If you’re searching for a treat that feels like a cozy afternoon tucked away in a countryside cottage, Scottish Coconut Raspberry Oatie Squares are pure magic. These irresistible bars begin with a rich, buttery oat base that’s both chewy and crisp, then get a blanket of luscious raspberry jam before a golden coconut crumble finishes things off. In every bite you’ll taste nostalgia, homey comfort, and just the right balance of sweetness and texture. Whether you’re making them for a teatime celebration or sneaking a late-night snack, Scottish Coconut Raspberry Oatie Squares are the kind of recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

Scottish Coconut Raspberry Oatie Squares Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the joys of Scottish Coconut Raspberry Oatie Squares is how the most basic pantry staples come together to create something spectacular. Each element brings real character—from chewy, wholesome oats to the tart sparkle of raspberry jam, and of course a generous dose of coconut for extra chew and flavor. Here’s what you’ll need, with a few tips to make your squares even better:

Rolled oats: Traditional rolled oats give the bars their hearty Scottish personality and trademark chew—don’t use instant!
All-purpose flour: Just enough to bind the oatie layers and give a soft but stable crumb.
Desiccated coconut: Dried coconut adds a gentle chewiness and a delicate coconut flavor that pairs beautifully with raspberry.
Light brown sugar, packed: This brings a subtle caramel warmth and helps keep the oat base moist and tender.
Baking powder: Just a hint to give everything a light lift and prevent the base from being too dense.
Salt: A pinch is all you need to balance the sweetness and highlight the buttery richness.
Unsalted butter, melted: Melted butter holds everything together and makes those crumbly edges extra delicious.
Vanilla extract: For lovely background flavor that rounds out both the coconut and the raspberry jam.
Raspberry jam (or jam of your choice): The soul of this bake! Raspberry gives a tart, floral punch that cuts the sweetness just right—feel free to swap for blackberry, cherry, or strawberry if you like.

How to Make Scottish Coconut Raspberry Oatie Squares

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides. This makes it incredibly easy to lift out the Scottish Coconut Raspberry Oatie Squares once they’re baked, so you don’t risk any breakage—or get your hands too sticky.

Step 2: Mix the Oat & Coconut Base

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, desiccated coconut, packed light brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Give everything a good stir so the baking powder and salt distribute evenly. Melt your butter and stir it in along with the vanilla extract, mixing until the dough is evenly moistened and just coming together.

Step 3: Press in the Base Layer

Take roughly half of your oatie mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Pat it down flat with your hands or the back of a spoon, aiming for an even layer. The mixture should hold together to create a sturdy, buttery base for the jam—press it enough so it doesn’t crumble apart after baking, but not so much it becomes dense.

Step 4: Add the Raspberry Jam Filling

Spoon your raspberry jam right on top of the oat base. Use the back of a small spoon or an offset spatula to spread it gently and evenly from edge to edge. Be careful not to drag up the oat layer beneath—the idea is a gleaming middle ribbon of jam that stays put during baking.

Step 5: Top and Bake

Sprinkle the remaining oat and coconut mixture evenly over the jam, then press down lightly so it sticks but still keeps that lovely crumbly texture. Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes—when the top is golden brown and your kitchen smells of sweet butter and coconut, you’ll know they’re ready.

Step 6: Cool and Slice

Let the squares cool completely in the pan before lifting them out by the parchment paper overhang. If you cut them while warm, they may fall apart (even though the temptation is real!). Once cool, slice into sixteen even squares and get ready for compliments.

How to Serve Scottish Coconut Raspberry Oatie Squares

Garnishes

Dusting the Scottish Coconut Raspberry Oatie Squares with a little powdered sugar adds an elegant, cafe-style finish, while a few fresh raspberries scattered on the plate bring a pop of color and a nod to the jam center. If you’re feeling a little extra, a drizzle of melted white chocolate or a dollop of softly whipped cream on the side makes these squares party-worthy.

Side Dishes

These sweet treats pair gorgeously with a creamy cup of tea, malty black coffee, or a frothy latte. For special occasions, serve them alongside a bowl of fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a fun dessert plate. The classic Scottish pairing is, of course, a nice strong brew and a good friend for company.

Creative Ways to Present

For picnics or gift boxes, wrap each square in wax paper and tie with a bit of ribbon for instant charm. Try layering Scottish Coconut Raspberry Oatie Squares on a tiered cake stand to create a striking afternoon tea display. At the holidays, cut them into smaller bars and tuck them into festive cookie tins alongside shortbread for a Scottish-inspired treat box.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Scottish Coconut Raspberry Oatie Squares keep brilliantly at room temperature for up to three days if stored in an airtight container. The oat layers stay chewy without getting soggy, and the jam keeps its vibrant, gooey middle. If your kitchen is especially warm, storing in the fridge helps them last a bit longer and makes the squares super easy to slice.

Freezing

Once completely cooled, you can freeze the squares in a single layer, separated by parchment to prevent sticking. Pop them in a freezer bag or a container and they’ll stay tasty for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature or in the fridge overnight when you want a taste of that Scottish baking comfort.

Reheating

While Scottish Coconut Raspberry Oatie Squares are delicious straight from the tin, you can give them a quick 10-second zap in the microwave to bring the jam back to a gooey, just-baked texture. For larger batches, a short spell in the oven at 300°F will revive them nicely, especially if you like a warm treat with your tea.

FAQs

Can I use other types of jam for these squares?

Absolutely! While raspberry jam gives a classic tang and color, feel free to use strawberry, blackberry, cherry, or even a homemade berry mixture. The basic oat and coconut base pairs with almost any fruit preserve you love.

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Rolled oats are best for the hearty texture that makes Scottish Coconut Raspberry Oatie Squares so special. Quick oats will work in a pinch, but the squares may be softer and less chewy.

What’s the best way to cut the squares without them falling apart?

For neat slices, wait until the bars are completely cooled. Use a large, sharp knife and clean it between cuts for tidy edges. Chilling the squares in the fridge for 30 minutes before slicing also helps them hold their shape beautifully.

Can I make these squares dairy-free or vegan?

Yes! Swap the butter for a high-quality vegan butter (or solid coconut oil for extra coconut flavor), and double-check your jam and sugar are vegan-friendly. The method stays the same, and the result is just as satisfying.

Are Scottish Coconut Raspberry Oatie Squares suitable for freezing?

They’re fantastic for freezing. Layer the bars with parchment and freeze in an airtight container. When ready to eat, simply thaw at room temperature, and enjoy them as if they were freshly baked!

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a recipe that promises comfort, flavor, and cozy memories all in one, give Scottish Coconut Raspberry Oatie Squares a try. They’re wonderfully simple, fun to bake, and incredibly rewarding to share—or keep all to yourself. I can’t wait for you to enjoy every chewy, jammy bite!

Scottish Coconut Raspberry Oatie Squares Recipe