Name: Dark Chocolate Raspberry Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 tsp salt; 3/4 cup raspberry preserves; 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Fresh raspberries (optional, for garnish)

These Dark Chocolate Raspberry Bars are the kind of treat that feels elegant and indulgent without being fussy. With a buttery base, a layer of sweet-tart raspberry preserves, and a luscious dark chocolate topping that melts on your tongue, every bite is like a love letter to your taste buds. It’s the perfect marriage of fruity brightness and deep, rich chocolate totally irresistible. Whether you’re baking them up for a cozy weekend indulgence or showing off at a brunch, these bars always steal the spotlight. Trust me, you’re going to want to keep this recipe close.

Why You’ll Love Dark Chocolate Raspberry Bars

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile:

Equally perfect as a tea-time treat, a dessert platter showstopper, or a sweet little midnight snack.

Budget-Friendly:

Made with everyday ingredients, this recipe doesn’t break the bank but still feels fancy.

Quick and Easy:

Minimal steps and no complicated techniques. You’ll be enjoying these bars in no time.

Customizable:

Switch up the jam flavor, add chopped nuts, or even a hint of citrus zest for your own twist.

Crowd-Pleasing:

With layers of texture and flavor, these bars appeal to both fruit and chocolate lovers—double the delight.

Ingredients in Dark Chocolate Raspberry Bars

Here’s the beauty of these bars they’re built on a handful of ingredients that come together for something truly magical:

All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base of your buttery crust.
Unsalted Butter: Gives the crust that rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Granulated Sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the tart jam.
Salt: Enhances all the other flavors in the base.
Raspberry Preserves: Adds fruity sweetness with a vibrant tangy kick.
Dark Chocolate Chips: The bold, bittersweet topping that brings richness and depth.
Heavy Cream: Smooths the chocolate for a glossy, spreadable ganache.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this rich, fruity, chocolatey treat:

Preheat Your Equipment:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). A hot oven ensures your crust bakes up golden and crisp.

Combine Ingredients:

In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This buttery base sets the stage for all that flavor to come.

Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:

Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This keeps cleanup easy and makes removing the bars a breeze.

Assemble the Dish:

Press the crumbly dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Bake for about 15–18 minutes, or until lightly golden.

Cook to Perfection:

Remove the crust from the oven and let it cool slightly. Then spread a generous layer of raspberry preserves on top. Meanwhile, melt the dark chocolate chips with cream until smooth and glossy.

Finishing Touches:

Pour the chocolate ganache over the raspberry layer and gently spread it to the edges. Chill the bars in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or until set.

Serve and Enjoy:

Slice into squares or bars and serve chilled or at room temperature. Each bite is a contrast of crisp, tart, and creamy perfection.

Nutrition Facts:

Servings: 12 bars
Calories per serving: Approximately 250

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: About 2 hours 35 minutes

How to Serve Dark Chocolate Raspberry Bars

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

Serve with a cup of espresso or black tea for an afternoon pick-me-up.
Add a dollop of whipped cream or crème fraîche for a decadent touch.
Sprinkle with powdered sugar or a drizzle of white chocolate for a pretty presentation.
Serve with fresh raspberries on the side for an extra burst of fruitiness.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

For a crisper base, bake the crust a few extra minutes before adding the jam.
Swap in seedless raspberry jam if you prefer a smoother texture.
Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the crust mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
Use good-quality dark chocolate (at least 60% cocoa) for the best results.
Let the bars come to room temperature for a softer ganache before slicing.

FAQ’s

Can I use a different kind of jam?
Absolutely! Strawberry, cherry, or blackberry work beautifully, too.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, they’re even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld.
Do these bars need to be refrigerated?
Yes, store them in the fridge for freshness, especially due to the cream in the ganache.
Can I freeze these bars?
Definitely. Freeze them in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark?
Sure, just keep in mind it will make the bars a bit sweeter and less intense.
What’s the best way to cut clean slices?
Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water and wiped dry between each cut.
Can I add nuts for texture?
Yes! Chopped almonds or pecans would be delicious in the crust or sprinkled on top.
Is there a gluten-free option?
You can try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make the base.
Can I use frozen raspberries instead of jam?
It’s best to stick with preserves for consistency, but you could cook down raspberries with sugar to make your own.
How long do they stay fresh?
Stored in the fridge, they’ll keep well for about 5–6 days.

Conclusion

These Dark Chocolate Raspberry Bars are proof that a little effort and a few quality ingredients can create something absolutely show-stopping. With their buttery base, sweet-tart filling, and rich chocolatey finish, they’re the kind of treat that satisfies every craving at once. So the next time you want to whip up something that looks and tastes fancy but feels like a hug in dessert form this is the recipe for you. Happy baking, and don’t forget to sneak a second piece!