Written by Isabelle · Updated July 2026

Blackberry Jam Bars Recipe

These sweet and tangy blackberry jam bars are a cinch to make and are perfect for a quick dessert or snack. We love how the combination of a buttery crust and a sweet blackberry jam filling comes together to create a delicious treat that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

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Kitchen Note

When making these bars, be sure to not overbake them, as this can cause the jam to become too runny. Also, make sure to press the crust mixture evenly into the pan to ensure a smooth surface. Lastly, these bars are best served fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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Why these Blackberry Jam Bars work

Perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors
Easy to make with a simple crust and jam filling
Prep time is only 20 minutes
Great for a quick dessert or snack on-the-go
Best for a weekday treat or a weekend brunch

What you’ll need

The key to these bars is the combination of a buttery crust and a sweet blackberry jam filling. The jam is made with fresh blackberries, sugar, and lemon juice, which gives it a nice balance of flavors.

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

2 large eggs
2 cups fresh or frozen blackberries
1 cup blackberry jam
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

Tips for getting this right

Use fresh blackberries for the best flavor
Don’t overbake the bars, as this can cause the jam to become too runny
Press the crust mixture evenly into the pan for a smooth surface
Let the bars cool completely before cutting into them
Store the bars in an airtight container for up to 3 days

Swaps and substitutions

For a gluten-free version, try substituting the all-purpose flour with almond flour. For a protein boost, add some chopped nuts or seeds to the crust mixture. For a vegan version, use a plant-based milk and replace the butter with a vegan alternative. For a sugar-free version, use a sugar substitute like honey or maple syrup.

Storing and reheating

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave a bar for 10-15 seconds or until warmed through. You can also freeze the bars for up to 2 months and thaw them at room temperature when needed. When reheating, make sure to heat them gently to avoid overcooking. To keep the bars fresh, make sure to store them in a cool, dry place.

Common questions

Q1Can I use other types of jam?

Yes, you can use other types of jam, but keep in mind that the flavor and texture may be slightly different. We recommend using a jam with a similar consistency to blackberry jam.

Q2How do I make these bars ahead of time?

You can make the bars ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months and thaw them when needed.

Q3Can I serve these bars at a party?

Yes, these bars are perfect for a party or gathering. You can cut them into smaller pieces and serve them as a dessert or snack.

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