Raspberry Jam Coconut Slice: A Tea Time Delight

Why You’ll Love This Raspberry Jam Coconut Slice – Tea Time Favourite

Hey there, fellow baking enthusiasts! Are you ready to dive into a recipe that’s as easy as it is delicious? This Raspberry Jam Coconut Slice is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a cozy afternoon tea or a delightful dessert after dinner. Imagine this: a buttery, crumbly base, generously layered with tangy raspberry jam, and topped with a cloud-like coconut topping. It’s a symphony of textures and flavors that will leave you wanting more.

What makes this recipe so special? It’s unbelievably quick and simple to make, requiring no fancy equipment or baking skills. You’ll be surprised how effortlessly this treat comes together. The combination of the sweet coconut, tart raspberry jam, and buttery base creates a balanced flavor profile that’s both sophisticated and comforting. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of textures – the crisp base, the gooey jam, and the delicate coconut topping.

This recipe evokes a feeling of warmth and nostalgia, transporting you to a simpler time of enjoying delicious treats with loved ones. Whether you’re whipping it up for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this Raspberry Jam Coconut Slice is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. The taste? Imagine the perfect balance of sweet and tart, creamy and crunchy. You won’t believe how easily this recipe comes together, making it a fantastic choice for novice bakers and seasoned pros alike!

What You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a weeknight baking project. Let’s take a closer look:

• All-purpose flour (1 cup): The foundation of our delicious base. Use a good quality flour for best results.
• Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Provides the perfect sweetness for the base, complementing the tartness of the raspberry jam.
• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): The key to a tender and crumbly base. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
• Raspberry jam (1/2 cup): The star of the show! Choose your favorite brand or even make your own homemade raspberry jam for an extra special touch.
• Desiccated coconut (1 cup): Creates the delightful fluffy topping. Look for finely shredded desiccated coconut for the best texture.
• Granulated sugar (1/4 cup, extra): Adds extra sweetness and helps to bind the coconut topping together.
• Large egg (1, beaten): Acts as a binder for the coconut topping, helping it to hold its shape and stay moist.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get baking! This recipe is incredibly straightforward. Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll be enjoying your delicious slice in no time.

1. Prepare the base: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a baking pan (approximately 8×8 inches). In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup of sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add the flour, mixing until just combined. Don’t overmix!
2. Press the base: Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Make sure it’s compacted to form an even layer. Tip: Use the bottom of a measuring cup for an even base.
3. Add the jam: Spread the raspberry jam evenly over the pressed base. Ensure you reach all corners for a beautiful, consistent jam layer.
4. Make the coconut topping: In a separate bowl, combine the desiccated coconut, 1/4 cup of sugar, and the beaten egg. Mix until well combined. The mixture should be moist but not runny. Tip: If the mixture seems too dry, add a teaspoon of milk at a time until it reaches the desired consistency.
5. Top and bake: Sprinkle the coconut mixture evenly over the jam layer. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the base is cooked through. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
6. Cool and serve: Let the slice cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. This allows the jam to set and the coconut topping to firm up. Once cool, cut into squares and serve. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

Here are a few helpful hints to ensure your Raspberry Jam Coconut Slice turns out perfectly:

• Don’t overmix the dough: Overmixing the base can result in a tough texture. Mix until just combined.
• Use room temperature butter: Softened butter ensures even mixing and a tender crumb.
• Press the base firmly: A firmly pressed base prevents it from becoming soggy from the jam.
• Watch the baking time: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your slice to prevent over-baking. Start checking for doneness around 20 minutes.
• Let it cool completely: This is crucial for easy cutting and a firm texture. Patience is key!

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with this recipe and make it your own! Here are a few ideas:

• Different jams: Try other fruit jams like strawberry, blackberry, or apricot for a different flavor profile.
• Added nuts: Incorporate chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the base for added crunch.
• Spiced coconut: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the coconut topping for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Chocolate chips: Fold some chocolate chips into the coconut topping for a decadent twist.
• Gluten-free option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

Storing and Reheating

Store leftover Raspberry Jam Coconut Slice in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, let it come to room temperature, then you can gently microwave individual squares for 10-15 seconds, or until warmed through. Avoid over-heating, which can make the jam runny.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this recipe:

• Can I use salted butter? Yes, but reduce the amount of extra sugar in the coconut topping slightly to compensate for the saltiness.
• What if my coconut topping is too dry? Add a teaspoon of milk or cream at a time until you reach a moist, but not runny consistency.
• Can I use a different type of pan? Yes, a 9×9 inch pan will work, but the slice will be slightly thinner. Adjust the baking time accordingly.
• How long does it keep? Stored properly, this slice will keep for up to 3 days at room temperature or 2 months in the freezer.
• Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! Prepare the slice completely and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. The flavors will even meld nicely overnight.

The Final Word

This Raspberry Jam Coconut Slice is a true crowd-pleaser, effortlessly combining classic flavors and textures into one irresistible treat. It’s the perfect recipe for satisfying your sweet tooth without spending hours in the kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to bake up a batch of this deliciousness. We can’t wait to hear about your baking experience! Don’t forget to leave a comment below and share your thoughts, rate the recipe, and let us know how it turned out. Happy baking!

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