When you’re craving something both elegant and easy to make, White Chocolate Raspberry Bars offer the perfect dessert solution. These luscious dessert bars feature a soft, buttery crust layered with a tangy raspberry swirl and creamy white chocolate, creating the ideal combination of rich sweetness and fruity brightness.
Perfect for holidays, tea parties, bake sales, or a refined after-dinner treat, these bars are as beautiful to serve as they are delicious to eat. The contrast between tart raspberries and smooth white chocolate makes each bite feel balanced and luxurious.
Ingredients
Yields: 16 bars
For the Crust and Base
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/3 cup (65g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Filling
- 1 cup (175g) white chocolate chips or chunks
- 1/3 cup (80ml) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup (80g) raspberry jam or seedless preserves
- Optional: fresh raspberries for extra texture
For Topping (Optional)
- Additional white chocolate drizzle
- Fresh raspberries
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Baking time: 25 minutes
- Cooling time: 1 hour
- Total time: About 1 hour 45 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Bake for 12–14 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from oven and set aside.
Step 2: Make the White Chocolate Filling
- In a small saucepan over low heat, combine white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk.
- Stir constantly until melted and smooth, then remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Pour the white chocolate mixture over the pre-baked crust, spreading evenly.
Step 3: Add the Raspberry Swirl
- Drop small spoonfuls of raspberry jam over the white chocolate layer.
- Use a toothpick or knife to gently swirl the jam into the filling for a marbled effect.
- (Optional) Add a few fresh raspberries scattered on top for extra texture and tartness.
Step 4: Bake and Cool
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for 10–12 more minutes, or until the edges are set and lightly golden.
- Remove and let cool completely in the pan. Chill in the fridge for easier slicing.
- Once cool, lift the bars out using the parchment paper, cut into squares, and drizzle with additional melted white chocolate or a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled for cleaner slices and a firmer texture.
- Garnish with fresh mint or whipped cream for presentation.
- Enjoy with a cup of tea, iced coffee, or champagne at your next gathering.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Bar (1 of 16) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 |
| Protein | 2 grams |
| Total Fat | 11 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 6 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 26 grams |
| Sugars | 18 grams |
| Fiber | 0.5 grams |
| Sodium | 60 milligrams |
Key Nutritional Notes:
- White chocolate and sweetened condensed milk bring richness and sweetness, making these bars indulgent.
- Raspberry jam adds a tangy contrast while providing antioxidants from the fruit.
- Butter-based crust keeps the texture soft and shortbread-like but contributes to the fat content — enjoy in moderation!
Tips for Best Results
- Use high-quality white chocolate for the best melt and flavor.
- For a more vibrant swirl, gently warm the jam before swirling.
- Allow bars to cool completely before slicing to prevent messy edges.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Fun Variations
- Try blueberry or strawberry preserves for a different fruity twist.
- Add finely chopped almonds or pistachios on top for a nutty crunch.
- Use dark chocolate drizzle for a contrasting flavor profile.
These White Chocolate Raspberry Bars offer an elegant and satisfying dessert that’s easy to prepare yet impressive to serve. Whether you’re baking for a party or just treating yourself, the combination of tangy raspberry and sweet white chocolate wrapped in a buttery crust makes these bars a standout.