Berry crumble bars are a delightful treat that perfectly combines the tangy juiciness of fresh berries with the comforting crunch of a buttery crumble topping. They are the ideal dessert for any occasion, from casual picnics to elegant dinners , and can even serve as a sweet breakfast option . Here’s everything you need to know to create these delicious bars at home.
RECIPE GUIDE
Why you’ll adore this recipe
- Versatility
- Balance of Sweetness and Tartness
- Simplicity
- Customizable Toppings
- Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly
Necessary Ingredients
The beauty of berry crumble bars lies in their simplicity. Paring simple ingredients with ripe, seasonal berries creates a remarkable flavor profile that is both sweet and slightly tart. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the crust and crumble:
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup of rolled oats
- 1/3 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, melted
For the berry filling:
- 2 cups of mixed berries (such as blueberries, raspberries, and sliced strawberries)
- 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon of cor
Guidelines for Perfecting Crumble Bars
Creating the perfect berry crumble bars involves more than just following a recipe; it’s about understanding the nuances that make them exceptional. Here are some handy tips to ensure your crumble bars turn out delectable every time:
Choose the Right Berries
- Seasonality Matters: Use fresh, seasonal berries when possible, as these will provide the best flavor and texture. However, frozen berries are a great alternative when fresh ones are out of season.
- Balance the Flavors: Combining different berries, like blueberries and raspberries, adds complexity to the flavor. Experiment with your favorites to achieve your desired taste balance.
Prepare the Crumble Correctly
- Texture is Key: Ensuring your crumble mixture is well-textured will impact the final product. Mix the ingredients until they reach a crumbly consistency, but avoid over-mixing to retain that delightful, crumbly texture.
- Even Distribution: Make sure to evenly distribute the crumble mixture over the berry layer to create an ideal ratio of fruit to crumble in every bite.
Baking to Perfection
- Mind the Oven: Berry crumble bars should be baked until the top is golden brown and the fruit is bubbly. This usually takes about 30-35 minutes at 350°F
Recipe tips
- Mind the Crumble: Ensure your crumble topping has the right consistency. It should hold together when you squeeze it but still be crumbly. If the crumble seems too dry, add a little extra melted butter. If it’s too wet, incorporate a bit more flour or oats.
- Choose the Right Berries: While this recipe is flexible with berry choices, try to use a mix of sweet and tart berries for a balanced flavor. If you’re using frozen berries, there’s no need to thaw them first. Just be aware that they might add extra moisture, so consider adding a tablespoon of cornstarch to the berry mixture to help thicken it.
- Prevent a Soggy Base: To avoid a soggy bar bottom, make sure to lightly press down the base layer before adding the berries. You might even consider partially baking the base for about 10 minutes before adding the filling.
- Experiment with Flavors: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest or a pinch of nutmeg to your berry mixture for an extra burst of flavor. You can also introduce chopped nuts to
FAQs About Berry Crumble Bars
Is it possible to use various types of berries?
When it comes to fresh fruit, raspberries and blackberries are ideal choices since they release comparable amounts of juice. However, you can opt for all raspberries or all blackberries if you prefer. As for the preserves, feel free to select any flavor that suits your palate!
Is it okay to substitute old-fashioned oats for quick oats?
Regrettably, no. Old-fashioned oats absorb liquid differently from quick oats.
Is it possible to adapt this recipe for a vegan or dairy-free diet?
Certainly! Simply replace the butter with a plant-based alternative, and you’re all set.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
While I haven’t personally tested it, this recipe should work well with a one-for-one gluten-free baking flour. Additionally, ensure you use certified gluten-free oats.
Is it possible to substitute strawberry jam for the preserves?
You can, though preserves are typically favored for their texture and enhanced sweetness.
What’s the best way to store crumble bars?
After baking and cooling, slice the bars and store them in a container in the refrigerator. You can keep them fresh for up to five days.
Is it possible to adjust the recipe for a 9×13-inch dish?
That should work! I recommend extending the bake time by 5-10 minutes.
Serving options
. Berry crumble bars are versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Warm and A La Mode: Serve the bars slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy texture of the ice cream pairs perfectly with the crunchy crumble and juicy berries.
- With Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream can add a light and airy contrast to the dense and flavorful bars. Consider adding a hint of cinnamon or vanilla extract to the whipped cream for extra flavor depth.
- As a Breakfast Treat: These bars can double as a delightful breakfast option. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a satisfying morning meal.
- Garnished with Fresh Berries: Enhance your presentation by garnishing the plate with a few fresh berries. This not only adds to the visual appeal but also introduces a fresh, juicy element to each bite.
- With Yogurt: For a healthier twist, try serving the bars with a side of plain or honey yogurt. The tangy yogurt complements the sweetness of the bars beautifully.
Berry Crumble Bars
Ingredients
For the crust and crumble:
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup of rolled oats
- 1/3 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter melted
For the berry filling:
- 2 cups of mixed berries such as blueberries, raspberries, and sliced strawberries
- 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon of cor
Instructions
Choose the Right Berries
- Seasonality Matters: Use fresh, seasonal berries when possible, as these will provide the best flavor and texture. However, frozen berries are a great alternative when fresh ones are out of season.
- Balance the Flavors: Combining different berries, like blueberries and raspberries, adds complexity to the flavor. Experiment with your favorites to achieve your desired taste balance.
Prepare the Crumble Correctly
- Texture is Key: Ensuring your crumble mixture is well-textured will impact the final product. Mix the ingredients until they reach a crumbly consistency, but avoid over-mixing to retain that delightful, crumbly texture.
- Even Distribution: Make sure to evenly distribute the crumble mixture over the berry layer to create an ideal ratio of fruit to crumble in every bite.
Baking to Perfection
- Mind the Oven: Berry crumble bars should be baked until the top is golden brown and the fruit is bubbly. This usually takes about 30-35 minutes at 350°F
Notes
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 120mg
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 18g
- Protein: 3g