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. They are gluten-free and refined sugar-free, making them perfect for various occasions like family gatherings, potlucks, or even a casual weeknight dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Indulgence: Enjoy a dessert that is both satisfying and nutritious, using wholesome ingredients.
• Versatile Options: Swap out the berries for your favorite fruits to change up the flavor profile.
• Simple Preparation: The recipe is straightforward and requires minimal effort, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Freezer-Friendly: These bars can be stored in the freezer for later enjoyment, perfect for meal prep.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for sharing at events; everyone will love this delightful treat!

Tools and Preparation

To make Vegan Berry Crumble Bars, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining different layers efficiently without mess.
• Baking dish: A sturdy dish helps achieve even cooking and allows for easy serving.
• Potato masher or fork: Simplifies the process of mashing berries into a smooth filling.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare Vegan Berry Crumble Bars:

For the Base Layer

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

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. This step ensures that your bars bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Base Layer

In a mixing bowl combine:
1. Almond flour,
2. Oat flour, and
3. Salt.

Add in:
– Maple syrup,
– Melted coconut oil,
– Vanilla extract.

Mix until well combined. Transfer this mixture to a greased or lined 8×8 baking dish and flatten evenly across the bottom. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Berry Filling

In a pot, add:
– Berries,
– Maple syrup,
– Water.

Heat on low to medium until the berries soften. Use a potato masher or fork to mash them down into a smoother consistency. Add cornstarch and let simmer for about 5-10 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and let cool; transfer to the fridge if needed.

Step 4: Prepare the Crumble Topping

In another bowl, combine:
– Oats,
– Oat flour,
– Almond flour,
– Salt.

Then incorporate:
– Melted coconut oil,
– Maple syrup,
– Vanilla extract.

Mix together until crumbly in texture.

Step 5: Assemble the Bars

Remove the berry mixture from the fridge and pour it over the base layer in your baking dish. Spread it evenly across. Top with crumble topping by squeezing chunks between your fingers before placing them on top of the berry layer.

Step 6: Bake

Place in the oven and bake for 25 minutes. Keep an eye on them towards the end to avoid over-baking.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow bars to cool completely before cutting into squares. Enjoy your delicious Vegan Berry Crumble Bars!

How to Serve Vegan Berry Crumble Bars

These Vegan Berry Crumble Bars are delightful on their own but can be served in various ways to elevate your dessert experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions.

Pair with Dairy-Free Ice Cream

• Scoop a generous portion of dairy-free vanilla ice cream on the side for a creamy contrast to the berry crumble.

Drizzle with Coconut Cream

• Whip up some coconut cream and drizzle it over the bars for added richness and flavor.

Serve with Fresh Berries

• Garnish each piece with fresh berries to enhance the berry flavor and add a pop of color to your plate.

Add a Dusting of Powdered Sugar

• Lightly sprinkle powdered sugar on top before serving for an elegant touch that also adds sweetness.

Enjoy with a Cup of Tea or Coffee

• Pair these bars with your favorite tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon snack that warms the heart.

Top with Chopped Nuts

• Sprinkle some chopped almonds or walnuts on top for an extra crunch and nutty flavor that complements the berries.

How to Perfect Vegan Berry Crumble Bars

To achieve the best results with your Vegan Berry Crumble Bars, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh berries instead of frozen. They provide better texture and flavor.
• Adjust sweetness: Taste your berry mixture while cooking and add more maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter filling.
• Let cool completely: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting. This helps them set properly for cleaner slices.
• Experiment with toppings: Try adding different spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the crumble topping for unique flavors.
• Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness, enhancing their taste over time.
• Cut evenly: Use a sharp knife and cut in one smooth motion for neat squares. You’ll impress everyone with how perfect they look!

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Berry Crumble Bars

These Vegan Berry Crumble Bars pair beautifully with various side dishes that complement their fruity flavors. Here are some great options.

1. Coconut Yogurt
   A creamy, dairy-free yogurt adds tanginess that balances the sweetness of the bars perfectly.

2. Fruit Salad
   A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the crumble bars.

3. Chia Seed Pudding
   This healthy pudding offers a nice texture that pairs well with the berry flavors, making for a nutritious side dish.

4. Granola Parfait
   Layer granola, plant-based yogurt, and berries in a glass for an appealing presentation alongside your bars.

5. Almond Butter Toast
   Spread almond butter on whole-grain toast as a hearty option that complements the dessert nicely.

6. Herbal Tea
   A warm cup of herbal tea enhances the dessert experience and brings soothing flavors to each bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Vegan Berry Crumble Bars, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using the wrong flour: Different flours have varying absorbencies. Stick to almond and oat flour for the best results in texture.

• Overcooking the berry layer: If you cook the berries too long, they can become too mushy. Remove them from heat as soon as they thicken.

• Not greasing the baking dish: Failing to grease or line your dish can lead to sticking. Ensure you use parchment paper or oil for easy removal.

• Skipping the chilling step: Letting your berry layer cool in the fridge is crucial for achieving the right consistency. Don’t skip this step!

• Ignoring portion sizes: Cutting them too large may make them difficult to handle. Aim for smaller squares for easier serving and enjoyment.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Vegan Berry Crumble Bars in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
• Make sure they are completely cooled before placing them in storage.

Freezing Vegan Berry Crumble Bars

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label your bags with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Vegan Berry Crumble Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Heat one bar at a time on medium power for 20-30 seconds until warm.

• Stovetop: Place a bar in a pan over low heat, cover, and warm gently for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of berries for Vegan Berry Crumble Bars?

Yes! Feel free to mix and match your favorite berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. This recipe is versatile and allows for customization based on seasonal fruits.

How do I make these bars gluten-free?

Using almond flour and oat flour makes these Vegan Berry Crumble Bars gluten-free. Just ensure that your oat flour is certified gluten-free if necessary.

What can I substitute for maple syrup?

You can use agave syrup or brown rice syrup as alternatives to maple syrup if desired. Keep in mind that this may alter the flavor slightly.

Can I add nuts or seeds?

Absolutely! Adding chopped nuts or seeds will enhance flavor and texture. Consider walnuts or chia seeds as tasty additions.

How do I know when my bars are done baking?

The edges should be lightly golden, and the topping should feel firm but not hard when you press down gently with a finger.

Final Thoughts

Vegan Berry Crumble Bars are not only delicious but also cater to various dietary needs, making them perfect for any occasion. Their versatility allows you to customize flavors with different fruits or toppings based on what you have on hand. Try this recipe today and enjoy a healthy dessert that satisfies every craving!