These Raspberry Almond Fruit Squares stand out for their delightful blend of tart raspberries and rich almond flavors, creating a balanced and satisfying dessert.
The recipe combines wholesome ingredients like almond paste, fresh fruit, oats, and nuts, delivering a treat that’s not only indulgent but also nutrient-dense.
Raspberry Almond Fruit Squares
Equipment
- 1 Food processor
- 1 9×13-Inch Baking Pan
- 1 Roll of Parchment Paper
- 1 Whisk
- 1 Wire cooling rack
Ingredients
- ½ cup almond paste about 5 ounces
- ¾ cup unsalted butter softened to room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup seedless raspberry jam
- 4 cups fresh raspberries
For the crumb topping:
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar
- ¾ cup sliced almonds
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Pan:Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with a long strip of parchment paper, ensuring the edges hang over the sides to help lift out the bars later. This will prevent sticking and make removal effortless.
- Make the Almond Crust:In a food processor, combine the almond paste and softened butter. Pulse until smooth and creamy. Add the sugar and egg, then process again until fully blended. Gradually add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, pulsing until the mixture forms a soft, cohesive dough. Press this dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan, creating a firm base.
- Prepare Raspberry Filling:In a bowl, whisk the raspberry jam until smooth. Gently fold in the fresh raspberries, carefully coating them with the jam without breaking the berries. Spread this fruit mixture evenly over the almond crust layer.
- Make the Crumb Topping:In a separate bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, and sliced almonds. Pour the melted butter over the dry ingredients and stir with a fork until coarse crumbs form. Evenly sprinkle this crumb mixture over the raspberry layer.
- Bake the Squares:Place the baking dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the topping turns a light golden brown and the filling is bubbling slightly at the edges.
- Cool and Slice:Remove the pan from the oven and transfer it to a wire cooling rack. Let the fruit squares cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, use the parchment paper edges to lift the entire block out of the pan. Place it on a cutting board and slice into 20 to 24 squares.
Notes
- Almond Paste Tip: If almond paste is unavailable, you can substitute with finely ground almonds mixed with a little sugar and butter, though the texture will slightly differ.
- Fruit Variations: This recipe is versatile—feel free to swap raspberries with strawberries, blueberries, or mixed berries depending on what’s fresh and in season.
- Jam Choice: Use a smooth, seedless jam for the best texture in the filling; chunky jams may create uneven pockets.
- Storage: Store the squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. They also freeze well—wrap tightly and thaw before serving.
- Crispier Topping: For an extra crunchy topping, toast the sliced almonds lightly before mixing into the crumb topping.
Almond paste and sliced almonds contribute plant-based protein and heart-healthy fats, while the oats and raspberries add fiber to support digestion and keep you full longer.
This dessert offers a moderate sugar content balanced by the natural sweetness of the fruit, making it a more mindful option compared to typical sugary bars.
Its straightforward preparation and versatility with seasonal fruits make it an excellent choice for everyday cooking, meal prep, or casual gatherings.
Whether baked in the oven or air fryer, these squares provide a delicious, approachable way to enjoy a nutritious homemade treat.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Food Processor
Essential for blending almond paste, butter, and dry ingredients into a smooth, cohesive dough. This versatile appliance saves time and ensures even mixing, making it a kitchen staple for doughs, sauces, and purees.
9×13-Inch Baking Pan
Ideal for evenly baking large batches of bars or squares. Its size allows for perfect thickness and browning, while its compatibility with parchment paper ensures easy removal and cleanup.
Parchment Paper
Key for lining the baking pan to prevent sticking and simplify removal of the dessert. It also reduces the need for extra greasing, promoting healthier baking.
Whisk
Used to smooth the jam before mixing with raspberries, helping to evenly coat the fruit and enhance flavor distribution. A whisk is indispensable for sauces, batters, and emulsions in any kitchen.
Wire Cooling Rack
Allows baked goods to cool evenly and quickly, preventing sogginess by promoting air circulation around the pan. This tool is essential for maintaining perfect texture in baked desserts.
Chef’s Secrets for Perfect Squares
Creating these raspberry almond fruit squares is all about balancing textures and flavors for maximum enjoyment.
Using almond paste instead of just ground almonds adds a rich, buttery depth to the crust that’s hard to beat.
Make sure your butter is at room temperature to blend smoothly with the almond paste and sugar, ensuring a tender base.
When mixing the jam and raspberries, gently fold them together to prevent crushing the fruit, which helps maintain bursts of fresh flavor and a pleasing texture.
For the crumb topping, melting the butter before mixing helps create those golden, crisp clusters that add delightful crunch.
Finally, letting the squares cool completely before slicing is crucial; it allows the filling to set properly and prevents the layers from sliding apart when cut.
Serving Suggestions to Impress Everyone
These squares are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways.
Serve them slightly warmed with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
They also pair beautifully with a cup of afternoon tea or coffee, making them a perfect snack or breakfast treat.
For a fresh twist, drizzle with a little honey or a sprinkle of powdered sugar just before serving.
If you’re hosting, cut the squares into smaller bite-sized pieces for a charming finger food option at parties or gatherings.
Storage Tips for Freshness and Flavor
To keep your raspberry almond fruit squares fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature if you plan to eat them within 2-3 days.
For longer storage, refrigeration is best, where they will keep well for up to a week.
If you want to prepare ahead or save leftovers, these squares freeze beautifully.
Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil or place them in a freezer-safe container.
When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or gently warm in the oven to revive their crumbly texture and fresh flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipe
Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen raspberries can be used but drain any excess liquid to avoid a soggy crust. Gently fold them with the jam while still partially frozen to maintain shape.
Is almond paste necessary, or can I substitute it?
Almond paste provides richness and moisture that ground almonds alone don’t offer. If unavailable, finely ground almonds mixed with a bit of butter and sugar can work but may alter texture.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free to make this recipe safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
What’s the best way to prevent the crumb topping from burning?
Keep an eye on the baking time and tent the pan loosely with foil if the topping browns too quickly, especially toward the end of baking.
How can I make this recipe with less sugar?
Reduce the sugar slightly in the crust and topping, and use a low-sugar or natural fruit spread instead of traditional jam. Keep in mind this may affect texture and sweetness balance.
