Why prepare raspberry slices
These Raspberry Slices offer a lovely balance of tart fruit and sweet icing. The recipe uses simple pantry staples that most home bakers already have in the kitchen. You can easily adjust the thickness of the jam layer to suit your personal taste. It is a reliable traybake that looks beautiful when sliced into neat portions for serving.
How to get raspberry slices ready
Prepare the base: Mix the plain flour and sugar in a bowl then rub in the cold butter until it looks like fine crumbs. Press this mixture firmly into a lined baking tin and bake for ten minutes at 180 degrees. This creates a solid foundation for the fruit layer.
Add the filling: Spread the raspberry jam evenly over the warm biscuit base using a palette knife. Make sure the jam reaches the edges of the tin so every slice has fruit. This layer provides the signature flavour and sweetness.
Add the sponge: Cream the softened butter and caster sugar together then beat in the eggs and self raising flour. Spread this cake mixture over the jam and bake for another twenty five minutes until the top is golden and firm.
Glaze and cut: Let the cake cool completely before mixing icing sugar with water to make a thick glaze. Pour the icing over the top and wait for it to set before cutting into neat Raspberry Slices. Use a sharp knife for the best results.
Extra tips for raspberry slices
Ensure the butter for the sponge layer is at room temperature to achieve a smooth and light batter. If the jam is too thick to spread, stir it vigorously in a small bowl to loosen it before adding it to the base. Always wait for the bake to be completely cold before adding the icing or it will run off the sides. You can add a few drops of pink food colouring to the glaze for a traditional bakery appearance. Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water to get the neatest possible Raspberry Slices when portioning. If you prefer a crunchier base, you can bake the pastry layer for a few extra minutes before adding the jam.
Storing the bake in an airtight container will keep the sponge soft for several days. If the icing seems too thin, simply add a little more icing sugar until it reaches a spreadable consistency. Raspberry Slices are best enjoyed with a cup of tea or as a sweet addition to a lunchbox.
You might also enjoy
classic rice porridge,
oysters au gratin or
homemade turkey nuggets.
