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 any occasion, they are gluten-free and refined sugar-free, making them a guilt-free indulgence that everyone can enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy Dessert: These bars are made with wholesome ingredients, allowing you to satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt.
- Versatile Flavor: Use a mix of your favorite berries or seasonal fruits to customize the taste according to your preference.
- Easy Preparation: With simple steps and minimal equipment needed, these bars are quick to whip up for any gathering.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and store them for a week of delicious snacks or desserts.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you serve them at parties or family gatherings, these bars are sure to impress both kids and adults alike.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather your tools to make the preparation smooth and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- 8×8 baking dish
- Potato masher or fork
- Spoon for mixing
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly without mess.
- Baking dish: A good quality 8×8 dish ensures even baking and easy portioning.
- Potato masher or fork: These tools help in breaking down the berries quickly and efficiently.
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 to prepare for baking these scrumptious bars.
Step 2: Prepare the Base Layer
In a mixing bowl combine:
1. Almond flour, oat flour, and salt.
2. Add maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
3. Spread this mixture evenly in a greased or lined 8×8 baking dish. Set aside.
Step 3: Create the Berry Layer
In a pot, add:
– Berries,
– Maple syrup,
– Water.
Heat on low to medium heat until berries soften.
1. Mash with a potato masher or fork until large chunks are gone.
2. Stir in cornstarch and let simmer for about 5-10 minutes until thickened.
3. Remove from heat and transfer to a bowl; place in the fridge to thicken further.
Step 4: Make the Crumble Topping
Combine in another bowl:
– Oats,
– Oat flour,
– Almond flour,
– Salt.
Add:
– Melted coconut oil,
– Maple syrup,
– Vanilla extract.
Mix well and set aside.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
- Take the berry mixture from the fridge and pour it over the base layer in the baking dish. Spread evenly.
- Top with crumble mixture by squeezing chunks between fingers before placing on top of berries.
- Bake for 25 minutes until golden brown.
Step 6: Cool Down and Serve
Let cool completely before cutting into squares. Enjoy these Vegan Berry Crumble Bars as a delightful dessert or snack!
How to Serve Vegan Berry Crumble Bars
Vegan Berry Crumble Bars are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer them warm or cold, these bars offer a delightful treat for any occasion.
Enjoy Them Warm
- Pair with a dollop of coconut whipped cream for a creamy contrast.
- Serve alongside a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Add Fresh Fruit
- Top with sliced strawberries or blueberries to enhance the berry flavor.
- Garnish with mint leaves for a refreshing touch.
Drizzle with Sauce
- A drizzle of pure maple syrup adds extra sweetness.
- Use a berry compote for a burst of flavor and color.
Pack for On-the-Go
- Wrap individual bars in parchment paper for a convenient snack.
- Great for lunchboxes or as an after-school treat.
How to Perfect Vegan Berry Crumble Bars
To achieve the best texture and flavor in your Vegan Berry Crumble Bars, follow these helpful tips.
- Use high-quality berries: Fresh or frozen mixed berries can make a big difference in taste. Choose ripe berries for the best flavor.
- Ensure proper baking time: Keep an eye on the bars while baking. They should be golden brown on top and firm to the touch when done.
- Cool completely before slicing: Allowing the bars to cool fully helps them set, making slicing easier without crumbling.
- Experiment with different fruits: Feel free to swap out mixed berries for other fruits like peaches or cherries for variety.
- Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
Best Side Dishes for Vegan Berry Crumble Bars
Vegan Berry Crumble Bars pair well with several side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some great options to consider:
- Coconut Yogurt: Creamy and tangy, it enhances the berry flavors beautifully.
- Chia Seed Pudding: A nutritious option that adds texture and is rich in omega-3s.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and balances sweetness.
- Granola: Crunchy granola adds texture and can be sprinkled on top or served alongside.
- Nut Butter Dip: Almond or cashew butter offers a rich, nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with sweet bars.
- Herbed Quinoa Salad: A light salad can serve as a refreshing contrast to the rich, sweet bars.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking Vegan Berry Crumble Bars can be simple but there are common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to avoid to ensure success.
- Overmixing the base: This can lead to a dense texture. Mix just until combined for a lighter result.
- Not measuring ingredients properly: Precise measurements are key in baking. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for accuracy.
- Skipping the cooling time: Cutting the bars too soon can cause them to fall apart. Let them cool completely before slicing.
- Ignoring oven temperature: Every oven is different. Use an oven thermometer to ensure your temperature is accurate for even baking.
- Using stale berries: Fresh or frozen berries should be ripe and flavorful. Check their quality before using for the best taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Vegan Berry Crumble Bars in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Vegan Berry Crumble Bars
- Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Vegan Berry Crumble Bars
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place bars on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat each bar on high for about 15-20 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, covered, for about 5 minutes or until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Vegan Berry Crumble Bars.
What fruits can I use in Vegan Berry Crumble Bars?
You can use any combination of berries like strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries. Feel free to mix and match!
Can I make these Vegan Berry Crumble Bars gluten-free?
Yes! Use certified gluten-free oat flour and oats to ensure these bars are entirely gluten-free.
How can I customize my Vegan Berry Crumble Bars?
Add nuts, seeds, or coconut flakes to the topping for added texture and flavor. You can also experiment with different sweeteners.
Are Vegan Berry Crumble Bars suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! These bars store well and make a great grab-and-go snack or dessert throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
Vegan Berry Crumble Bars are not only delicious but also versatile and healthy! They’re perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without compromising on nutrition. Feel free to customize with your favorite fruits or toppings—these bars are sure to please everyone!
Vegan Berry Crumble Bars
Indulge in the delightful taste of Vegan Berry Crumble Bars, a wholesome treat that will satisfy your sweet cravings without any guilt. These scrumptious bars feature a luscious layer of fresh or frozen mixed berries, complemented by a crunchy oatmeal crumble topping. Perfectly gluten-free and refined sugar-free, they are not only easy to make but also versatile enough to be enjoyed on any occasion—whether as a dessert at gatherings or a quick snack throughout the week. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your healthy baking repertoire.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 9 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 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 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 tbsp pure maple syrup (for berry layer)
- 1 tbsp water
- 1/2 tsp cornstarch
- 1/2 cup oat flour (for crumble topping)
- 1/4 cup oats
- 2 tbsp almond flour (for crumble topping)
- 1/4 cup melted refined coconut oil (for crumble topping)
- 1 tbsp pure maple syrup (for crumble topping)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (for crumble topping)
- pinch of salt (for crumble topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine almond flour, oat flour, and salt. Add melted coconut oil and maple syrup; mix until combined. Spread evenly in a greased or lined 8×8 baking dish.
- In a pot over medium heat, combine mixed berries, maple syrup, and water until softened. Mash until chunky; stir in cornstarch and simmer for about 5-10 minutes until thickened.
- For the crumble topping, mix oats, oat flour, almond flour, salt, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract in another bowl until crumbly.
- Pour the berry mixture over the base layer in the baking dish and top with crumble mixture. Bake for 25 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool completely before slicing into squares.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg