Jam Jam Bars are a dessert recipe that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. These sweet, buttery bars are filled with fruity jam, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
It’s the kind of treat that’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a weekend gathering, a quick snack, or a sweet ending to a family dinner. This dessert recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Why Jam Jam Bars Are the Perfect Dessert Recipe
Jam Jam Bars are a simple yet decadent dessert that captures the perfect combination of sweetness and buttery richness. The soft, crumbly base, paired with a luscious layer of fruit jam, creates a mouthwatering bite that everyone will love.
The best part? They’re incredibly easy to make, with minimal prep time and just a few basic ingredients. It’s a dessert recipe that even beginner bakers can master.
Key Benefits of Jam Jam Bars:
- Quick and easy to prepare with simple ingredients.
- Perfectly balanced sweet and buttery flavors.
- Customizable with your choice of fruit jam or preserves.
- Great for sharing at parties or family gatherings.
Tips for Making Perfect Jam Jam Bars
- Choose Your Jam Wisely: The flavor of your jam will define the taste of the bars. Classic strawberry, raspberry, or apricot jams are popular choices, but feel free to experiment with other flavors. Mixed berry or fig jam can bring a unique twist.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the baking time. The top should be lightly golden but not too dark. Overbaking can result in a dry texture.
- Customize the Crumble: Want more texture? Add a little bit of crushed nuts or a dash of cinnamon to the crumble topping. This adds a hint of crunch and a warm, aromatic flavor.
- Cut Cleanly: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them. This will ensure clean, neat squares without crumbling.
How to Serve & Store Jam Jam Bars
These delicious bars are perfect for any occasion. Serve them fresh from the oven, with a light dusting of powdered sugar for a touch of elegance. They pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them an excellent afternoon treat.
For storage, keep your jam jam bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, store them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
They also freeze well—just wrap each bar individually and store them in a freezer-safe bag.
Creative Variations to Try
- Nutty Twist: Add a handful of chopped nuts like almonds, pecans, or walnuts to the crumble topping for a crunchy texture.
- Coconut Lovers: Sprinkle shredded coconut over the jam layer before baking for a tropical twist.
- Citrus Burst: Add a bit of fresh lemon or orange zest to the dough for a refreshing citrus note that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the jam.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle melted chocolate over the top for a touch of indulgence.
Why You Should Try This Dessert Recipe Today
If you’re a fan of easy dessert recipes that pack a punch of flavor, Jam Jam Bars are a must-try. They’re simple, versatile, and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because you’re craving something sweet, these bars are always a hit.
Don’t miss out—try this dessert recipe and discover your new favorite treat. Jam Jam Bars are proof that sometimes, the simplest desserts are the most delicious.
Jam Jam Bars Dessert Recipe
Equipment
- Stand mixer with paddle attachment
- 8 × 8-inch square baking pan
- Parchment paper
Ingredients
Base Dough:
- ½ cup 1 stick unsalted butter, at room temperature
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 large egg at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
Filling and Topping:
- ½ cup fruit jam or preserves of your choice
- Confectioners’ sugar for topping (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Line an 8 × 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring the paper extends over the edges for easy removal.
Make the Dough:
- In a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, combine the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar.
- Begin on low speed until the mixture is combined, then increase to medium-high and beat for about 2 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, and continue mixing on medium-high speed until smooth, about 30 seconds.
Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the flour, baking soda, and salt to the butter mixture.
- Mix on low speed until fully incorporated, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Assemble the Bars:
- Use your hands to press about two-thirds of the dough into the bottom of the prepared pan, creating an even layer.
- Spread the fruit jam evenly over the dough.
- Take the remaining dough, break it into small clusters, and scatter them over the jam, leaving some jam exposed for a rustic look.
Bake:
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are set.
Cool and Serve:
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a cooling rack.
- Use the parchment paper to lift the bars out of the pan.
- Cut into 12 rectangular bars.
- Dust with confectioners’ sugar if desired before serving.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, you can use raspberry or mixed berry jam instead of strawberry.
- These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Adjust the amount of jam for a sweeter or more balanced flavor.
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.