Jam Shortbread Bars Recipe

If you have a soft spot for buttery, crumbly cookies paired with a burst of fruity sweetness, you are going to fall head over heels for these Jam Shortbread Bars. This delightful dessert blends a rich, tender shortbread base with vibrant jam nestled right in the center, then topped with a crumbly topping that bakes to golden perfection. Each bite offers the perfect harmony of textures and flavors, making Jam Shortbread Bars an irresistible treat to enjoy any time of the day. Whether you’re serving them at a cozy gathering or sneaking one with your afternoon tea, these bars will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All the magic behind these Jam Shortbread Bars comes from simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that work beautifully together. Each component adds something important—texture, sweetness, or that buttery richness that makes every bite memorable.

• Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Provides a rich, creamy base that creates the perfect shortbread texture.
• Granulated sugar (1/2 cup plus 1/4 cup): Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the buttery dough and tart jam.
• All-purpose flour (2 1/4 cups total): Gives structure and tenderness to both the crust and the crumbly topping.
• Cornstarch (1/4 cup): Helps achieve an extra delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon plus 1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and cuts through the sweetness.
• Jam of your choice (1 cup): Bursting with fruity goodness, this is the star flavor that brings these 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. This step ensures your bars will come out easily without any sticking, making cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Make the Shortbread Base

In a large bowl, beat together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and ½ cup granulated sugar until the mixture turns smooth and creamy. This is the foundation of your bars, so take your time to get it just right—creamy butter makes for tender shortbread!

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

Add 2 cups of all-purpose flour and ¼ teaspoon of salt to your buttery mixture. Stir everything together until it forms a crumbly dough. Press this dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan, creating a sturdy yet tender base for the jam layer.

Step 4: Bake the Shortbread

Bake the base for 15 to 20 minutes or until it is lightly golden around the edges. Pull it from the oven and let it cool slightly—that way, your jam won’t melt and become runny when added.

Step 5: Add the Jam Layer

Spread 1 cup of your favorite jam evenly over the cooled shortbread base. You can experiment with any flavor you like—raspberry, apricot, strawberry—and enjoy a new twist every time.

Step 6: Prepare the Topping

In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, ¼ cup of granulated sugar, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Cut in ½ cup of cold butter until the mixture reaches coarse crumbs. This crumbly topping will add a delightful texture contrast on the finished bars.

Step 7: Add Topping to the Bars

Sprinkle the crumbly topping evenly over your jam layer. Make sure it covers the jam completely to achieve that signature Jam Shortbread Bars look and texture.

Step 8: Bake Again

Return the baking pan to the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the topping is beautifully golden brown. Your kitchen will smell heavenly during this time, so get ready for compliments!

Step 9: Cool and Slice

Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Cooling is key—it lets the jam set and the bars firm up for easier slicing into perfect squares or rectangles.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Jam Shortbread Bars with a warm cup of coffee or tea, or enjoy them as a sweet snack whenever cravings strike. Every bite offers a blissful connection of buttery shortbread and luscious fruity jam.

How to Serve Jam Shortbread Bars

Garnishes

To jazz up your Jam Shortbread Bars, sprinkle a dusting of powdered sugar on top for a delicate, snowy effect. Fresh berries or a small dollop of whipped cream also add a beautiful touch and extra burst of flavor.

Side Dishes

These bars pair wonderfully with light treats such as fruit salad or a crisp green tea to keep the focus on their luscious jammy notes. They are also fantastic alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more indulgent dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice your Jam Shortbread Bars into bite-sized pieces and arrange them on a platter with small dessert forks for an elegant party presentation. Alternatively, serve them stacked with a drizzle of melted chocolate or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for added texture and flavor contrast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Jam Shortbread Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They remain wonderfully fresh and perfect for snacking without losing their buttery crunch or fruity vibrance.

Freezing

Jam Shortbread Bars freeze very well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature and enjoy that fresh-baked taste.

Reheating

If you want to warm your bars, pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes. This will refresh the buttery crust and make the jam slightly gooey again, just like when they come out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I use any type of jam for Jam Shortbread Bars?

Absolutely! Feel free to use whatever jam you love. Raspberry, strawberry, apricot, or even marmalade all work wonderfully. Choose based on your flavor preference or what you have on hand.

Is there a gluten-free option for the shortbread bars?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Just be sure the blend you choose contains xanthan gum or a similar binder to maintain the crumbly texture.

What’s the best way to cut the bars without them falling apart?

Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing, as this helps the jam set and the shortbread firm up. Using a sharp knife and wiping it clean between cuts also gives cleaner edges and prevents crumbling.

Can I make the shortbread base and topping ahead of time?

While it’s best to assemble and bake fresh, you can prepare the crumbly topping in advance and store it in the fridge for a day or two. The shortbread dough is best used right away for optimal texture.

How can I make Jam Shortbread Bars more festive for holidays?

Try using seasonal jams like cranberry or fig, and add a sprinkle of chopped nuts or festive-colored sugar crystals on top before baking. A drizzle of white chocolate after baking can also make them extra special.

Final Thoughts

These Jam Shortbread Bars are a true gem—simple ingredients come together to create a treat that feels both cozy and indulgent. Once you try them, you’ll see why they remain a beloved classic. So go ahead, bake a batch, share with loved ones, and savor every buttery, jam-filled bite. Trust me, your kitchen will thank you!

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