Lemon and Rosemary Infused Blackberry Bars

Why You'll Love Making This

These bars combine the bright tartness of lemon with the earthy aroma of rosemary, perfectly complementing the sweet and juicy blackberries. They offer a fresh twist on classic fruit bars, making each bite flavorful and refreshing. Plus, they are easy to make and great for sharing.

Helpful Tips For Cooking

- Use fresh rosemary for the best aroma, but crush it lightly to release the oils without overpowering the fruit.
- Make sure the blackberries are ripe but firm to prevent the bars from becoming too soggy.
- Chill the bars well before cutting to help them hold their shape and make slicing easier.

Step 1

Gently heat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining an 8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, making sure to leave some overhang on two sides for easy removal later. In a small bowl, mix together the flour, oats, butter, brown sugar, vanilla, and salt with a fork until it’s crumbly. Pop this mixture in the fridge to chill while you work on the rest.

Step 2

Beat the butter and powdered sugar together until it’s light and creamy. Add the eggs and egg yolk one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in the lemon zest, rosemary, and vanilla extract to give it a fresh, fragrant flavor.

Step 3

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the butter mixture in a few batches, mixing until you get a thick dough. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan.

Step 4

Scatter the blackberries over the dough, then take the crumb topping from the fridge, give it a quick stir, and sprinkle it evenly over the berries. Gently press the topping down so it sticks a bit.

Step 5

Bake for about 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the bars cool completely on a wire rack for about an hour. Use the parchment paper edges to lift the whole slab out of the pan, then slice into 12 bars with a serrated knife. Enjoy!

Great Ways To Serve

Serve these bars slightly chilled or at room temperature for the best texture. They pair wonderfully with a cup of herbal tea or a glass of sparkling water with a lemon wedge. For a special touch, add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Storing Food Safely

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh for up to five days. You can also freeze them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge before serving to maintain their texture and flavor.