There’s something magical about a dessert that’s simple, nostalgic, and guaranteed to please a crowd. Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars from My Family Thyme check all those boxes and more. These raspberry bars are the perfect combination of a buttery crust, fruity sweetness, and delightful crumbly topping—all made with just five simple ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a weekend dabbler in the kitchen, this easy 5-ingredient dessert is about to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

I first discovered these bars thanks to a dear friend who brought them to a summer gathering. One bite and I was hooked. The simplicity, flavor, and texture were all perfect. Even better? They came together in under an hour, using pantry staples. And when you’re entertaining or baking for a crowd, that convenience is key. Storing these bars properly is just as easy—refer to the USDA’s guide on baked goods storage to ensure your treats stay fresh.

What makes these bars truly irresistible is the balance of textures: the soft, buttery base, the sweet and slightly tart raspberry jam, and the golden, crumbly topping. If you’ve ever wondered why some bars have a sandy texture while others are more structured, the answer lies in the flour. Check out King Arthur Baking’s flour guide for insight into how different flours affect the final product.

Why You’ll Love These Raspberry Bars

Only five ingredients—all easy to find
Quick prep and bake time
Versatile—can substitute with other fruit jams
Portable and perfect for potlucks or picnics
Easy to store and freeze

Ingredients Breakdown

To make these delicious raspberry bars, you’ll need:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg, room temperature
1 jar (9–12 oz) seedless raspberry jam

Each ingredient plays a role:

The butter creates a rich, melt-in-your-mouth base
Flour adds structure and crumbliness
Sugar sweetens and helps with browning
The egg binds the crust for sliceable consistency
Raspberry jam adds fruity brightness and moisture

How to Make Fabulous Raspberry Bars

These steps are quick, clear, and beginner-friendly:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 baking pan with parchment paper.
Mix crust: In a mixing bowl, combine butter, flour, sugar, and egg. Use an electric mixer on low speed until the mixture becomes crumbly.
Press into pan: Reserve 1 ½ cups of the crumbly mixture. Press the rest into the bottom of your baking dish.
Add jam: Spread the raspberry jam evenly over the crust.
Top it: Sprinkle the reserved mixture over the jam, pressing lightly.
Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 30–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Cool and slice: Allow bars to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Pro Tips and Tricks

Always use room temperature ingredients for best texture
Parchment paper = easy cleanup
Don’t overbake—edges should be golden, not dark brown
Customize with:
- Blueberry, strawberry, or apricot jam
- 1 cup of chopped walnuts or slivered almonds for crunch
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or lemon zest for extra flavor

Fun Variations to Try

The beauty of this recipe is in its adaptability:

Gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend
Vegan: Sub the egg with a flax egg and use plant-based butter
Mini bars: Press into muffin tins for individual servings
Oatmeal topping: Mix ½ cup oats into the reserved topping
Nutty crust: Blend in almond flour or crushed pecans

Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions

Pair your raspberry bars with:

A hot cup of Earl Grey tea or fresh coffee
Lemonade or iced tea at summer brunches
A scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert
Drizzle with melted white chocolate for an elegant twist

Nutritional Notes and Storage

These bars offer indulgent flavor, so serve in small squares.

Estimated: ~180–220 calories per bar (depending on size)
Contains: dairy, egg, gluten
Can be stored:
- At room temp for 2 days
- In the fridge for up to 1 week
- Frozen in layers (with parchment) for up to 2 months

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you freeze raspberry bars?
Yes! Freeze after baking and cooling. Use parchment to separate layers and store in a sealed container.

What jam works best for this recipe?
Seedless raspberry jam is best, but other thick jams (like apricot or blackberry) work well too.

Can I use fresh raspberries instead?
You can, but cook them down with a little sugar and cornstarch first to mimic the consistency of jam.

How do I prevent the bars from falling apart?
Be sure to let them cool completely before slicing. Using parchment paper also helps lift the entire sheet out evenly.

Should raspberry bars be crunchy or soft?
The bottom crust should be slightly firm, while the topping stays crumbly. The middle stays moist and fruity.

Final Thoughts

Fabulous Five Ingredient Raspberry Bars are proof that less can truly be more. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a dessert that’s rich in flavor, charmingly rustic, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re baking for your family, a get-together, or just a quiet afternoon treat, these bars are guaranteed to impress. Try swapping in your favorite jam, or adding your own creative twist—and don’t forget to share them with someone you love.