A Sweet-Tart Treat with Old-Fashioned Charm
If you’re craving something chewy, sweet, and just a little bit tangy, these Tangy Raisin Crumble Bars are the perfect nostalgic dessert. With a buttery oat crumble on top and bottom, and a zippy raisin filling in the middle, they strike that magical balance of sweet, spiced, and satisfying.
This is the kind of recipe that feels like it came out of grandma’s recipe box. I love how budget-friendly and pantry-friendly it is—you likely have everything you need already! These bars are perfect for afternoon coffee, lunchbox treats, or a cozy after-dinner dessert.
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe
Q: What makes the raisin filling “tangy”?
The filling gets its zip from a little lemon juice or apple cider vinegar, which brightens up the naturally sweet raisins and makes the whole bar more balanced.
Q: Can I use golden raisins or a mix?
Absolutely! Golden, red, black, or even a mix of dried fruits like currants or chopped dates all work beautifully.
Q: Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes! Just use certified gluten-free oats and swap in your favorite 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Q: How long do they last?
They’ll keep for up to 5 days in an airtight container at room temp, or up to 3 months frozen.
Q: Are these more cakey or crumbly?
These bars are chewy and crumbly, with a tender oat base and a sticky, jammy center.
What You Need to Make Tangy Raisin Crumble Bars
For the Raisin Filling:
- 1½ cups raisins
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (or apple cider vinegar)
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
For the Crumble Base & Topping:
- 1½ cups old-fashioned oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup (1½ sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Tangy Raisin Crumble Bars
Step 1: Make the Raisin Filling
- In a small saucepan, combine raisins, water, lemon juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for 5–7 minutes until raisins are plump.
- Stir in cornstarch and cook another 1–2 minutes until thickened. Let cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Crumble Mixture
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix oats, flour, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt.
- Stir in melted butter and vanilla until crumbly.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
- Press two-thirds of the oat mixture into a greased or parchment-lined 8×8″ baking pan.
- Spread the raisin filling evenly on top.
- Crumble the remaining oat mixture over the filling.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly around the edges.
Step 4: Cool and Slice
- Let bars cool completely in the pan.
- Slice into squares and serve, or store for later!
Tips for the Best Raisin Crumble Bars
✔ Chop raisins for a smoother filling texture if you prefer.
✔ Let them cool fully before slicing—this helps them set and hold together better.
✔ Add a pinch of cloves or nutmeg to the filling for a spicier twist.
✔ Don’t overbake—watch for golden edges and a just-set middle.
✔ Make them breakfast-approved by reducing the sugar slightly.
Reader Reviews
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Emma L. – “Reminded me of a bakery treat I used to get as a kid. That tangy filling is chef’s kiss!”
🌟🌟🌟🌟 James K. – “I used half raisins, half dates and it was perfect. Great texture and not too sweet.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Samantha W. – “These were a hit at my book club! Love how old-school and cozy they feel.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Lucas R. – “Easy to make and they freeze really well. Great for work snacks!”
🌟🌟🌟🌟 Jessica T. – “I added a little orange zest and wow! So delicious and comforting.”
Printable Recipe
Tangy Raisin Crumble Bars
These Tangy Raisin Crumble Bars feature a chewy oat crust and a gooey, sweet-tart raisin filling for the perfect vintage-inspired treat.
Ingredients
- For the Raisin Filling:
- 1½ cups raisins
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (or apple cider vinegar)
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- For the Crumble Base & Topping:
- 1½ cups old-fashioned oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup (1½ sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Raisin Filling
- In a small saucepan, combine raisins, water, lemon juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for 5–7 minutes until raisins are plump.
- Stir in cornstarch and cook another 1–2 minutes until thickened. Let cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Crumble Mixture
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix oats, flour, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt.
- Stir in melted butter and vanilla until crumbly.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
- Press two-thirds of the oat mixture into a greased or parchment-lined 8x8" baking pan.
- Spread the raisin filling evenly on top.
- Crumble the remaining oat mixture over the filling.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly around the edges.
Step 4: Cool and Slice
- Let bars cool completely in the pan.
- Slice into squares and serve, or store for later!
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If You Enjoyed This Recipe, Please Share!
If these Tangy Raisin Crumble Bars brought a little vintage charm into your kitchen, share the love! Post your photos on social media, pin it for later, or send it to someone who needs a cozy treat in their life. Be sure to tag #funcraftykitchen so I can see your sweet creations!
