In need of a healthy dessert recipe that still tastes delicious? Vegan Berry Crumble Bars are your answer. These delightful treats combine fresh or frozen mixed berries with an oatmeal crumble topping, creating a triple-layered delight that satisfies all your healthy baking needs. Perfect for gatherings, picnics, or as a guilt-free snack, these bars are gluten-free and refined sugar-free, making them suitable for various occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy Ingredients: Made with wholesome ingredients like almond flour and maple syrup, these bars are nutritious and delicious.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep, you can whip up a batch in no time.
- Versatile Flavor: You can use any type of berries you have on hand, making this recipe adaptable to your taste.
- Perfect for Sharing: Cut into squares, these bars are great for parties or family gatherings.
- Guilt-Free Indulgence: Enjoy the sweetness without the added refined sugars or unhealthy fats.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making your Vegan Berry Crumble Bars, gather your tools. Having everything on hand will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Potato masher or fork
- 8×8 baking dish
- Spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without spilling.
- Measuring cups: Ensure accurate ingredient quantities for consistent results every time.
- Potato masher or fork: Helps to easily mash the berries for the filling, creating a smooth texture.
- Baking dish: A reliable 8×8 dish is perfect for setting the base layer and ensuring even cooking.
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 Filling
- 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 your bars bake evenly throughout.
Step 2: Prepare the Base Layer
- In a mixing bowl combine the almond flour, oat flour, and salt.
- Add in the maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
- Transfer this mixture into a greased or lined 8×8 baking dish. Flatten it evenly across the bottom and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Berry Filling
- In a pot, add the berries, maple syrup, and water.
- Heat on low to medium until berries start to soften. Mash with a potato masher or fork to remove large chunks.
- Stir in cornstarch then let simmer for 5–10 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and place in fridge to thicken further.
Step 4: Prepare the Crumble Topping
- In another bowl, combine oats, oat flour, almond flour, and salt.
- Add melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract; mix until crumbly. Set aside.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
- Remove berry mixture from fridge; pour over base layer and spread evenly.
- Top with crumble mixture by squeezing chunks between fingers before placing on top of berry layer.
- Bake for 25 minutes until golden brown.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
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 not only delightful on their own but can also be served in various creative ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.
Pair with Dairy-Free Ice Cream
- A scoop of creamy dairy-free ice cream complements the warm crumble bars perfectly, providing a refreshing contrast.
Drizzle with Coconut Cream
- Lightly whipped coconut cream adds richness and a tropical twist that enhances the berry flavors.
Serve with Fresh Berries
- Garnishing your crumble bars with fresh berries boosts their visual appeal and adds an extra burst of flavor.
Accompany with Herbal Tea
- A cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile or mint, makes for a soothing pairing that balances the sweetness of the dessert.
Top with Nuts or Seeds
- Sprinkling chopped nuts or seeds on top provides a crunchy texture, adding an interesting layer to each bite.
How to Perfect Vegan Berry Crumble Bars
Creating the perfect Vegan Berry Crumble Bars is easy with a few simple tips. Follow these suggestions for the best results.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure that your berries are fresh for maximum flavor. If using frozen, thaw them and drain excess liquid.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste your berry mixture before baking. Feel free to add more maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter filling.
- Even Layering: Spread the berry layer evenly over the base to ensure consistent flavor in every bite.
- Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool fully before cutting them into squares. This helps them hold their shape better.
- Experiment with Flavors: Try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the crumble topping for added depth of flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Vegan Berry Crumble Bars
To complement your Vegan Berry Crumble Bars, consider serving one of these delightful side dishes. Each option adds a unique touch to your dessert spread.
- Coconut Yogurt: Creamy and tangy, this yogurt enhances the fruitiness of the bars while keeping it light and refreshing.
- Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits brings brightness and balances out the richness of the bars.
- Granola: Crunchy granola can be served on the side for an added texture and flavor contrast, perfect for those who love some crunch.
- Chia Pudding: This healthy pudding pairs well with crumble bars and offers a nutritious boost while being deliciously creamy.
- Nuts Medley: A selection of mixed nuts provides protein and crunch, making for an enjoyable snack alongside dessert.
- Herbed Quinoa Salad: This light salad adds a savory element that contrasts nicely with sweet desserts like crumble bars.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Vegan Berry Crumble Bars can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Accurate measurements ensure the right texture and flavor. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
- Using overly ripe or mushy berries: Overripe berries can lead to a soggy filling. Choose fresh, firm berries for the best results.
- Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the berry mixture allows it to thicken properly. Don’t rush this step; it enhances the final texture.
- Overbaking the crumble: Keeping an eye on your bars while they bake prevents a dry topping. Bake until golden brown for the perfect crunch.
- Cutting bars too soon: Allowing them to cool completely helps maintain their shape. Wait until they are cool before cutting into squares.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 5 days in the fridge.
Freezing Vegan Berry Crumble Bars
- Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap.
- Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating Vegan Berry Crumble Bars
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat one bar at a time for 20-30 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Vegan Berry Crumble Bars.
What can I use instead of almond flour?
You can substitute almond flour with oat flour or another gluten-free flour blend for similar results.
Can I use frozen berries?
Yes! Frozen berries work well and save you preparation time. Just make sure they are thawed and drained before using.
How do I make these bars gluten-free?
Use certified gluten-free oats and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as needed.
Can I customize the berry filling?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix different berries like blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries based on your preference.
How long do Vegan Berry Crumble Bars last?
They last up to 5 days in the refrigerator and can be frozen for up to 3 months if stored properly.
Are Vegan Berry Crumble Bars healthy?
Yes! These bars are made with wholesome ingredients and are both refined sugar-free and gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
Vegan Berry Crumble Bars are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with your favorite fruits or add nuts for extra crunch. Give this easy recipe a try; it’s perfect for dessert or a sweet snack!
Vegan Berry Crumble Bars
Indulge guilt-free with these delightful Vegan Berry Crumble Bars! Bursting with juicy berries and topped with a satisfying oatmeal crumble, these bars are the perfect healthy dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, enjoying a picnic, or simply craving a nutritious snack, these gluten-free and refined sugar-free treats fit the bill. With wholesome ingredients like almond flour and pure maple syrup, they promise both flavor and nourishment. Easy to make and customizable with your favorite berries, these bars will quickly become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 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 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 your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine almond flour, oat flour, and salt. Stir in melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until well mixed. Press into a greased 8×8 baking dish.
- For the filling, heat berries with maple syrup and water in a pot. Mash them slightly, then add cornstarch and simmer until thickened.
- For the crumble topping, mix oats, oat flour, almond flour, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla until crumbly.
- Layer the berry mixture over the base layer and top with the crumble. Bake for 25 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (45g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg