Gluten Free Raspberry Bars

These Gluten Free Raspberry Bars are a delightful treat that brings the comforting flavors of raspberry and coconut into a gluten-free dessert. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are not only easy to make but also burst with flavor. They are an excellent choice for potlucks, family gatherings, or simply a sweet snack at home. With their chewy texture and fruity filling, no one will even notice they’re gluten-free!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of raspberry preserves and shredded coconut creates a sweet and tangy taste that everyone will love.
• Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Allergy-Friendly: These bars cater to various dietary needs, ensuring that gluten-sensitive friends can indulge without worry.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a dessert, snack, or even breakfast option paired with coffee or tea.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Their beautiful presentation and rich flavor make these bars ideal for sharing at events.

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Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather your tools and set up your kitchen. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13 inch baking dish: This size is perfect for getting the right thickness for your bars while ensuring even cooking.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort in blending butter and sugars smoothly, giving your bars a light texture.

Ingredients

These gluten free raspberry bars are an allergy friendly version of my grandma’s amazing raspberry coconut bars. SO good, no one will miss the gluten!

For the Base

• 3/4 cup Butter (softened)
• 2 Tbsp Granulated sugar
• 2 Large eggs
• 1 Tbsp Milk
• 1 tsp Vanilla
• ½ cup Sorghum flour
• ½ cup Brown rice flour
• 1/4 cup Coconut flour
• 1 Tbsp Tapioca starch
• 1 tsp Xanthan gum
• 1 tsp Baking powder
• ½ tsp Salt

For the Topping

• 3/4 cup Raspberry preserves
• 2 Large eggs
• 1 ½ cups Granulated sugar
• 3 cups Shredded coconut
• 3 Tbsp Butter (melted)
• 1 tsp Vanilla

How to Make Gluten Free Raspberry Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your gluten free raspberry bars bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Grease the 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Make the Base Mixture

In a mixing bowl:
1. Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
2. Add in the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract, mixing well until combined.
3. In another bowl, combine sorghum flour, brown rice flour, coconut flour, tapioca starch, xanthan gum, baking powder, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Spread the Base in the Dish

Pour the base mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a rubber spatula to spread it evenly across the bottom.

Step 5: Add Raspberry Preserves

Spread raspberry preserves over the base layer evenly.

Step 6: Prepare Coconut Topping

In a separate bowl:
1. Mix together melted butter, eggs, granulated sugar, shredded coconut, and vanilla until well blended.
2. Pour this mixture over the raspberry layer in your baking dish.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for about 40 minutes or until golden brown on top. Allow cooling before cutting into squares.

Enjoy your delicious Gluten Free Raspberry Bars!

How to Serve Gluten Free Raspberry Bars

These gluten free raspberry bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging at home, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

Pair with Fresh Whipped Cream

• A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a rich and creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the tartness of the raspberry bars.

Serve with Vanilla Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream provides a refreshing and creamy complement to the sweet and tangy flavors of the gluten free raspberry bars.

Accompany with Fresh Berries

• Fresh berries like blueberries or strawberries not only add color but also enhance the fruity flavor profile of these bars.

Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce

• A light drizzle of chocolate sauce can bring an extra layer of sweetness and decadence to your dessert presentation.

Enjoy with Coffee or Tea

• Pairing these bars with a hot cup of coffee or tea makes for a cozy afternoon treat, perfect for gatherings or quiet moments at home.

How to Perfect Gluten Free Raspberry Bars

To ensure your gluten free raspberry bars come out perfectly every time, consider these handy tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Using softened butter and room temperature eggs helps create a smooth batter and ensures even baking.

• Measure Flour Accurately: Use a kitchen scale or spoon-and-level method to measure your flours accurately for consistent results.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix until just combined to keep the texture light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to dense bars.

• Check for Doneness: Start checking your bars a few minutes before the timer goes off. They should be golden on top and set in the center.

• Cool Completely Before Cutting: Allow your bars to cool completely before slicing. This prevents them from falling apart and makes for cleaner cuts.

Best Side Dishes for Gluten Free Raspberry Bars

Gluten free raspberry bars make an excellent dessert, but they can also be complemented by delicious side dishes. Here are some ideas that pair well:

1. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and fresh fruits for a healthy side that balances sweetness.

2. Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad adds freshness and contrast, making it a light accompaniment to rich desserts.

3. Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese alongside nuts and dried fruits for a savory option that complements the sweetness.

4. Coffee Cake: A slice of gluten free coffee cake offers another sweet option, perfect for brunch gatherings or afternoon teas.

5. Chia Seed Pudding: This nutritious pudding can be made ahead of time and provides a refreshing contrast in texture when served alongside the bars.

6. Nutty Granola Bars: Homemade granola bars can offer crunch and energy, making them an excellent snack alongside the softer raspberry treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Gluten Free Raspberry Bars even more delicious. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using the wrong flour: Different gluten-free flours behave differently. Stick to the recommended blend for the best texture.
• Skipping the xanthan gum: This ingredient is crucial for binding. Omitting it can lead to crumbly bars.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision, ensuring consistent results every time.
• Overbaking the bars: Keep an eye on them in the oven. Overbaking can dry out your bars and ruin their texture.
• Ignoring cooling time: Allow your bars to cool completely before cutting. This helps them set and prevents crumbling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• They can last up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Gluten Free Raspberry Bars

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they will stay fresh for up to three months.

Reheating Gluten Free Raspberry Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat for 15-20 seconds on medium power for a soft treat.
• Stovetop: Place in a non-stick pan over low heat until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Gluten Free Raspberry Bars:

What are Gluten Free Raspberry Bars?

Gluten Free Raspberry Bars are dessert squares made with gluten-free flours and raspberry preserves, offering a sweet, chewy treat without gluten.

Can I use fresh raspberries instead of preserves?

Yes, you can use fresh raspberries, but you might need to adjust the sugar and cooking time since fresh fruit has more moisture.

How do I know when my Gluten Free Raspberry Bars are done baking?

They are done when the edges start to pull away from the pan and a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean or with just a few crumbs.

Can I customize my Gluten Free Raspberry Bars?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, seeds, or different flavors of fruit preserves to make them your own.

Are these bars suitable for other dietary restrictions?

Yes! They’re gluten-free and can be made dairy-free by substituting butter with a plant-based alternative.

Final Thoughts

These Gluten Free Raspberry Bars are not only delightful but also versatile, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as a snack or dessert, you can easily customize them with different flavors or toppings. Give this recipe a try and indulge in its deliciousness!