Strawberry Jam Shortbread Bars Recipe

Introduction

These Strawberry Jam Shortbread Bars are a delightful treat combining buttery, crumbly shortbread with a sweet and tangy strawberry jam layer. Perfect for a simple dessert or a sweet snack, they are easy to make and loved by all ages.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp almond extract
• 2 1/2 cups all purpose flour
• 3/4 – 1 cup strawberry jam (or preserves)
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it well. Set aside.
2. Step 2: Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, cream the butter until light and fluffy, about 1 minute.
3. Step 3: Add the granulated sugar and continue creaming the mixture until it is light and fluffy, about another minute.
4. Step 4: Mix in the vanilla extract and almond extract until fully combined.
5. Step 5: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and mix until the dough comes together.
6. Step 6: Press about half to two-thirds of the shortbread dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan, creating a firm layer.
7. Step 7: Spread the strawberry jam evenly over the pressed dough. Use 3/4 cup for a thinner layer or 1 cup for more jam filling, based on your preference.
8. Step 8: Sprinkle the remaining shortbread dough over the jam layer without pressing it down.
9. Step 9: Bake for 35 to 38 minutes, until the jam is bubbling and the shortbread topping is just lightly golden brown.
10. Step 10: Allow the bars to cool to room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator if desired. These bars are delicious served cold or at room temperature.
11. Step 11: Before serving, dust the bars lightly with powdered sugar, if you like.

Tips & Variations

• For added texture, sprinkle chopped nuts like almonds or pecans on top of the jam before adding the crumb topping.
• Use your favorite jam flavor such as raspberry, apricot, or blueberry for a different twist.
• If you prefer a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Chilling the dough before pressing it into the pan can help prevent spreading for a firmer crust.

Storage

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage; wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months. Reheat briefly at room temperature or enjoy chilled for a refreshing treat.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought jam for this recipe?

Yes, store-bought jam works perfectly. Choose a good-quality jam or preserves for the best flavor and consistency.

How do I cut the bars cleanly without crumbling?

Make sure the bars are fully cooled, preferably chilled in the fridge, before cutting. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat squares.

Strawberry Jam Shortbread Bars Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 62 reviews

• Author: Lila
• Total Time: 53 minutes
• Yield: 9 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Strawberry Jam Shortbread Bars are a delightful treat featuring a buttery shortbread base and crumb topping with a luscious layer of strawberry jam in the middle. These bars are easy to make, combining simple ingredients into a delicious dessert perfect for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Shortbread Dough

• 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp almond extract
• 2 1/2 cups all purpose flour

Jam Layer

• 3/4 – 1 cup strawberry jam (or preserves)

Topping

• powdered sugar, for dusting

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Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it well to prevent sticking. Set it aside.
2. Cream the Butter: Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, cream the room temperature unsalted butter until it is light and fluffy, which should take about one minute.
3. Add Sugar: Add granulated sugar to the creamed butter and continue beating until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, approximately one more minute.
4. Add Extracts: Mix in the vanilla extract and almond extract until well combined to add flavor to the dough.
5. Add Flour: Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour into the mixture and mix until just combined to form the shortbread dough.
6. Press Dough Base: Press about half to two-thirds of the shortbread dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the base layer.
7. Add Jam Layer: Spread the strawberry jam evenly over the pressed dough layer, using 3/4 cup for a lighter jam layer or 1 cup for a thicker layer.
8. Add Crumb Topping: Sprinkle the remaining shortbread dough crumbs evenly over the jam layer without pressing them down.
9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 38 minutes or until the jam is bubbling and the shortbread crumbs turn a light golden brown.
10. Cool: Let the bars cool to room temperature, then refrigerate if desired for the best texture and flavor. They can also be served at room temperature.
11. Dust with Powdered Sugar: Before serving, dust the top of the bars with powdered sugar for a delightful finishing touch.

Notes

• Using room temperature butter helps achieve a smooth, creamy dough.
• You can adjust the amount of strawberry jam based on your preference for the filling thickness.
• Cooling the bars in the refrigerator enhances the texture, making them easier to cut and enjoy.
• These bars are best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within 3-4 days.
• For a nutty twist, consider adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts over the jam layer before adding the crumb topping.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 38 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: strawberry jam bars, shortbread bars, easy dessert, strawberry preserves dessert, sweet bars, baked dessert