Raspberry CVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)ble Bars

A delightful treat for any occasion, Raspberry CVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)ble Bars combine a shortbread-like cookie base with a luscious raspberry lemon filling. This recipe is perfect for gatherings, afternoon snacks, or dessert after dinner. Not only are these bars gluten-free and vegan, but they also pack a flavorful punch that will impress your family and friends!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you can whip these up in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of tart raspberries and zesty lemon creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Versatile Treat: Great for parties, picnics, or just a sweet snack at home.
• Diet-Friendly: Gluten-free, vegan, and dairy-free options make it suitable for various dietary needs.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dessert is sure to impress both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To make the preparation process smoother, gather the essential tools before starting. Having everything ready will help you follow the steps easily.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8-inch square baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• 8-inch square baking pan: Perfect size for even baking and easy slicing into bars.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spills.
• Rubber spatula: Helps to mix ingredients thoroughly and scrape every bit from the bowl.

Ingredients

To create your delicious Raspberry CVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)ble Bars, gather the following ingredients:

For the Cookie Base

• 1 1/2 cups gluten-free flour
• 1/3 cup cane sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 8 tablespoons dairy free butter
• 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
• 1/3 cup pecans (finely chopped)
• 1/4 cup gluten free old fashioned rolled oats
• plus 1/3 reserved cup of the cookie base dough

For the Filling

• 3/4 cup raspberry preserves
• 3/4 cup fresh raspberries
• 2 1/4 teaspoons fresh lemon juice

How to Make Raspberry CVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)ble Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. This ensures that your bars bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper. Allow the paper to hang over the edges or tuck it in such that you can lift it out easily once the bars are baked.

Step 3: Mix the Cookie Base Ingredients

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine gluten-free flour, cane sugar, salt, dairy-free butter, and brown sugar.
2. Mix until crumbly.
3. Add chopped pecans and rolled oats.

Step 4: Assemble the Bars

1. Reserve 1/3 cup of the cookie base dough for topping.
2. Press the remaining dough into an even layer in the prepared baking pan.
3. Spread raspberry preserves over the cookie layer evenly.
4. Scatter fresh raspberries on top followed by fresh lemon juice.

Step 5: Add Topping and Bake

1. Crumble reserved cookie dough over the raspberry filling.
2. Bake in preheated oven for about 40 minutes or until golden brown around the edges.

Let cool before slicing into bars. Enjoy your delicious Raspberry CVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)ble Bars!

How to Serve Raspberry CVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)ble Bars

Serving Raspberry CVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)ble Bars can elevate any dessert table or casual gathering. These vibrant bars are not only delightful on their own but can be complemented with various toppings and accompaniments.

Top with Fresh Berries

• Adding fresh raspberries or strawberries on top enhances the fruity flavor and adds a pop of color.

Serve with Coconut Whipped Cream

• Light and fluffy coconut whipped cream pairs beautifully, adding creaminess without dairy.

Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce

• A rich chocolate sauce drizzled over the bars brings a decadent touch that chocolate lovers will adore.

Pair with Herbal Tea

• A warm cup of herbal tea balances the sweetness of the bars and provides a cozy, relaxing experience.

Add a Scoop of Sorbet

• A refreshing scoop of lemon or raspberry sorbet complements the flavors while providing a cool contrast.

Garnish with Lemon Zest

• Sprinkling lemon zest on top adds an aromatic freshness that brightens every bite.

How to Perfect Raspberry CVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)ble Bars

Making perfect Raspberry CVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)ble Bars is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips for stellar results.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring your butter is at room temperature allows for better blending and results in a smoother dough.

• Don’t overmix: Mixing just until combined prevents toughness in your cookie base, keeping it tender and crumbly.

• Measure accurately: Use precise measurements for flour and sugar to maintain the right texture and sweetness level.

• Chill if necessary: If your dough becomes too soft, chilling it for 15-30 minutes can make it easier to handle.

• Test for doneness: Keep an eye on baking time; the edges should be lightly golden, while the center remains soft but set.

• Let cool completely: Allowing the bars to cool completely before cutting helps them hold their shape better.

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

Raspberry CVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)ble Bars work well alongside various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness, balancing the sweetness of the bars.

2. Almond Biscotti: Crunchy almond biscotti offers a delightful contrast in texture and pairs well with coffee or tea.

3. Chia Seed Pudding: This creamy, nutritious pudding made with almond milk provides a light complement to these dessert bars.

4. Cinnamon Sugar Tortillas: Warm tortillas coated in cinnamon sugar create a sweet, crispy side that kids will love.

5. Granola Parfait: Layers of granola, yogurt, and berries create an appealing presentation that’s both tasty and healthy.

6. Savory Cheese Platter: A selection of vegan cheeses paired with crackers offers a savory counterpart to the sweet bars.

7. Caramelized Apples: Sweetened apples sautéed in coconut oil bring warmth and comfort to this dessert pairing.

8. Nutty Trail Mix: A crunchy trail mix made from nuts, seeds, and dried fruit adds protein while balancing out sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Raspberry CVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)ble Bars, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

• Using the wrong flour: Gluten-free flour is essential for this recipe. Regular flour will not yield the same results. Always check that your flour blend is gluten-free.

• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough bars. Mix until ingredients are just combined for a tender texture.

• Skipping the parchment paper: Not lining the pan with parchment can make it difficult to remove the bars after baking. Always use parchment paper for easy removal.

• Not measuring accurately: Baking is a science, and accurate measurements are crucial. Use proper measuring cups for dry and liquid ingredients.

• Ignoring cooling time: Cutting the bars too soon can cause them to crumble. Allow them to cool completely in the pan before slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Raspberry CVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)ble Bars in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Raspberry CVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)ble Bars

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container or bag, where they can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Raspberry CVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)ble Bars

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place bars on a baking sheet and warm for about 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 15-20 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Raspberry CVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)ble Bars:

Can I use other fruits instead of raspberries?

Yes! You can swap raspberries with blueberries, strawberries, or mixed berries according to your preference.

How do I make these bars nut-free?

To make Raspberry CVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)ble Bars nut-free, simply omit the pecans or replace them with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.

Are these bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! This recipe uses gluten-free flour, making it suitable for those who need gluten-free options.

How should I serve Raspberry CVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)ble Bars?

These bars are delicious on their own but pair well with vegan ice cream or coconut whipped cream for an extra treat!

Final Thoughts

Raspberry CVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)ble Bars offer a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Their versatility allows for customization with different fruits and toppings. Give this recipe a try for an impressive dessert that everyone will love!