These Mango Bars with Raspberry Swirl are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. With a buttery shortbread crust, luscious mango curd, and a vibrant raspberry swirl, these bars are sure to impress. They balance sweetness and tartness beautifully, making them an excellent choice for dessert tables, picnics, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The sweet mango curd paired with tart raspberry jam creates a taste sensation.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps make this dessert approachable for bakers of all levels.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for parties, potlucks, or a cozy night in.
- Beautiful Presentation: The colorful swirl adds visual appeal that will impress your guests.
- Versatile Treat: These bars can be served chilled or at room temperature.
Tools and Preparation
To create these Mango Bars with Raspberry Swirl, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Baking pan (9×9-inch)
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without mess.
- Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth texture in both the mango curd and the batter.
- Baking pan: A sturdy pan ensures even baking and easy transport of the bars.
Ingredients
These Raspberry Mango Bars have everything going for them; a buttery shortbread crust, smooth mango curd that actually sets, and a swirl of tart raspberry jam.
For the Shortbread Crust
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour (210 grams)
- 7 tablespoons powdered sugar (56 grams)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 10 tablespoons butter (cold, cut into pieces; 140 grams)
- 1 egg yolk
- 2 teaspoons heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Mango Curd
- 2½ teaspoons unflavored Vegan gelatin powder (7 grams)
- ¼ cup cold water
- 12 tablespoons butter (softened)
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- 10 egg yolks
- 1 cup mango puree (store bought or homemade)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
For the Raspberry Swirl
- ½ cup raspberry jam
How to Make Mango Bars with Raspberry Swirl
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your baking pan by lining it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Step 2: Make the Shortbread Crust
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and salt.
- Add the cold butter pieces and mix until crumbly.
- Stir in the egg yolk, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until just combined.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Step 3: Prepare the Mango Curd
- In a small bowl, dissolve the vegan gelatin powder in cold water; set aside.
- In another bowl, whisk together softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy.
- Add egg yolks one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in mango puree, salt, lemon juice, and dissolved gelatin mixture until thoroughly combined.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
- Pour the mango curd over the baked shortbread crust evenly.
- Drop spoonfuls of raspberry jam on top of the mango curd; use a knife to swirl it gently.
- Bake for an additional 15–20 minutes or until set.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using parchment paper. Cut into squares and enjoy!
How to Serve Mango Bars with Raspberry Swirl
Mango Bars with Raspberry Swirl are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for a casual snack, a party dessert, or a sweet addition to your brunch table, these bars impress everyone with their vibrant flavors.
Pair with Fresh Fruits
- Sliced Kiwi – The tartness of kiwi complements the sweetness of the mango bars beautifully.
- Mixed Berries – A medley of strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries adds a refreshing touch.
Serve with Whipped Cream
- Vanilla Whipped Cream – A dollop of lightly sweetened vanilla whipped cream enhances the dessert’s creaminess.
- Coconut Whipped Topping – A dairy-free option that pairs well with the tropical flavors of mango.
Accompany with Tea or Coffee
- Iced Green Tea – The lightness of green tea balances the richness of the bars.
- Espresso – A shot of espresso provides a nice contrast to the sweet, fruity flavors.
How to Perfect Mango Bars with Raspberry Swirl
To ensure your Mango Bars with Raspberry Swirl turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Chill Your Crust – Before baking, chill the shortbread crust for 30 minutes. This helps it hold its shape during baking.
- Use Ripe Mangoes – Select ripe mangoes for your puree. They should be slightly soft and fragrant for the best flavor.
- Watch Baking Time – Keep an eye on your bars as they bake to prevent overcooking. They should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cool Completely – Allow your mango bars to cool completely before cutting them for clean slices.
Best Side Dishes for Mango Bars with Raspberry Swirl
Pairing side dishes with your Mango Bars can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options that complement their flavors.
- Tropical Fruit Salad – A mix of pineapple, papaya, and melon brings freshness and contrasts nicely with the bars.
