

The combination of the crumbly oat base and the smooth, gooey jam, topped with melty chocolate chips, provides a satisfying texture in every bite.

Ingredients

All-purpose flour
Rolled oats
Brown sugar
Salt
Unsalted butter
Raspberry jam
Dark chocolate chips

Variations

Fruit Jam Swap: You can substitute the raspberry jam with strawberry, blueberry, or apricot preserves for a different fruit flavor.
Nutty Twist: Add chopped nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans to the crumble topping for an extra crunch.
White Chocolate: If you prefer white chocolate, substitute the dark chocolate chips for white chocolate chips for a sweeter version.
Vegan Option: Use dairy-free butter and substitute the chocolate chips with a vegan variety to make these bars vegan-friendly.
Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal of the bars.

Step 2: Prepare the Crumble Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, and salt. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture becomes crumbly.

Step 3: Press the Base

Press half of the crumble mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan, forming an even crust layer.

Step 4: Add Raspberry Jam

Spread the raspberry jam evenly over the crust, making sure to cover the entire surface.

Step 5: Sprinkle Chocolate Chips

Evenly sprinkle the dark chocolate chips over the jam layer. The chocolate will melt into the jam, creating a gooey, chocolaty filling.

Step 6: Top with Crumble

Crumble the remaining oat mixture over the top of the jam and chocolate layers, spreading it evenly.

Step 7: Bake

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are slightly crispy.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into 12 squares. This will help the bars set and make them easier to slice.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Even Crust: When pressing the oat mixture into the pan, make sure it’s compact and even to ensure a solid base for the bars.
Cooling Time: Allow the bars to cool fully before cutting to avoid the filling oozing out and to help them hold their shape.
Jam Layer: If you find the jam too thick, warm it slightly in the microwave for easier spreading.
Storage: If you don’t plan on serving the bars immediately, refrigerate them to keep them fresh and firm.
Baking Time: Keep an eye on the bars during baking. If the top is golden brown and the edges are crisp, they are ready.

How to Serve

These Dark Chocolate Raspberry Crumble Bars are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them even further by serving them with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of extra melted chocolate for a decadent dessert. They also pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or a chilled glass of milk.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover crumble bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, refrigerate them for up to 1 week.

Freezing

To freeze these bars, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe container. They will keep for up to 2 months in the freezer. Thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

Reheat these bars in the microwave for a few seconds if you prefer to enjoy them warm. They also taste great cold.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of jam?

Yes, feel free to swap out the raspberry jam for strawberry, blueberry, or any other fruit preserve that you enjoy.

2. Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, you can make these bars ahead of time. They keep well in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

3. How do I keep the bars from falling apart?

Make sure to let the bars cool completely before cutting them. This allows the jam and chocolate layers to set properly.

4. Can I use a different type of chocolate?

You can use milk chocolate, white chocolate, or even a mix of different chocolates for a unique flavor.

5. Can I make these bars vegan?

Yes, by substituting the butter with a plant-based alternative and using dairy-free chocolate chips, you can easily make these bars vegan.

6. Can I add nuts to these bars?

Yes, chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts can be added to the crumble topping for extra texture and flavor.

7. How should I store the bars?

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 1 week.

8. Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, these bars freeze well. Wrap them tightly and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

9. How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The top should be golden brown, and the edges should be crispy. If you press down gently on the center, it should not feel too soft.

10. How many servings does this recipe yield?

This recipe makes 12 bars, perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Conclusion

Dark Chocolate Raspberry Crumble Bars are a deliciously indulgent dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With their irresistible combination of rich dark chocolate, sweet raspberry jam, and buttery oat crumble, they offer a comforting, satisfying treat that everyone will love. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or savoring them yourself, they’re a must-try for anyone who loves the sweet-tart combination of raspberry and chocolate.