Vegan Berry Crumble Bars

In need of a healthy dessert recipe that still tastes delicious? Vegan Berry Crumble Bars are your answer. Made with fresh or frozen mixed berries and an oatmeal crumble topping, these triple-layered treats will satisfy all your healthy baking needs. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a sweet snack at home, they are gluten-free and refined sugar-free, making them a guilt-free indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet berries and a crunchy topping creates a delightful contrast that is hard to resist.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, anyone can whip up these bars in no time.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to mix different berries or grains based on your preference or what you have on hand.
• Healthy Option: Packed with nutrients from the fruits and whole grains, these bars are a great alternative to traditional desserts.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time for quick snacks throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Vegan Berry Crumble Bars, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Baking dish (8×8)
• Potato masher or fork
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: These allow you to combine ingredients easily and keep your workspace organized.
• Baking dish (8×8): The perfect size for this recipe ensures even cooking and easy portioning.
• Potato masher or fork: Essential for properly mashing the berries without leaving large chunks behind.

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Ingredients

For the Base Layer

• 1 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1/4 cup oat flour
• 1/3 cup melted refined coconut oil
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt

For the Berry Layer

• 1 cup berries, fresh or frozen
• 1 1/2 tbsp pure maple syrup
• 1 tbsp water
• 1/2 tsp cornstarch

For the Crumble Topping

• 1/2 cup oat flour
• 1/4 cup oats
• 2 tbsp almond flour
• 1/4 cup melted refined coconut oil
• 1 tbsp pure maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

How to Make Vegan Berry Crumble Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 2: Prepare the Base Layer

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine the almond flour, oat flour, and salt.
2. Add in the maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Mix well until combined.
3. Spread the mixture evenly in a greased or lined 8×8 baking dish. Flatten it out to form an even base layer.

Step 3: Make the Berry Layer

In a pot:
1. Add the berries, maple syrup, and water.
2. Heat on low to medium heat until berries soften.
3. Mash with a potato masher or fork until desired consistency is reached.
4. Stir in cornstarch and let simmer for about 5-10 minutes until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and transfer to a bowl; place in the fridge to thicken further.

Step 4: Prepare the Crumble Topping

In another mixing bowl:
1. Combine oats, oat flour, almond flour, and salt.
2. Add melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract; mix until crumbly.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

1. Remove berry mixture from fridge; pour it over the base layer in the baking dish.
2. Spread evenly across the berry layer.
3. Crumble topping over the berries by squeezing chunks between your fingers before placing them on top.
4. Bake for 25 minutes until golden brown.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let cool completely before cutting into squares for serving. Enjoy your delicious Vegan Berry Crumble Bars!

How to Serve Vegan Berry Crumble Bars

Vegan Berry Crumble Bars are versatile treats that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re serving them at a party, as an afternoon snack, or for dessert, these bars are sure to impress.

Pair with Fresh Fruit

• Fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries complement the flavors of the crumble bars and add a refreshing touch.

Add a Drizzle of Nut Butter

• A drizzle of almond or peanut butter enhances the nutty flavor of the bars and adds creaminess for a satisfying treat.

Serve with Dairy-Free Ice Cream

• Pairing these bars with dairy-free ice cream creates a delicious contrast between warm and cold, making it a perfect dessert option.

Dust with Powdered Sugar

• A light dusting of powdered sugar on top gives an elegant finish and adds just a hint of sweetness without overpowering the dish.

Accompany with Herbal Tea

• Serving these bars with a cup of herbal tea can create a relaxing experience ideal for afternoon gatherings or cozy evenings.

Top with Coconut Whipped Cream

• For an extra indulgent touch, serve your Vegan Berry Crumble Bars with coconut whipped cream for added richness and flavor.

How to Perfect Vegan Berry Crumble Bars

To make truly delicious Vegan Berry Crumble Bars, it’s important to pay attention to detail during preparation. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Use fresh berries: Fresh berries provide better flavor and texture compared to frozen ones. Choose ripe berries for optimal sweetness.

• Check the consistency: Ensure your berry filling has thickened properly before layering it in the bars. This prevents sogginess in the final product.

• Grease your baking dish: Applying oil or using parchment paper prevents sticking and makes it easier to cut the bars after baking.

• Let cool completely: Allowing the bars to cool fully before cutting helps maintain their shape and makes them easier to slice.

• Adjust sweetness: Taste your berry mixture and adjust sweetness as needed. You can add more maple syrup if desired for extra sweetness.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Berry Crumble Bars

When serving Vegan Berry Crumble Bars, consider pairing them with light side dishes that balance their sweetness. Here are some delicious options:

1. Chia Seed Pudding: A creamy chia seed pudding made with almond milk can provide a nutritious contrast to the sweeter bars.

2. Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit salad adds freshness and variety while enhancing your dessert presentation.

3. Granola Parfait: Layering granola with dairy-free yogurt creates a delightful parfait that complements the crumble bars nicely.

4. Nut Mix: A simple nut mix offers crunch and protein, making it an excellent snack alongside your dessert.

5. Green Salad: A light green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette contrasts well with the rich flavors of the crumble bars.

6. Smoothie Bowl: A vibrant smoothie bowl filled with fruits and topped with nuts is refreshing and pairs well as a light side dish.

7. Roasted Vegetables: For an unexpected twist, serve roasted seasonal vegetables seasoned lightly to balance out the sweetness of your dessert.

8. Oatmeal Cookies: Homemade oatmeal cookies provide another sweet treat option without overshadowing the main attraction—your vegan berry crumble bars!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Vegan Berry Crumble Bars can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect your results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the cooling step: Allowing the bars to cool helps them set properly, making them easier to cut and enjoy. If you skip this step, they may fall apart.

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Accurate measurements are crucial for the right texture. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for best results.

• Using overly ripe or spoiled berries: Freshness matters! Overripe berries can lead to a mushy filling. Choose firm, ripe berries for the best flavor and texture.

• Neglecting to grease the baking dish: A greased or lined baking dish prevents sticking. If you forget this step, it might ruin your beautiful bars.

• Overbaking the crumble topping: A golden-brown top is ideal. Keep an eye on your bars in the oven; overbaking can make them dry and less enjoyable.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Vegan Berry Crumble Bars in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Vegan Berry Crumble Bars

• Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating Vegan Berry Crumble Bars

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place bars on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one bar at a time in 15-20 second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about making these delicious bars, here are some common queries answered:

What berries work best for Vegan Berry Crumble Bars?

You can use any combination of berries such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries. Fresh or frozen options both work well!

Can I customize my Vegan Berry Crumble Bars?

Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, seeds, or different spices like cinnamon for additional flavor and texture.

How do I know when my Vegan Berry Crumble Bars are done baking?

Look for a golden-brown crumble topping and ensure the berry layer is bubbly around the edges. This indicates they’re ready!

Are Vegan Berry Crumble Bars gluten-free?

Yes! By using almond flour and oat flour, these bars are gluten-free and perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

These Vegan Berry Crumble Bars are not only healthy but also incredibly tasty. With their delightful layers of berry goodness topped with a crunchy crumble, they offer versatility for any dessert occasion. Feel free to customize them with your favorite fruits or nuts. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy guilt-free indulgence!