Can I use raspberry preserves instead of fresh raspberries?

Yes, raspberry preserves or jam work beautifully in this recipe. You can use them alone or combine with fresh berries for added texture and tartness.

What type of chocolate is best for raspberry pie bars?

Bittersweet or dark chocolate chips (60–70% cacao) are ideal. They balance the sweetness of the condensed milk and raspberries without overpowering the flavor.

Can I make these pie bars ahead of time?

Absolutely. These bars actually taste better after chilling. Prepare them a day in advance, store them in the fridge, and slice just before serving.

How do I make the crust extra buttery and flaky?

Use cold, unsalted butter and press the dough evenly into the pan. Don’t overwork it. You can even chill the crust before baking to keep it tender.

Can I freeze dark chocolate raspberry pie bars?

Yes, they freeze very well. Let them cool completely, slice into bars, then freeze in layers separated by parchment in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Dark Chocolate Raspberry pie Bars

Description

These Dark Chocolate Raspberry Pie Bars feature a buttery shortbread crust, sweet-tart raspberry jam, and a rich ganache-style chocolate topping. Simple to make, but bakery-worthy in taste and presentation.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

½ cup granulated sugar

2 cups all-purpose flour

¼ tsp salt

¾ cup raspberry jam

1 cup fresh raspberries (optional)

1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

1½ cups dark chocolate chips

1 tsp vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13” pan with parchment.

2. Cream butter and sugar. Add flour and salt. Mix to form crumbly dough.

3. Press into pan. Bake for 15 minutes until golden.

4. Spread jam evenly over warm crust. Top with fresh raspberries.

5. Melt chocolate chips with condensed milk on low heat. Stir in vanilla.

6. Pour chocolate over raspberry layer. Spread evenly.

7. Bake again for 15–18 minutes until set. Cool completely.

8. Chill for clean slicing. Cut into bars and serve.

Notes

Use parchment for easy removal.

Refrigerate before slicing for neat squares.

Add lemon zest or nuts for variation.

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 265
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 55mg
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 25mg