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’re perfect for any occasion, ensuring everyone can enjoy a guilt-free dessert!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet berries and a crunchy topping creates a delightful contrast that will please your taste buds.
• Healthy Ingredients: These bars are made without refined sugars or unhealthy fats, making them a wholesome choice for dessert lovers.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you’ll have these bars ready in no time!
• Versatile Dessert: Enjoy them as an after-dinner treat, a snack, or even breakfast on the go—these bars fit into any meal plan.
• Gluten-Free Option: Using almond and oat flour ensures a gluten-free dessert that everyone can enjoy.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this recipe, gather the necessary tools to make your baking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Baking dish (8×8 inches)
• Potato masher or fork
• Stove or hot plate

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without mess.
• Baking dish: A sturdy dish ensures even baking and easy serving of the bars.
• Potato masher or fork: Helps in mashing the berries to create a smooth filling texture.

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 it’s at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake.

Step 2: Prepare the Base Layer

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. Almond flour, oat flour, and salt.
2. Add in the maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
3. Press this mixture into a greased or lined 8×8 baking dish evenly.

Step 3: Make the Berry Filling

In a pot, add:
1. The berries, maple syrup, and water. Heat on low to medium.
2. Once softened, mash with a potato masher or fork until large chunks are gone.
3. Stir in the cornstarch, then let simmer for about 5-10 minutes until thickened.

Step 4: Prepare the Crumble Topping

In another mixing bowl, combine:
1. The remaining ingredients: oat flour, oats, almond flour, and salt.
2. Mix in the melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until crumbly.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

1. Remove the berry mixture from heat; pour it over the base layer in the baking dish.
2. Spread evenly across.
3. Top it with crumble topping by squeezing small chunks between your fingers before placing on top.
4. Bake for 25 minutes until golden brown.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let cool completely before cutting into squares. Enjoy each bite of these tasty Vegan Berry Crumble Bars!

How to Serve Vegan Berry Crumble Bars

Vegan Berry Crumble Bars are versatile and can be enjoyed in many delightful ways. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them as a snack, here are some great ideas to enhance your experience.

With a Scoop of Dairy-Free Ice Cream

• Pair the bars with your favorite dairy-free ice cream for a creamy contrast that elevates the dessert.

Drizzled with Coconut Cream

• Add a drizzle of coconut cream on top for a rich and indulgent touch.

Accompanied by Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or blueberries to complement the berry flavors.

Paired with Herbal Tea

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

As a Breakfast Option

• Slice the bars into smaller pieces and enjoy them as a nutritious breakfast on the go.

With Nut Butter Spread

• Spread almond or peanut butter on top for added protein and flavor.

How to Perfect Vegan Berry Crumble Bars

Achieving the perfect Vegan Berry Crumble Bars is all about attention to detail. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your bars turn out amazing every time.

• Use Fresh Berries: Fresh berries will provide better flavor and texture compared to frozen ones. If using frozen, thaw and drain excess moisture before use.
• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Precise measurements ensure the right balance of flavors and textures in your bars.
• Let Them Cool Completely: Allowing the bars to cool completely helps them set properly, making it easier to cut into neat squares.
• Experiment with Flavors: Consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth and depth in flavor.
• Store Properly: Keep leftover bars in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness for up to a week.
• Add Texture: For an extra crunch, consider mixing in some chopped nuts or seeds into the crumble topping.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Berry Crumble Bars

When serving Vegan Berry Crumble Bars, pairing them with the right side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delicious options you might consider.

1. Coconut Yogurt: A creamy, dairy-free yogurt that adds richness and balances the sweetness of the bars.
2. Chia Seed Pudding: This healthy pudding provides a unique texture and can be flavored with vanilla or cocoa.
3. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits offers bright flavors that complement the berry crumble perfectly.
4. Granola: Crunchy granola can be served on the side or sprinkled on top for added texture and nutrition.
5. Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal can serve as a hearty accompaniment, especially when drizzled with maple syrup.
6. Smoothie Bowl: A vibrant smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds makes for a colorful addition alongside your dessert.
7. Tea Infused Rice Pudding: This comforting dish provides warmth and an unexpected flavor pairing that works well with berries.
8. Nutty Trail Mix: A simple mix of nuts, seeds, and dried fruits creates a crunchy side that pairs beautifully with sweet desserts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Vegan Berry Crumble Bars, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Not preparing the baking dish: Always grease or line your baking dish. This prevents the bars from sticking and makes it easier to lift them out after baking.
• Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Ensure that your coconut oil is melted but not too hot. Adding it while too warm can alter the texture of your mixture.
• Overmixing the base: Mix your base ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense bars rather than a light and crumbly texture.
• Skipping the cooling time: Let your bars cool completely before cutting. This helps them set properly and makes for cleaner slices.
• Using too many frozen berries: If using frozen berries, make sure to drain excess liquid. Too much moisture can make the filling runny and affect the final product.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing Vegan Berry Crumble Bars

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap or foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Vegan Berry Crumble Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat each bar for about 20-30 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop: Place in a non-stick pan over low heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Vegan Berry Crumble Bars:

Can I use different types of berries?

Absolutely! You can mix and match any berries you like, such as blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries, making this recipe quite versatile.

How do I make these bars gluten-free?

Simply use certified gluten-free oats and oat flour. The almond flour is already gluten-free!

Can I substitute maple syrup with another sweetener?

Yes, you can use agave syrup or coconut sugar as alternatives, but keep in mind that it may change the flavor slightly.

Why are my bars falling apart?

This could happen if they didn’t cool completely before cutting or if there was too much moisture in the berry layer. Make sure to follow storage tips!

How do I enhance the flavor of my bars?

Consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into your crumble topping for an extra kick of flavor!

Final Thoughts

Vegan Berry Crumble Bars are not only delicious but also a healthier alternative to traditional desserts. With their layered textures and vibrant flavors, they can be customized with various fruits or toppings based on your preference. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for any occasion!