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 gatherings, potlucks, or simply as a sweet snack, these bars are gluten-free and refined sugar-free!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Indulgence: Enjoy dessert without the guilt! These bars use wholesome ingredients to create a treat that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
• Versatile Flavors: Customize with your favorite berries or even mix in some nuts for added crunch.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you can whip these up in no time.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and keep them on hand for a quick dessert or snack throughout the week.
• Kid-Friendly: These bars are not only healthy but also delicious, making them perfect for kids’ lunchboxes or after-school snacks.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Vegan Berry Crumble Bars, gather the essential tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients easily without mess.
• Baking dish: A good-quality dish ensures even baking and easy removal of the bars.
• Potato masher or fork: Great for breaking down berries to create a luscious filling.
• Spatula: Helps in spreading layers evenly for consistent baking.

Ingredients

To prepare your Vegan Berry Crumble Bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Base Layer

• 1 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1/4 cup oat flour
• 1/4 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. This ensures that it’s hot enough to bake your bars evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Base Layer

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. Almond flour, oat flour, and salt. Mix well.
2. Add in:
– Maple syrup,
– Melted coconut oil,
– Vanilla extract.
3. Combine until smooth.
4. Transfer this mixture to a greased or lined 8×8 baking dish and flatten it evenly. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Berry Filling

For the berry layer:
1. In a pot, add:
– Your choice of berries,
– Maple syrup,
– Water.
2. Heat on low to medium until berries soften. Use a potato masher or fork to mash them into a chunky filling.
3. Add in:
– The corn starch,
4. Let it simmer for about 5-10 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and place in the fridge to cool further.

Step 4: Prepare the Crumble Topping

In another bowl:
1. Combine:
– Oats,
– Oat flour,
– Almond flour,
– Salt.
2. Mix in:
– Melted coconut oil,
– Maple syrup,
– Vanilla extract.
3. Combine until crumbly and set aside.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Once everything is ready:
1. Remove the berry mixture from the fridge and pour it over the base layer, spreading it evenly.
2. Top with crumble topping by squeezing chunks between your fingers before placing them over the berry layer.
3. Bake for 25 minutes until golden brown.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

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

How to Serve Vegan Berry Crumble Bars

Vegan Berry Crumble Bars are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a simple dessert or a fancy treat, these bars can fit the occasion.

With Dairy-Free Ice Cream

• Scoop your favorite dairy-free ice cream on top of a warm bar for a delightful contrast between hot and cold.

Topped with Coconut Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of coconut whipped cream to enhance the flavors and create a creamy texture that pairs well with the berry filling.

Drizzled with Maple Syrup

• A light drizzle of maple syrup can add extra sweetness, making these bars even more indulgent.

Served with Fresh Fruit

• Pair your bars with fresh slices of fruit like strawberries or bananas to add freshness and color to your dessert plate.

Accompanied by Herbal Tea

• Enjoy these bars with a warm cup of herbal tea for a cozy afternoon treat or dessert after dinner.

On a Dessert Platter

• Present the bars as part of a dessert platter alongside other treats like cookies or cupcakes for an attractive display at gatherings.

How to Perfect Vegan Berry Crumble Bars

To ensure your Vegan Berry Crumble Bars turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh berries will provide the best flavor and texture. If using frozen berries, allow them to thaw and drain excess liquid before cooking.
• Adjust Sweetness: Depending on your taste preference and the tartness of the berries, feel free to adjust the amount of maple syrup used in both layers.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your bars while baking. They should be lightly golden on top when done; overbaking can lead to dryness.
• Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting. This helps them set properly and makes slicing easier without crumbling.
• Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to add spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg to the crumble topping for added depth of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Berry Crumble Bars

Pairing side dishes with your Vegan Berry Crumble Bars can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and complements the berry flavors beautifully.
2. Chia Seed Pudding
   This creamy pudding provides a healthy contrast in texture and is easy to prepare ahead of time.
3. Granola Parfait
   Layer granola and yogurt (dairy-free) for added crunch and richness that meshes well with the berry bars.
4. Nut Butter Dip
   Serve almond or peanut butter as a dip for an extra protein boost alongside your sweet treat.
5. Coconut Yogurt
   A spoonful of coconut yogurt adds creaminess and balances the sweetness of the crumble bars nicely.
6. Herbal Infusion Drink
   An infusion made from mint or chamomile can refresh your palate after enjoying these delicious bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your experience while making Vegan Berry Crumble Bars.

• Using too much liquid – Adding excess liquid can make the bars soggy. Stick to the specified amounts of maple syrup and water.
• Not mashing the berries enough – Failing to mash the berries may lead to large chunks in your filling. Ensure you break them down well for a smooth consistency.
• Skipping the chilling step – Not chilling the berry mixture can result in a runny filling. Allow it to thicken in the fridge for best results.
• Overbaking – Baking for too long can dry out your bars. Keep an eye on them and remove them from the oven once they turn golden brown.
• Not using parchment paper – Skipping parchment paper may make it hard to remove the bars from the baking dish. Always line your dish for easy serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Vegan Berry Crumble Bars in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 5 days in the fridge.
• For best texture, place parchment paper between layers if stacking.

Freezing Vegan Berry Crumble Bars

• Place bars in a freezer-safe container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with date and name for easy identification.

Reheating Vegan Berry Crumble Bars

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place bars on a baking sheet, and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat individual bars on a microwave-safe plate for 20-30 seconds, checking for warmth.
• Stovetop – Warm bars in a non-stick skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I customize Vegan Berry Crumble Bars?

You can customize these bars by using different types of berries like blueberries or raspberries. You may also add nuts or seeds for extra crunch.

Can I make these Vegan Berry Crumble Bars gluten-free?

Yes, simply ensure that all ingredients used are certified gluten-free. Both almond flour and oat flour are naturally gluten-free options.

What type of berries work best?

Fresh or frozen mixed berries work wonderfully. Strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries provide great flavor combinations.

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

The bars should be golden brown on top and firm when gently pressed. Check around the 25-minute mark to avoid overbaking.

Can I use other sweeteners instead of maple syrup?

Yes, you may substitute maple syrup with agave syrup or date syrup if desired. Adjust quantities as needed based on sweetness preference.

Final Thoughts

Vegan Berry Crumble Bars are not only delicious but also versatile! You can easily adjust the recipe by incorporating different fruits or adding nuts. These healthy treats are perfect for dessert lovers looking for guilt-free options. Give this recipe a try and enjoy creating your own unique variations!