- Coconut Rice Pudding – Creamy rice pudding infused with coconut milk adds richness that balances the tangy raspberry swirl.
- Lemon Sorbet – This light and zesty sorbet cleanses the palate after enjoying rich mango bars.
- Pineapple Ginger Smoothie – A refreshing smoothie made from pineapple and ginger enhances tropical vibes at any gathering.
- Almond Biscotti – Crunchy biscotti provide a nice texture contrast when dipped into coffee or enjoyed alongside the bars.
- Fruit-Infused Iced Water – Enhance hydration by infusing water with fresh fruits like lemon and mint, making it a refreshing accompaniment.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Mango Bars with Raspberry Swirl, it’s easy to encounter some common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Using warm butter: Warm butter can cause the crust to become greasy. Make sure your butter is cold and cut into pieces for the perfect shortbread texture.
- Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough bars. Mix just until combined for a tender, buttery crust.
- Skipping the chilling step: Not chilling the crust can result in a dense texture. Chill your crust in the fridge before baking for best results.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using incorrect measurements can affect taste and texture. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
- Ignoring the setting time: Rushing the cooling process can result in soft bars. Allow your mango curd to set properly before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- These Mango Bars with Raspberry Swirl will last up to 5 days.
Freezing Mango Bars with Raspberry Swirl
- Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Mango Bars with Raspberry Swirl
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat bars on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 10-15 seconds until slightly warm. Be careful not to overheat!
- Stovetop: Place bars in a non-stick pan over low heat for a few minutes, flipping gently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Mango Bars with Raspberry Swirl:
What is the key ingredient in Mango Bars with Raspberry Swirl?
The key ingredient is mango puree, which gives these bars their vibrant flavor and creamy texture.
Can I use frozen mango for the mango curd?
Yes, frozen mango works well! Just thaw it first and blend until smooth.
How do I customize my Mango Bars with Raspberry Swirl?
You can add coconut flakes or lime zest for extra flavor. Experimenting with different fruit swirls like blueberry or peach is also fun!
Why did my mango curd not set properly?
If your curd didn’t set, it might need more time in the fridge or you may have not used enough gelling agent.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for delicious gluten-free Mango Bars with Raspberry Swirl.
Final Thoughts
Mango Bars with Raspberry Swirl are a delightful treat that combines rich flavors and textures. Their versatility allows you to customize them based on your preferences, making them perfect for any occasion. Try adding different fruit swirls or toppings for a unique twist!
Mango Bars with Raspberry Swirl
Indulge in the tropical delight of Mango Bars with Raspberry Swirl, a refreshing dessert that combines the sweet richness of mango curd with the tart vibrancy of raspberry jam. Nestled on a buttery shortbread crust, these bars are not only visually stunning but also incredibly easy to make, making them perfect for any gathering or simply as a satisfying treat at home. Their balanced flavors and elegant presentation are sure to impress family and friends alike. Whether served chilled or at room temperature, these fruity dessert bars will become a go-to recipe for warm weather celebrations.
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour (210 grams)
- 7 tablespoons powdered sugar (56 grams)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 10 tablespoons butter (cold, cut into pieces; 140 grams)
- 1 egg yolk
- 2 teaspoons heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2½ teaspoons unflavored vegan gelatin powder (7 grams)
- ¼ cup cold water
- 12 tablespoons butter (softened)
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- 10 egg yolks
- 1 cup mango puree (store bought or homemade)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ½ cup raspberry jam
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- For the crust, mix flour, powdered sugar, and salt in a bowl. Add cold butter and combine until crumbly. Stir in egg yolk, cream, and vanilla until just mixed. Press into the prepared pan and bake for 20 minutes until golden.
- For the mango curd, dissolve vegan gelatin in cold water. Beat softened butter and sugar until fluffy; add egg yolks gradually. Mix in mango puree, salt, lemon juice, and dissolved gelatin.
- Pour mango curd over baked crust; dollop raspberry jam on top and swirl gently. Bake for an additional 15–20 minutes until set.
- Let cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tropical
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (45g)
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg