“Luscious Raspberry Crumble Squares”

“Luscious Raspberry Crumble Squares”

Ingredients:

For the Crust and Crumble Topping:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and diced
• 1 large egg, beaten

For the Raspberry Filling:

• 2 cups fresh raspberries
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• Juice of half a lemon

For Garnish (optional):

• Fresh raspberries
• Chopped nuts (such as pecans or almonds)
• Powdered sugar or shredded coconut

Equipment:

• 8×8 inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Parchment paper

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. Make the Crust and Crumble Topping:
   • In a large bowl, mix together flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
   • Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Stir in the beaten egg until the dough comes together but is still crumbly.
   • Press half of the crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a firm layer.
3. Prepare the Raspberry Filling:
   • In another bowl, toss the fresh raspberries with sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice.
   • Spread the raspberry mixture evenly over the crust.
4. Add the Crumble Topping:
   • Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the raspberry filling.
5. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
6. Cool and Garnish:
   • Let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
   • Once cooled, lift out the bars using the parchment paper overhang.
   • Cut into squares.
   • Garnish with additional fresh raspberries, chopped nuts, powdered sugar, or shredded coconut if desired.
7. Serve:
   • Enjoy these delicious Raspberry Crumble Bars as a delightful dessert or a sweet treat with your afternoon tea.

Title for the Recipe:

“Heavenly Raspberry Crumble Bars”

This title reflects the divine taste and texture of these bars, making them a tempting choice for anyone looking for a fruity, crumbly dessert. Enjoy making and savoring these beautiful bars!