Valentines Treats Raspberry Chocolate Bars

Name: Valentines Treats Raspberry Chocolate Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup fresh raspberries; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon coconut oil; 1/4 cup fresh raspberries; Sea salt for sprinkling

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Recipes

I love creating sweet treats that bring joy, and these Raspberry Chocolate Bars are no exception. The combination of rich chocolate and tart raspberries creates a delightful balance that makes them perfect for sharing on Valentine’s Day. As I was experimenting in the kitchen, I found that adding a hint of vanilla really enhances the flavors, making each bite unforgettable. These bars are not only beautiful but also incredibly easy to make, making them an excellent choice for desserts or gifts for loved ones.

Created by

Jessica Brown

Last updated on 2026-01-05T17:25:34.747Z

These Raspberry Chocolate Bars hold a special place in my heart, especially during the Valentine’s season. I remember the first time I made them; the sweet aroma of melting chocolate blended with fresh raspberries filled my kitchen, and it was love at first bite! What I discovered is that allowing the bars to chill for a couple of hours makes them firmer and enhances the flavors.

Each time I share these bars, they receive rave reviews for their beautiful appearance and delectable taste. I like to sprinkle a bit of sea salt on top right before serving, providing a delightful contrast to the sweetness that everyone finds surprising and delightful!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh raspberry tang
Creamy chocolate texture with a delightful raspberry crunch
Perfect for sharing with loved ones or as a sweet love letter to yourself

Balancing Chocolate and Raspberry Flavors

The beauty of these Raspberry Chocolate Bars lies in the contrast between the rich chocolate and the tartness of the raspberries. Dark chocolate has a natural bitterness that complements the bright flavor of fresh raspberries, creating a harmonious balance. When selecting your chocolate, look for a high-quality brand with at least 60% cacao to ensure depth of flavor. This chocolate will provide a robust base while allowing the raspberries to shine through, making each bite a delightful experience.

Using fresh raspberries is key to achieving that vibrant tang. Frozen raspberries can be used in a pinch, but they may release excess moisture, which can alter the texture of the final bars. If you opt for frozen berries, be sure to thaw and drain them before incorporating them into the batter. Additionally, incorporating the raspberries gently will preserve their structure, giving the bars a pleasing burst of flavor with each bite.

Tips for Perfecting Your Bars

To achieve the perfect texture for your Raspberry Chocolate Bars, it’s crucial not to overmix the batter once the flour is added. Overmixing can lead to dense bars, which is the opposite of what you want. Instead, mix just until you see no dry flour; just a few gentle folds are usually sufficient. This technique will help to ensure that your bars remain tender and moist with a delightful crumb.

Baking time is also critical; keep a close eye on the bars towards the end of the baking process. They are done when the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter. If in doubt, it's better to underbake slightly than to overbake. The bars will continue to set as they cool, resulting in a fudgy center that beautifully contrasts with the crispy edges.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your Raspberry Chocolate Bars:

For the Bars

1 cup dark chocolate chips
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup fresh raspberries

For the Topping

1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil
1/4 cup fresh raspberries
Sea salt for sprinkling

Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Raspberry Chocolate Bars:

Prepare the Baking Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

Melt Chocolate and Butter

In a saucepan over low heat, combine chocolate chips and butter. Stir until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Mix the Batter

In a mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Add the melted chocolate mixture and stir until well combined. Gently fold in flour and salt until just incorporated.

Add Raspberries

Carefully fold in fresh raspberries into the chocolate batter, being cautious not to break them too much.

Bake the Bars

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out mostly clean.

Prepare the Topping

While the bars are baking, melt the remaining chocolate chips with coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals until smooth.

Top and Cool

Once the bars are done baking, drizzle the melted chocolate on top and scatter fresh raspberries over the surface. Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt and let cool completely in the pan before cutting.

Enjoy your Raspberry Chocolate Bars chilled for a firmer texture!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, you can substitute some of the chocolate chips for white chocolate chips to give it a fun twist. Also, feel free to adjust the raspberry amount based on your preference
just keep the balance for the best flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Raspberry Chocolate Bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them where they can last for about a week. Make sure to layer parchment paper between the bars to prevent them from sticking together. If you're feeling generous, preparing them a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.

If you wish to freeze these bars, slice them into individual servings before wrapping them tightly with plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-friendly container. They should maintain quality for up to three months. Thawing is easy; simply leave them in the refrigerator overnight or let them sit at room temperature for about an hour before serving. This makes them perfect for preparing in batches ahead of any special occasion.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These bars can be enjoyed on their own, or you can elevate them by serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Drizzling a bit of caramel sauce over the top before serving can add an extra layer of richness that complements the raspberry flavor beautifully. Alternatively, serve them warm with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant presentation.

For a fun twist, consider swapping out the raspberries for other berries such as strawberries or blackberries. Each variation brings its unique profile, and you can even mix in nuts or coconut for added texture. If you want to make these bars gluten-free, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative, ensuring your baking powder is also gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy your sweet creations without compromise.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them and drain excess moisture before adding to the batter.

→ How should I store the Raspberry Chocolate Bars?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

→ Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ Can these bars be frozen?

Yes, wrap the cooled bars tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. Thaw before serving.