Raspberry Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Bars

These Raspberry Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Bars are a delightful treat that will brighten up any occasion! With their soft, buttery texture and vibrant raspberry flavor, they’re perfect for summer picnics, family gatherings, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. The unique blend of oats and fresh fruit makes these bars both indulgent and comforting, ensuring they will be a favorite among friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of tart raspberries and sweet vanilla creates a deliciously balanced dessert.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up these bars in no time.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as dessert, a snack, or even breakfast on the go—they’re perfect for any time of day!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love them too! These bars are great for getting little ones involved in the kitchen.
• Customizable: Feel free to add nuts or swap in different fruits for variety and personal flair!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Large colander
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13 inch baking pan: Perfect size for creating thick, chewy bars.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking, making it easy to lift out the bars after baking.
• Large colander: Essential for draining the raspberries effectively.
• Mixing bowls: Provides ample space for combining ingredients without mess.

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Ingredients

These Raspberry Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Bars are THE BEST! So soft, buttery, and delicious. My favorite summer dessert.

For the Raspberry Filling

• two 12-ounce bags of frozen raspberries
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (more depending on tartness of your berries)
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• juice of one lemon

For the Base and Topping

• 3 cups rolled oats
• 3 cups flour
• 2 cups brown sugar (loosely packed)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 1/2 cups melted butter (I prefer salted)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

How to Make Raspberry Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the frozen raspberries in a large colander. Rinse them under warm water for about one minute. Allow them to drain thoroughly for about an hour until softened.

Step 2: Prepare the Raspberry Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the drained raspberries with granulated sugar, flour, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Gently fold everything together until well mixed.

Step 3: Make the Oat Mixture

In another large bowl, mix together rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, baking powder, melted butter, and salt. Stir until you achieve a crumbly consistency resembling wet sand.

Step 4: Assemble the Bars

Press two-thirds of the oat mixture into the bottom of a lined 9×13 inch baking pan. Bake this base in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes until just set.

Step 5: Add Raspberry Layer

Remove from the oven and spread the raspberry filling evenly over the baked base. Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture on top.

Step 6: Bake Again

Return to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes until golden brown on top.

Step 7: Cool Before Serving

Once baked, remove from oven and allow to cool completely in the pan. Chill in the refrigerator for a few hours before cutting into bars. Alternatively, enjoy warm like a fruit crisp! Use parchment paper edges to lift out easily before slicing.

Now you have delicious Raspberry Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Bars ready to impress at any gathering! Enjoy!

How to Serve Raspberry Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Bars

These Raspberry Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Bars are perfect for summer gatherings or casual get-togethers. Their sweet and tangy flavor pairs well with a variety of accompaniments.

With Whipped Cream

• Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a creamy texture that balances the tartness of the raspberries.

A Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream

• Vanilla ice cream complements the fruity flavor and enhances the dessert experience, making it extra indulgent.

Fresh Berries on Top

• Topping with fresh raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries provides a refreshing touch and boosts the berry flavor.

Drizzle of Chocolate Sauce

• A rich chocolate sauce can elevate these bars into a decadent treat, perfect for chocolate lovers.

Served Warm in a Bowl

• Enjoying them warm in a bowl creates a cozy dessert option that’s especially delightful during cooler evenings.

How to Perfect Raspberry Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Bars

Achieving the perfect Raspberry Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Bars is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips for success:

• Use Frozen Raspberries: Frozen berries maintain their shape and flavor when baked, ensuring your bars stay juicy without becoming soggy.
• Check Tartness: Adjust the sugar based on how tart your raspberries are. Taste before mixing in sugar to achieve your desired sweetness.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense bars.
• Let Them Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool thoroughly before cutting. This helps them firm up and makes slicing easier.

Best Side Dishes for Raspberry Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Bars

Raspberry Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Bars pair beautifully with various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness, complementing the raspberry flavor perfectly.
2. Yogurt Parfait
   Layered yogurt with granola and berries offers a creamy texture that pairs well with these bars for brunch or dessert.
3. Cheese Platter
   A selection of mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese balances the sweetness while adding richness to the meal.
4. Nuts and Seeds Mix
   A crunchy mix of almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds provides contrast in texture and makes for a satisfying snack alongside your bars.
5. Green Salad with Vinaigrette
   A light green salad tossed with vinaigrette cleanses the palate between bites of sweet dessert.
6. Herbal Iced Tea
   A refreshing herbal iced tea serves as a great beverage choice that keeps it light and complements the dessert’s flavors well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Raspberry Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Bars, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the final outcome.

• Using thawed raspberries improperly: Ensure you drain the raspberries completely after thawing to avoid excess moisture in the bars.
• Not measuring ingredients correctly: Accurate measurements are crucial. Use dry measuring cups for flour and sugar to ensure the right consistency.
• Skipping the chilling step: Allow the bars to set in the refrigerator for a few hours. This makes them easier to cut and enhances their texture.
• Overbaking the bars: Keep an eye on the baking time. Overbaked bars can turn dry, while underbaked ones might fall apart.
• Not lining the pan properly: Always line your baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• • Temperature: Keep at a consistent refrigerator temperature.

Freezing Raspberry Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Bars

• • Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months.
• • Container: Wrap bars individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating Raspberry Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm bars for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat each bar on medium power for 15-20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as they can become soggy.
• Stovetop: Place a bar in a non-stick skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Raspberry Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Bars.

Can I use fresh raspberries instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh raspberries can be used, but ensure they are firm and not overly ripe.

What if my batter is too crumbly?

If your mixture is too dry, try adding a splash of water or additional melted butter until it holds together better.

How long do these bars last?

Raspberry Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Bars can last up to 5 days in the fridge or 3 months in the freezer if stored properly.

Can I substitute other fruits?

Absolutely! You can experiment with blueberries, strawberries, or even cherries for different flavors.

Final Thoughts

These Raspberry Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Bars are perfect for summer gatherings or simply as a delightful treat at home. Their soft texture combined with sweet-tart raspberry flavor makes them irresistible. Feel free to customize with different fruits or nuts based on your preference!