Raspberry Almond Shortbread Bars: 7 Reasons You’ll Love Them

Name: Raspberry Almond Shortbread Bars: 7 Reasons You'll Love Them
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup raspberry jam; 1/4 cup sliced almonds

By:

Christina R. Jones

June 12, 2025

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Baking is one of my absolute favorite things to do, and there’s something so special about making Raspberry Almond Shortbread Bars. The moment you take that first bite, you’re greeted with a heavenly combination of buttery goodness and sweet-tart raspberry jam, all wonderfully complemented by the crunch of toasted almonds. It’s like a little party in your mouth! These bars are perfect for gatherings, whether you’re hosting friends for coffee or bringing a sweet treat to a potluck. They slice beautifully and look just as delightful on a dessert table as they do in a simple lunchbox. Honestly, they’re such a crowd-pleaser that I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve shared this recipe with family and friends. Plus, they come together so quickly—just 45 minutes from start to finish! Trust me, you’ll want to whip these up again and again.

Raspberry Almond Shortbread Bars - detail 1

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious Raspberry Almond Shortbread Bars. I promise, these ingredients come together to make something truly special!

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup raspberry jam (feel free to use your favorite brand!)
1/4 cup sliced almonds (toasted if you want an extra nutty flavor!)

Make sure to gather everything before you start, so you can focus on the fun of mixing and baking. You’ll love how simple and straightforward this list is, making it easy for you to whip these up in no time!

How to Prepare Raspberry Almond Shortbread Bars

Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these delightful Raspberry Almond Shortbread Bars! I promise it’s a breeze, and the end result will be well worth the effort. So, grab your apron, and let’s get started!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. **Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C)**. This step is crucial because a properly heated oven ensures even baking, so don’t skip it!

2. In a medium bowl, **cream together your softened butter and powdered sugar** until it’s light and fluffy. You can use a hand mixer or a sturdy wooden spoon—either works! This should take about 2-3 minutes.

3. Next, **add in the flour and salt**. Mix until everything is just combined. Don’t overdo it! We want a tender crumb for our shortbread, so stop mixing as soon as you see no more flour streaks.

4. Now, **lightly grease an 8-inch square pan** (or line it with parchment paper for easy removal). Press the shortbread mixture into the bottom of the pan evenly. This is where you can use your fingers or the back of a measuring cup to ensure it’s nice and packed down.

5. **Spread the raspberry jam** evenly over the shortbread crust. I love this part—it’s like painting a delicious masterpiece!

6. Lastly, **sprinkle the sliced almonds** over the jam. Make sure they’re evenly distributed to get that lovely crunch in every bite.

7. **Bake for 25-30 minutes** or until the edges turn a lovely golden brown. Your kitchen will smell absolutely heavenly while these bake! Once done, let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting.

Baking Tips

To ensure your Raspberry Almond Shortbread Bars turn out perfect every time, here are my top baking tips:

**Measure accurately!** Baking is a science, so use the spoon and level method for your flour to avoid dense bars.
**Keep an eye on the baking time**. Ovens can vary, so check a few minutes before the timer goes off. You want them golden but not overbaked!
**Let them cool completely** before cutting. This helps them set up nicely and makes for cleaner cuts. Patience is a virtue here!
If you toast the almonds beforehand, **keep an eye on them!** They can go from golden to burnt in a flash.

With these steps and tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a batch of Raspberry Almond Shortbread Bars that are sure to impress!

Nutritional Information

Curious about the nutrition in these delightful Raspberry Almond Shortbread Bars? Here’s an estimated breakdown to help you enjoy them guilt-free!

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 150
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 15mg
Sodium: 50mg
Carbohydrates: 21g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 8g
Protein: 2g

These values are estimates and can vary based on ingredient brands and specific measurements. But overall, these bars pack a delicious punch without going overboard on calories. Enjoy them as a sweet treat or a delightful addition to your dessert table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall head over heels for these Raspberry Almond Shortbread Bars! Here’s why I can’t get enough of them:

Super Easy to Make: With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal steps, you’ll be whisking these up in no time. Perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros!
Delicious Flavor: The buttery shortbread crust, sweet-tart raspberry jam, and crunchy almonds come together in a heavenly harmony that’s simply irresistible.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual coffee date, a fancy dessert table, or a simple afternoon snack, these bars are always a hit. They’re versatile enough for any gathering!
Make Ahead Convenience: You can whip these up in advance and store them, making them a fantastic option for busy weeks or impromptu get-togethers.
Customizable: Feel free to swap out the raspberry jam for your favorite fruit spread! Apricot, strawberry, or even a mixed berry jam will work wonders!

Trust me, once you try these Raspberry Almond Shortbread Bars, you’ll want to make them a regular part of your baking repertoire! They’re just that good!

