Valentines Treats Raspberry Chocolate Bars

Name: Valentines Treats Raspberry Chocolate Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 16 bars
Ingredients: 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips; 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter; 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup (150g) fresh raspberries; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional for shine)

Highlighted under: Classic Kitchen

I love how these Valentines Treats Raspberry Chocolate Bars blend the tartness of fresh raspberries with rich, smooth chocolate. Each bite is an indulgent experience that's perfect for sharing with someone special or enjoying all on your own. The contrasting flavors and textures create a delightful treat that is not only visually appealing but also satisfying. Whether it’s for a date night or a sweet surprise for a friend, these bars will surely impress anyone who takes a bite!

Created by

Vanessa Whitlock

Last updated on 2026-01-05T17:37:41.043Z

Throughout the years, I've experimented with various combinations of fruit and chocolate, but nothing stands out quite like the balance of raspberry and dark chocolate in these bars. I recall the first time I fused these flavors together; the overall harmony surprised even me. It’s a combination that enhances the depth of flavor while keeping the sweetness in check.

This method is all about layering flavors—starting with a buttery chocolate base, followed by a generous layer of raspberry and topped with more chocolate. The key is to make sure each layer melds perfectly to create that mouthwatering experience. If you’re looking for a dessert that sparks joy, this is it!

        Why You Will Love These Bars
        The bright tartness of raspberries balances perfectly with rich chocolate
A beautiful presentation makes them perfect for gifting or celebrations
The texture contrasts from creamy chocolate to fruity raspberry chunks

      

Mastering the Chocolate Base

The chocolate base is crucial to the richness of these Raspberry Chocolate Bars; using high-quality dark chocolate chips is non-negotiable. Look for a chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for a robust flavor that beautifully complements the tartness of the raspberries. When melting the chocolate and butter, ensure you do so over low heat to prevent scorching — stirring frequently will help achieve a glossy consistency, which is essential for a smooth batter.

Incorporating the eggs into the chocolate mixture requires a careful approach. Adding them one at a time ensures that each egg is fully integrated into the batter before adding the next, which helps maintain the structure of the bars. If the mixture appears too thick after adding the flour, it might be tempting to add more liquid. Resist this! A thick batter contributes to a dense, fudgy texture, which is perfect for holding those raspberry chunks.

Perfecting the Raspberry Layer

The raspberry layer not only adds flavor but also moisture to the bars. When cooking the raspberries with sugar and cornstarch, keep an eye on the heat. Medium heat should allow the raspberries to break down without burning. You'll know it's ready when it thickens to a syrupy consistency, about five minutes, but avoid overcooking; it should still have some texture. Straining the mixture to remove seeds is a personal preference, but it can provide a smoother finish for the bars.

If fresh raspberries aren't available, you can substitute with frozen ones. In that case, simply thaw and drain to capture any excess moisture before using them. This ensures that the raspberry layer won't become too watery, which could affect the consistency of your bars. However, fresh raspberries do yield a vibrant flavor and appealing texture that is hard to replicate.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Base:

1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips
1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Raspberry Layer:

1 cup (150g) fresh raspberries
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Chocolate Topping:

1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional for shine)

Instructions

Prepare the Chocolate Base

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8 inch baking pan. In a medium saucepan, melt the dark chocolate chips and butter over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat, and stir in the sugar until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finally, stir in the vanilla, flour, and salt until just combined.

Create the Raspberry Layer

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the raspberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Cook until the raspberries break down and the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. Strain the mixture to remove seeds, if desired.

Assemble and Bake

Spread half of the chocolate batter into the prepared baking pan. Spoon the cooled raspberry layer over the chocolate, then top it with the remaining chocolate batter. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Prepare Chocolate Topping

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using) until smooth. Pour over the baked bars, spreading evenly. Allow the topping to set before cutting into bars.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For a decorative touch, sprinkle some extra raspberries on top of the chocolate layer before it sets. Additionally, letting the bars cool completely before slicing will give you cleaner edges.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These Raspberry Chocolate Bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerating will extend their freshness for about a week. To freeze, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag; they can last for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving for the best texture.

For serving, consider garnishing the bars with a dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of fresh raspberries for a beautiful presentation. They pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, making them a showstopper for any dessert table. If you’re feeling adventurous, adding a hint of mint or a drizzle of white chocolate can elevate the flavor profile even further.

Troubleshooting Companion

If your chocolate base seems too dry or crumbly after baking, it could be due to overmixing or using too much flour. To prevent this, measure your flour using the spoon-and-level method. Adding a tablespoon of milk or an extra egg can also help create a smoother texture if you encounter this issue. Always check for doneness using a toothpick; clean means it's finished, but a sticky residue can indicate underbaking.

Another common issue is the raspberry layer being too runny. If this happens, try increasing the cornstarch slightly or cooking it down for a few more minutes. Ensuring the mixture cools before layering it onto the chocolate base helps maintain distinct layers and prevents them from blending during baking. Keeping a close eye on the bar's baking time is also essential for achieving those perfectly soft yet firm squares.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen raspberries work well! Just be sure to thaw them and strain excess liquid before using.

→ How should I store these bars?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

→ How can I make these bars sweeter?

You can increase the amount of sugar in the raspberry layer or choose a sweeter chocolate for the topping.