Name: Streusel Topped Raspberry Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 cup All-purpose flour; 1/4 cup Powdered sugar; 1 dash Salt; 6 tablespoons Butter (cold and cut into pieces); 1 cup Fresh raspberries (fresh or frozen)

Streusel Topped Raspberry Squares are an irresistible treat that combines the tartness of fresh raspberries with a buttery, crumbly topping. These squares are perfect for afternoon tea, dessert, or even as a snack during your busy day. The balance of sweet and tart flavors, along with the delightful texture of the streusel, makes these squares a must-try.

Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft, chewy base layered with juicy raspberries and topped with a golden, crisp streusel. It’s a dessert that feels both comforting and elegant. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, these raspberry squares are sure to please.

Why I Love This Recipe

What I adore about these Streusel Topped Raspberry Squares is their versatility. They’re perfect for any occasion—be it a summer picnic, a cozy winter gathering, or simply a delightful way to enjoy a quiet afternoon at home. The recipe is straightforward, making it accessible even for novice bakers. Plus, you can easily swap the raspberries for other berries or fruits depending on your preference or what you have on hand.

The combination of buttery goodness and vibrant raspberry flavor creates a dessert that is not only beautiful but also incredibly delicious. Each bite melts in your mouth, leaving you wanting more. It’s no wonder these squares have become a staple in my dessert repertoire.

What to Buy

To make these delectable Streusel Topped Raspberry Squares, gather the following ingredients:

Flour: 1 cup of all-purpose flour is the base for both the crust and the streusel topping.
Powdered Sugar: 1/4 cup for sweetness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Salt: A dash of salt to enhance the flavors.
Butter: 6 tablespoons cold and cut into pieces, which adds richness and flavor.
Fresh Raspberries: About 1 cup, fresh or frozen, for that burst of tartness.

Tools of the Trade

To whip up these delicious squares, you will need a few essential tools:

Mixing Bowls: A set of varying sizes for mixing the dough and streusel.
Baking Dish: An 8×8 inch square pan works perfectly for baking the squares.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key for baking success.
Pastry Cutter or Fork: Ideal for cutting in the butter to create a crumbly streusel topping.
Spatula: Great for spreading the raspberry filling evenly.

Stepwise Method: Streusel Topped Raspberry Squares

Step 1: Prepare the Base

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and a dash of salt. Mix well to ensure the dry ingredients are evenly distributed. Add the cold butter pieces and use a pastry cutter or fork to blend the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 2: Create the Crust

Press about two-thirds of the flour mixture into the bottom of your greased 8×8 inch baking dish. Make sure it’s evenly spread and packed down. This will form the base of your squares.

Step 3: Add the Raspberries

Evenly distribute the fresh raspberries over the crust. If you’re using frozen raspberries, there’s no need to thaw them first; just sprinkle them on top.

Step 4: Make the Streusel Topping

Take the remaining flour mixture and add a little more cold butter, mixing it together until crumbly. Sprinkle this streusel topping generously over the raspberries, ensuring an even coverage.

Step 5: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the squares for about 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the raspberries are bubbling.

Step 6: Cool and Slice

Once baked, remove the squares from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes. After cooling, slice them into squares and serve warm or at room temperature.

Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions

If you’re missing an ingredient or want to make a few adjustments, consider these swaps:

Flour: Whole wheat flour can be used for a nuttier flavor.
Butter: Coconut oil or vegan butter can replace butter for a dairy-free option.
Raspberries: Substitute with blueberries, blackberries, or even diced strawberries for a different berry delight.
Powdered Sugar: You can use regular granulated sugar if needed; just blend it finely in a food processor.

Mistakes Even Pros Make

Even seasoned bakers can stumble when making Streusel Topped Raspberry Squares. Here are common pitfalls to avoid:

Not using cold butter: This is crucial for achieving that perfect crumbly texture in the streusel.
Overmixing the crust: Mixing too much can lead to tough squares instead of tender ones.
Skipping the cooling step: Cutting the squares too early can result in a messy, unformed dessert.
Using too many raspberries: While they’re delicious, too many can make the squares soggy.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

To keep your Streusel Topped Raspberry Squares in perfect condition:

Cooling: Allow the squares to cool completely in the pan before slicing.
Storing: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Rewarming: For a warm treat, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

Questions People Ask

Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen raspberries work wonderfully in this recipe! There’s no need to thaw them; just add them directly to the crust.

How do I know when the squares are done baking?

The squares are done when the streusel topping is golden brown, and the raspberries are bubbling around the edges. A toothpick inserted into the crust should come out clean.

Can I make these squares ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake them a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container and let them come to room temperature before serving.

What can I serve with these raspberry squares?

These squares pair beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a drizzle of salted caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat.

Make It Tonight

There’s no better time than now to whip up a batch of these delightful Streusel Topped Raspberry Squares. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a mouthwatering treat that everyone will adore. Don’t wait—get into the kitchen and create something delicious tonight!

Embrace the joy of baking, and let the sweet aroma of fresh raspberries and buttery streusel fill your home. You won’t regret it!