Jam Shortbread Bars Recipe

If you’re craving a sweet treat that perfectly balances buttery crumbly goodness with a burst of fruity flavor, these Jam Shortbread Bars are about to become your new favorite. Imagine a tender, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread base layered with vibrant jam, topped with a delicate crumb topping that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re sharing them at a cozy afternoon tea or gifting a batch to friends, these bars bring warmth and joy to every bite. Trust me, once you make these Jam Shortbread Bars, they’ll quickly become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple ingredients come together to make these bars both delicious and approachable. Each item plays a key role: the buttery richness creates the perfect shortbread texture, the jam adds a fruity zing, and the flour and sugar bind everything into the perfect balance of crumb and sweetness.

• Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Provides a rich, creamy base that makes the shortbread tender and flavorful.
• Granulated sugar (½ cup): Adds balanced sweetness and helps achieve that crisp crumb texture.
• All-purpose flour (2 cups for base + 1 cup for topping): The backbone of the bars, giving structure without being tough.
• Cornstarch (¼ cup): Ensures a delicate, meltaway shortbread texture that’s light yet sturdy.
• Salt (¼ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors, balancing sweetness and enriching the buttery notes.
• Jam of your choice (1 cup): Your opportunity to add vibrant flavor – whether classic raspberry or exotic apricot, it brings the bars to life.

How to Make Jam Shortbread Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure your bars come out perfectly without sticking — this first step is crucial for a flawless finish.

Step 2: Make the Shortbread Base

In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until it’s smooth and creamy. This creamy stage is what gives the shortbread its melt-in-your-mouth quality, so take your time here!

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

Add the all-purpose flour and salt, stirring gently until the dough turns crumbly. This crumbly texture is exactly what you want to gently press into the pan to become that luscious shortbread base.

Step 4: Bake the Shortbread

Press the dough evenly into your prepared baking pan and bake for 15 to 20 minutes until you see a lovely light golden hue. This pre-bake ensures the base is sturdy enough to support the luscious jam that’s coming next.

Step 5: Add the Jam Layer

Once the base has cooled just a bit, spread a full cup of your favorite jam evenly over the surface. Feel free to get creative with flavors here — from strawberry to mixed berry, this layer is where your personality shines.

Step 6: Prepare the Topping

In a separate bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt, then cut in cold butter until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. This topping adds that perfect crumbly contrast with every bite, making the bars irresistible.

Step 7: Add Topping to the Bars

Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the jam layer, generously covering every bit. This step creates that signature crunchy finish on your Jam Shortbread Bars.

Step 8: Bake Again

Pop the pan back in the oven for another 20 to 25 minutes until the topping turns beautifully golden brown. This final bake melds the layers together into a harmonious treat that’s as lovely to look at as it is to eat.

Step 9: Cool and Slice

Let the bars cool completely in the pan — patience really pays off here! Once cooled, slice into squares or rectangles, ready to wow your taste buds or guests.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Now for the best part: serving these gorgeous Jam Shortbread Bars! Pair them with a warm cup of tea or coffee, and savor each bite of buttery, fruity bliss.

How to Serve Jam Shortbread Bars

Garnishes

Enhance presentation and flavor by sprinkling a light dusting of powdered sugar on top just before serving. For a fresh touch, add a few whole berries or a mint sprig to each plate — these little details elevate the experience.

Side Dishes

Jam Shortbread Bars shine wonderfully with a side of whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or even a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast. Fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or blueberries can also brighten up your dessert spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the bars into bite-sized squares and serving them on a decorative platter with small forks or toothpicks. They also make charming gifts — wrap a few in parchment paper tied with twine for a homemade surprise that anyone would adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your Jam Shortbread Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. They maintain their delightful texture and flavor, perfect for quick snacks or last-minute dessert fixes.

Freezing

Wrap the cooled bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a resealable freezer bag. Frozen Jam Shortbread Bars keep well for up to two months and thaw beautifully at room temperature, making them handy for future cravings.

Reheating

If you like your bars slightly warmed, pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F for just 5 to 7 minutes. This softens the jam and refreshes the buttery aroma without drying out the crumb topping.

FAQs

Can I use any type of jam for these bars?

Absolutely! The beauty of Jam Shortbread Bars is their versatility. Whether you prefer raspberry, strawberry, apricot, or even more exotic flavors like blackberry or peach, any jam you love will work wonderfully.

What if I don’t have cornstarch?

Cornstarch helps create a tender texture in the shortbread, but if you don’t have it on hand, you can substitute with an equal amount of all-purpose flour. The bars will still be tasty, just slightly less delicate.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, by swapping the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup, you can enjoy gluten-free Jam Shortbread Bars. Just be sure your baking powder (if any) is gluten-free as well.

How long do Jam Shortbread Bars keep fresh?

Stored properly in an airtight container, these bars stay fresh and delicious for up to three days at room temperature. For longer storage, freezing is your best friend.

Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?

Definitely! Doubling is straightforward—just use a larger pan (like 9×13 inches) and adjust baking times slightly, checking for golden edges and cooked centers as your cue to remove from the oven.

Final Thoughts

Jam Shortbread Bars are the kind of treat that feel like a warm hug on a plate, and I can’t recommend them enough. They’re simple, comforting, and utterly delicious, making them perfect for any occasion or just a little indulgence at home. Go ahead, give them a try — your taste buds will thank you!

Print