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 picnics, parties, or a sweet treat at home, they are gluten-free and refined sugar-free.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these bars in no time.
• Deliciously Sweet: The combination of berries and maple syrup creates a naturally sweet flavor without refined sugars.
• Versatile: Feel free to use any mix of berries you have on hand, making it adaptable to your taste preferences.
• Health-Conscious: Enjoy a guilt-free dessert that’s satisfying and made with wholesome ingredients.
• Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields 16 bars, making it great for gatherings or meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To get started on your Vegan Berry Crumble Bars, gather the following tools. These will help ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Baking dish (8×8)
• Potato masher or fork
• Spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining the different layers of your bars efficiently.
• Baking dish (8×8): The perfect size for creating evenly baked bars that cut well into squares.
• Potato masher or fork: Helps break down the berries easily, ensuring a smooth layer.

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 your bars bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Base Layer

In a mixing bowl, combine:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup oat flour
– 1/4 tsp salt

Add in:
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/3 cup melted refined coconut oil
– 1 tsp vanilla extract

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

Step 3: Cook the Berry Layer

In a pot, add:
– 1 cup berries (fresh or frozen)
– 1 1/2 tbsp pure maple syrup
– 1 tbsp water

Heat over low to medium heat. Once the berries begin to soften, mash them using a potato masher or fork until there are no large chunks. Stir in:
– 1/2 tsp cornstarch

Let this simmer for about 5–10 minutes until thickened. Once ready, remove from heat and transfer to a bowl. Place it in the fridge to thicken further.

Step 4: Create the Crumble Topping

In another mixing bowl, combine:
– 1/2 cup oat flour
– 1/4 cup oats
– 2 tbsp almond flour
– pinch of salt

Then add:
– 1/4 cup melted refined coconut oil
– 1 tbsp pure maple syrup
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Mix well until crumbly in texture.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Remove the berry mixture from the fridge and pour it over the base layer in your baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Next, take the crumble topping and squeeze chunks between your fingers before placing it on top of the berry layer for even coverage.

Bake for about 25 minutes until golden brown on top. Allow cooling before cutting into squares.

Enjoy your Vegan Berry Crumble Bars as a delightful treat!

How to Serve Vegan Berry Crumble Bars

Vegan Berry Crumble Bars are not only delicious but also versatile in how you can enjoy them. 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 your favorite dairy-free ice cream for a creamy contrast that complements the berry flavors.

Drizzled with Nut Butter

• A drizzle of almond or peanut butter adds a rich, nutty flavor that balances the sweetness of the bars.

Fresh Fruit Garnish

• Top with fresh berries or sliced bananas for added texture and freshness, making every bite delightful.

Accompanied by Coconut Whipped Cream

• Serve alongside coconut whipped cream for a light and fluffy topping that enhances the overall taste.

As Part of a Breakfast Parfait

• Layer pieces of the crumble bars with yogurt and granola for a nutritious breakfast option that feels indulgent.

With Herbal Tea

• Enjoy these bars with a cup of herbal tea to create a cozy afternoon snack perfect for winding down.

How to Perfect Vegan Berry Crumble Bars

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

• Use fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh or high-quality frozen berries for the best flavor in your filling.
• Check consistency: Make sure your berry mixture is thick enough before adding it to the base layer; this will prevent sogginess.
• Let cool completely: Allowing the bars to cool completely before cutting helps maintain their shape and makes them easier to serve.
• Adjust sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of maple syrup based on your desired level of sweetness.
• Experiment with toppings: Try adding nuts or seeds to the crumble topping for extra crunch and nutrition.
• Store properly: Keep leftover bars in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness for up to one week.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Berry Crumble Bars

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

1. Coconut Yogurt – This creamy yogurt pairs well with berry flavors and adds probiotics to your meal.
2. Fruit Salad – A colorful mix of seasonal fruits can provide refreshing contrasts in flavor and texture.
3. Chia Pudding – The smooth consistency of chia pudding complements the bar’s crumbly texture while being nutritious.
4. Granola Mix – A crunchy granola can give an extra layer of texture when served on the side or sprinkled on top.
5. Herbal Infusion Tea – Enjoying these bars with a calming herbal tea creates a comforting snack time experience.
6. Nut and Seed Trail Mix – A blend of nuts and seeds offers healthy fats and protein, making it an excellent complement to sweet desserts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes can make your Vegan Berry Crumble Bars even more delightful. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them:

• Using the wrong flour: Different flours absorb moisture differently. Stick to almond and oat flour as specified for the best texture.
• Overcooking the berries: Cooking berries too long can make them too mushy. Keep an eye on them while they simmer for the right consistency.
• Skipping the cooling step: Allowing the bars to cool before cutting is crucial. This helps them set properly and makes slicing easier.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision is key in baking. Use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy to ensure great results.
• Neglecting to line your baking dish: Lining your dish with parchment paper makes it easier to remove the bars once baked, preventing any mess.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep the bars at room temperature if consuming within two days; otherwise, refrigerate.

Freezing Vegan Berry Crumble Bars

• Freeze for up to 3 months without losing quality.
• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Reheating Vegan Berry Crumble Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat for 20-30 seconds on medium power, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Vegan Berry Crumble Bars:

Can I use other fruits in Vegan Berry Crumble Bars?

Yes! You can substitute other fruits like apples or peaches based on your preference or what’s in season.

Are Vegan Berry Crumble Bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! This recipe uses oat flour and almond flour, both of which are gluten-free options.

How do I make Vegan Berry Crumble Bars healthier?

To make these bars healthier, consider reducing the maple syrup slightly or adding seeds like chia or flaxseed for extra nutrition.

Can I add nuts or seeds to my Vegan Berry Crumble Bars?

Definitely! Chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts can be mixed into the crumble topping for added crunch and flavor.

What can I serve with Vegan Berry Crumble Bars?

These bars are delicious on their own but pair well with coconut yogurt or a scoop of dairy-free ice cream for an extra treat.

Final Thoughts

Vegan Berry Crumble Bars are not only simple to make but also versatile enough to adapt to your taste preferences. Feel free to experiment with different fruits or add-ins like nuts and seeds. Give this healthy dessert a try, and enjoy a guilt-free indulgence that everyone will love!