Berry Easy Jam Bars
Who doesn’t love a sweet treat that comes together in no time and tastes like a hug in dessert form? These Berry Easy Jam Bars are buttery, fruity, and absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re hosting brunch or just craving something sweet, these bars are here to brighten your day.
WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS RECIPE:
These bars are the ultimate combination of a buttery shortbread crust, sweet berry jam, and a crumbly topping. They’re quick to whip up, perfect for sharing (or not!), and you can switch up the jam to suit your mood.
How to Make It
These jam bars are as simple as they are delicious. Here’s the lowdown:
- Start with the crust. A mix of flour, sugar, and butter forms the buttery base. You’ll press half of it into your pan for a sturdy crust.
- Spread the jam. Choose your favorite berry jam—raspberry, strawberry, or even a mixed berry blend. Spread it generously over the crust for that fruity pop.
- Add the crumble topping. Use the remaining crust mixture, crumble it over the jam, and let it bake to golden perfection.
- Cool and slice. Patience is key here—let the bars cool completely before cutting them to keep the layers neat.
Make Ahead Recipe Method
These bars are great for prepping ahead of time:
- Bake the bars as directed, let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the fridge.
- You can even freeze them! Wrap each bar individually, then place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Pro Tips
- Use cold butter. This keeps the crust and crumble perfectly crumbly and prevents it from becoming greasy.
- Line your pan with parchment paper. This makes it super easy to lift the bars out for slicing.
- Don’t overdo the jam—it should be a thin, even layer so the bars don’t get soggy.
- Switch it up! Try apricot, blueberry, or even fig jam for a new twist on the classic.
Storage
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate: Keep them chilled for up to 1 week if you want them to stay extra fresh.
- Freeze: Wrap each bar in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Tools For This Recipe
- 8×8-inch baking pan: Perfect size for this recipe and ensures even baking.
- Mixing bowls: For making the crust and crumble.
- Spatula: Helps spread the jam evenly.
- Parchment paper: A must for easy removal and no-mess cleanup.
FAQs
Can I use fresh fruit instead of jam?
Yes! Cook down fresh berries with a little sugar and cornstarch to create a homemade fruit filling.
What kind of butter works best?
Unsalted butter is ideal, as it lets you control the saltiness of the crust.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking mix, and they’ll turn out just as delicious.
Berry Easy Jam Bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup 2 sticks cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar packed
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup berry jam raspberry, strawberry, or your favorite
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt. Cut in the butter using a pastry cutter or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press half of the mixture firmly into the prepared pan to form the crust.
- Spread the jam evenly over the crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Crumble the remaining mixture over the jam layer.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
- Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.
- Alternate Instructions:
- Combine flour, sugars, and salt in a bowl. Mix in cold butter until crumbly.
- Press half into a pan, add jam, and top with crumbles.
- Bake until golden, then cool before slicing.