Ingredient Notes/Substitutions

When it comes to making these Raspberry Almond Shortbread Bars, there’s plenty of room for creativity! Here are some of my favorite substitutions and notes that can help you tailor the recipe to your taste:

Fruit Jam Options: While raspberry jam is a star in this recipe, don’t hesitate to swap it for your favorite fruit spread! Strawberry, apricot, or even mixed berry jams can add a delightful twist. Just make sure the jam is spreadable for easy layering!
Butter Alternatives: If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use vegan butter. It works just as well and still gives you that rich flavor and tender texture.
Flour Variations: For a gluten-free version, try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just ensure it contains xanthan gum for the best results. This way, everyone can enjoy these delicious bars!
Toasted Almonds: Toasting the sliced almonds adds an amazing depth of flavor! If you choose to do this, just keep a close eye on them in the oven or on the stovetop, as they can burn quickly. The nutty aroma that fills your kitchen is totally worth the extra step!
Sweetness Level: If you prefer less sweetness, you can reduce the amount of powdered sugar in the shortbread crust. Just keep in mind that this may slightly affect the texture, so adjust gradually to find your perfect balance.
Additional Flavoring: Feel free to add a splash of almond extract to the shortbread mixture for an extra almondy kick! Just a teaspoon will enhance those nutty flavors beautifully.

These substitutions not only allow you to customize your Raspberry Almond Shortbread Bars but also let you use what you have on hand. I love how baking can be both a science and an art, so don’t be afraid to experiment a little!

Variations

One of the things I love most about these Raspberry Almond Shortbread Bars is how versatile they are! You can easily switch things up to create a whole new flavor experience. Here are some delicious variations that I think you’ll adore:

Mixed Berry Delight: Instead of raspberry jam, try using a mixed berry jam or a homemade blend of blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries. The combination of flavors adds a delightful twist!
Citrus Sunshine: Swap out the raspberry jam for lemon curd for a bright, zesty version. The creamy, tart lemon pairs beautifully with the buttery shortbread and almonds.
Chocolate Almond Bliss: For a chocolatey treat, spread a thin layer of Nutella or chocolate ganache on top of the shortbread before adding the almonds. Who can resist the combination of chocolate and almonds?
Peach Almond Dream: Use peach preserves in place of raspberry jam for a summery flavor. This combination is perfect for warm-weather gatherings and has such a lovely aroma while baking!
Maple Pecan Crunch: Substitute sliced almonds with chopped pecans and drizzle a bit of maple syrup over the top before baking. It adds a sweet and nutty flavor that’s truly irresistible.
Spiced Pumpkin Bars: For a fall-inspired treat, replace the jam with pumpkin puree mixed with a bit of cinnamon and nutmeg. You can even add some chopped walnuts for extra texture!

These variations not only change up the taste but also allow you to tailor the bars to suit the occasion or season. Don’t hesitate to get creative and experiment with your favorite flavors. I can’t wait to hear about your delicious combinations!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Let’s talk about how to keep your delicious Raspberry Almond Shortbread Bars fresh and tasty! Proper storage is key to enjoying these bars long after they’ve come out of the oven.

To store your leftover bars, start by letting them cool completely in the pan. Once they’re cool, transfer them to an airtight container. You can layer the bars between sheets of parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together. This method keeps them nice and fresh while making it easy to grab one when the craving strikes!

These bars can be stored at room temperature for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep them for a longer time (up to 2-3 weeks), just pop them in the fridge! Just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

If you find yourself with a stash of these tasty treats and want to enjoy them warm (because who doesn’t love a warm shortbread bar?), you can easily reheat them. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and place the bars on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Heat them for about 10 minutes or until they’re warmed through. You can also use the microwave if you’re in a hurry—just pop one in for about 10-15 seconds. Careful, though! They can get a bit hot, so let it cool for a moment before indulging.

With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor your Raspberry Almond Shortbread Bars whenever the mood strikes! Trust me, they’re just as delightful the next day (or even the day after that) as they are fresh out of the oven!

FAQ Section

Got questions about these delightful Raspberry Almond Shortbread Bars? No worries, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common inquiries I get, along with my answers to help you make the best bars possible.

Q1. Can I use frozen raspberries instead of raspberry jam?
While frozen raspberries are delicious, they won’t work as a direct substitute for the jam in this recipe. The jam provides sweetness and helps bind everything together. However, you can make a quick raspberry sauce by cooking down the frozen berries with a bit of sugar to thicken it up and then use that as a topping!

Q2. How do I know when the shortbread bars are done baking?
Check for a golden color around the edges! The center might look a tad soft, but it will firm up as it cools. You can also gently press the top; if it springs back slightly, it’s good to go!

Q3. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These Raspberry Almond Shortbread Bars store beautifully. You can make them a day or two in advance and keep them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge if you want them to last longer.

Q4. What’s the best way to cut the bars?
To get clean cuts, let the bars cool completely before slicing. Using a sharp knife helps, and you can dip it in hot water and wipe it dry between cuts for even cleaner lines. Perfect for presentation!

Q5. Can I freeze these shortbread bars?
Yes, you can freeze them! Just wrap the cooled bars tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for about a month. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight and enjoy!

Q6. What if I don’t have sliced almonds?
No problem at all! You can substitute chopped walnuts, pecans, or even hazelnuts. Each will give a different flavor profile but will still be deliciously crunchy!

If you have any other questions while baking, don’t hesitate to reach out. Happy baking, and enjoy those Raspberry Almond Shortbread Bars!