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 potlucks, family gatherings, or just a sweet treat at home, they are both gluten-free and refined sugar-free.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients, these bars are a guilt-free indulgence.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps, anyone can whip up these delightful bars in no time.
- Versatile Options: Use any berries you have on hand—fresh or frozen—to customize the flavor.
- Perfect for All Occasions: Whether it’s a casual snack or a special dessert, these bars fit any event.
- Deliciously Satisfying: The combination of tart berries and sweet crumble makes for an irresistible treat.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes baking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your Vegan Berry Crumble Bars.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Baking dish (8×8 inches)
- Potato masher or fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly without spills.
- Baking dish: A sturdy 8×8 dish ensures even baking and easy serving.
- Potato masher or fork: Helps break down berries quickly for a perfect filling consistency.
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 combine:
Almond flour,
Oat flour,
Salt.
Add:
Maple syrup,
Melted coconut oil,
Vanilla extract.
Combine until smooth. Transfer this mixture into a greased or lined baking dish (8×8 inches) and spread it evenly. Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Berry Filling
In a pot, add:
Berries,
Maple syrup,
Water.
Heat on low to medium heat. Once softened, mash with a potato masher or fork to eliminate large chunks. Stir in:
Cornstarch.
Let it simmer for another 5–10 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and refrigerate to thicken further.
Step 4: Prepare the Crumble Topping
In another bowl, combine:
Oats,
Oat flour,
Almond flour,
Salt.
Add:
Melted coconut oil,
Maple syrup,
Vanilla extract.
Mix well and set aside.
Step 5: Assemble the Bars
Remove the berry mixture from the fridge and pour it over the base layer. Spread evenly. Top with crumble by squeezing chunks between your fingers before placing them over the berry layer.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Once done, let cool completely before cutting into squares.
Enjoy your delicious Vegan Berry Crumble Bars!
How to Serve Vegan Berry Crumble Bars
Vegan Berry Crumble Bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dessert experience.
With a Scoop of Dairy-Free Ice Cream
- Pair your bars with a scoop of vanilla or berry-flavored dairy-free ice cream for a creamy contrast.
Drizzled with Coconut Cream
- A drizzle of coconut cream adds richness and complements the berry flavors beautifully.
Topped with Fresh Berries
- Garnish your bars with fresh berries for added color and freshness, making them visually appealing.
Accompanied by a Hot Beverage
- Serve alongside herbal tea or coffee for a warm, comforting dessert experience.
As Part of a Dessert Platter
- Include these bars on a dessert platter with other healthy treats for an inviting presentation at gatherings.
How to Perfect Vegan Berry Crumble Bars
Perfecting your Vegan Berry Crumble Bars is simple with the right tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure they turn out delicious every time.
Use ripe berries: Fresh, ripe berries will provide the best flavor and texture for your crumble layer.
Don’t skip chilling: Allowing the berry mixture to chill helps it thicken and enhances the overall consistency of the bars.
Measure accurately: Accurate measurements of ingredients, especially flour, will ensure that your bars hold together well.
Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add cinnamon or nutmeg to the crumble topping for an extra layer of flavor.
Let them cool completely: Allowing the bars to cool fully before cutting helps them set better and makes slicing easier.
Best Side Dishes for Vegan Berry Crumble Bars
Vegan Berry Crumble Bars can be complemented by several side dishes that enhance their flavor and texture. Here are some great options:
- Coconut Yogurt: A smooth, creamy addition that balances sweetness perfectly.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing side that pairs well with the rich flavors of the bars.
- Chia Seed Pudding: This nutritious option adds texture and can be flavored with vanilla or almond extract.
- Granola Parfait: Layer granola and dairy-free yogurt for a crunchy contrast that elevates your dessert experience.
- Nut Butter Spread: A spread of almond or peanut butter provides healthy fats and adds an interesting twist in flavor.
- Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of herbal tea complements the sweetness of the bars without overpowering them.
- Dark Chocolate Squares: For chocolate lovers, dark chocolate offers a rich pairing that enhances the berry flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common pitfalls when making Vegan Berry Crumble Bars can elevate your baking experience.
- Skipping the chilling step: Failing to chill the berry mixture can result in a runny filling. Always refrigerate it for better consistency.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Eye-balling ingredients can alter the texture and flavor. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
- Overmixing the crumble topping: Overmixing can make the crumble dense instead of crumbly. Mix just until combined for the best texture.
- Using different types of sweeteners: Substituting maple syrup with other sweeteners might affect taste. Stick to pure maple syrup for an authentic flavor.
- Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at an incorrect temperature can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven and check with an oven thermometer.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Vegan Berry Crumble Bars in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing Vegan Berry Crumble Bars
- Cut the bars into squares before freezing for easier serving.
- Wrap each square in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Vegan Berry Crumble Bars
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat bars for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individual bars on medium power for about 30 seconds or until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for a few minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about Vegan Berry Crumble Bars, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries answered.
Can I use different fruits in Vegan Berry Crumble Bars?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different berries or fruit combinations according to your taste!
Are Vegan Berry Crumble Bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! This recipe uses almond flour and oat flour, making it perfect for gluten-free diets.
How do I know when Vegan Berry Crumble Bars are done baking?
The edges will be slightly golden brown, and the filling should be bubbly. A toothpick inserted into the crumble should come out clean.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare them a day or two in advance and store them in the fridge or freeze them for longer storage.
What can I serve with Vegan Berry Crumble Bars?
These bars pair well with dairy-free ice cream or whipped coconut cream for added indulgence!
Final Thoughts
Vegan Berry Crumble Bars are a delightful treat that combines healthiness with delectable flavors. Their versatility allows you to customize them with your favorite fruits or toppings. Give this recipe a try—you’ll love how easy it is to create such a satisfying dessert!
Vegan Berry Crumble Bars
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Vegan Berry Crumble Bars—an irresistible healthy dessert that combines the tartness of mixed berries with a crunchy oatmeal crumble. These bars are not only simple to make but also cater to both vegan and gluten-free diets, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether served at family gatherings, potlucks, or as a sweet treat at home, they will satisfy your cravings without any guilt. With fresh or frozen berries at your disposal, you can customize these bars to suit your taste. Experience the joy of wholesome baking with this easy recipe that promises to impress!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 9 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegan
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 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup berries, fresh or frozen
- 1 1/2 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 1 tbsp water
- 1/2 tsp cornstarch
- 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
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine almond flour, oat flour, salt, melted coconut oil, and maple syrup until smooth. Spread evenly in a greased 8×8-inch baking dish.
- In a pot over medium heat, combine berries, maple syrup, and water. Mash until chunky, then stir in cornstarch and simmer until thickened. Chill in the fridge.
- In another bowl, mix oats, oat flour, almond flour, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract for the crumble topping.
- Pour chilled berry mixture over the base layer and top with crumble mixture.
- Bake for 25 minutes until golden brown; allow to cool before cutting into squares.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (50g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
