Raspberry Ruffle Bars Recipe
Raspberry Ruffle Bars are a decadent and easy-to-make dessert, combining the sweetness of raspberries with the richness of chocolate and a bit of crunch. These no-bake bars are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without turning on the oven. The flavor combination of raspberry and chocolate makes these bars feel like a fancy treat, but they’re simple to prepare!
Ingredients:
For the Base:
- 1 1/2 cups digestive biscuits (or graham crackers, crushed into fine crumbs)
- 1/2 cup desiccated coconut
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup raspberry jam (or fresh raspberry puree)
For the Topping:
- 200g (about 7 oz) dark chocolate (preferably 70% cocoa), chopped into small pieces
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the Raspberry Swirl:
- 1/4 cup raspberry jam (or fresh raspberry puree, if you prefer a natural option)
- A few fresh raspberries (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
- Crush the Biscuits: In a large bowl, crush the digestive biscuits (or graham crackers) into fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a zip-top bag and using a rolling pin.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: Add the desiccated coconut, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar to the crushed biscuit crumbs. Stir to combine.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Pour the melted butter and raspberry jam into the dry mixture. Stir well to combine until everything is evenly coated and the mixture starts to come together.
2. Press the Base into a Pan:
- Line a 9×9-inch (23×23 cm) square baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of the pan, making sure it’s evenly spread and tightly packed. Use the back of a spoon to press it down firmly. Refrigerate while you prepare the topping.
3. Make the Chocolate Topping:
- In a heatproof bowl, combine the dark chocolate and butter.
- Melt the chocolate and butter together using a double boiler method or by microwaving in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and glossy.
- Pour the melted chocolate over the chilled base, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
4. Add the Raspberry Swirl:
- In a small bowl, gently warm the raspberry jam until it’s soft and runny (you can microwave it for 10-15 seconds).
- Drop spoonfuls of the raspberry jam over the chocolate topping in a random pattern. You can also add fresh raspberries for an extra touch of fruitiness.
- Use a toothpick or skewer to swirl the raspberry jam into the chocolate, creating a beautiful marbled effect.
5. Chill to Set:
- Place the pan in the fridge and allow the bars to chill for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate has fully set and the bars are firm to the touch.
6. Slice and Serve:
- Once set, remove the bars from the pan using the parchment paper. Use a sharp knife to slice them into squares or bars.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Fresh Raspberries: Serve these bars with a few fresh raspberries on the side to enhance the berry flavor.
- With a Scoop of Ice Cream: For an indulgent treat, serve these bars with a scoop of vanilla or raspberry sorbet ice cream.
- Pair with Tea: These bars are perfect with a cup of tea or coffee, making them great for afternoon gatherings.
Storage:
- In the Fridge: Store leftover Raspberry Ruffle Bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. The bars should be kept chilled to maintain their texture.
- Freezing: You can also freeze these bars. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Let them thaw in the fridge before serving.
Why You’ll Love These Raspberry Ruffle Bars:
- No-Bake: These bars come together without the need for baking, making them a great last-minute dessert.
- Decadent Chocolate and Raspberry: The combination of smooth chocolate and tangy raspberry is a timeless flavor pairing that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
- Customizable: Feel free to play with the topping—use white chocolate, add crushed nuts, or experiment with different fruit jams.
- Make-Ahead: These bars can be made in advance and stored in the fridge, making them a perfect option for meal prep or preparing treats for a party.
These Raspberry Ruffle Bars are the perfect treat for chocolate and fruit lovers alike, combining rich chocolate with a hint of raspberry sweetness for a flavor-packed dessert. Enjoy!
