In need of a healthy dessert recipe that still tastes delicious? Vegan Berry Crumble Bars are your answer. These delightful bars are made with fresh or frozen mixed berries and topped with a crunchy oatmeal crumble, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer picnic, celebrating a birthday, or simply wanting a sweet snack, these bars will satisfy your cravings without compromising your health. Plus, they are gluten-free and refined sugar-free!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy Indulgence: These bars offer a guilt-free dessert option packed with nutrients from berries and wholesome ingredients.
- Quick and Easy: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you’ll have these delicious bars ready in no time.
- Versatile Options: Use any mix of berries you prefer—fresh or frozen—for a customizable treat.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time to enjoy throughout the week as an easy grab-and-go snack.
- Family-Friendly: Even kids love the sweet and fruity flavor of these Vegan Berry Crumble Bars!
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making your Vegan Berry Crumble Bars, gather all necessary tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Baking dish (8×8)
- Potato masher or fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients evenly for both the base layer and the crumble topping.
- Baking dish (8×8): Perfect size for even baking of the bars, ensuring they cook through thoroughly.
- Potato masher or fork: Helps easily mash the berries into a smooth mixture without large chunks.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make your Vegan Berry Crumble Bars:
- 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
How to Make Vegan Berry Crumble Bars
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set the oven to 350 degrees. This preheating step is crucial for baking your bars evenly.
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 baking dish (8×8) and flatten it evenly across the bottom. Set aside.
Step 3: Create the Berry Layer
- In a pot, add your choice of berries along with maple syrup and water.
- Heat on low to medium until the berries soften. Use a potato masher or fork to mash them slightly.
- Stir in cornstarch and let simmer for about 5–10 minutes until thickened. Once done, remove from heat and chill in the fridge.
Step 4: Make the Crumble Topping
- In another mixing bowl, combine oats, oat flour, almond flour, and salt.
- Pour in melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Mix until crumbly but cohesive.
Step 5: Assemble Your Bars
- Take out the chilled berry mixture from the fridge. Pour it over the prepared base layer in the baking dish.
- Spread it evenly across the base layer before adding the crumble topping on top. Squeeze chunks between your fingers for texture before placing on top.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in your preheated oven for about 25 minutes until golden brown.
Step 7: 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 can be enjoyed in various ways that enhance their delightful flavors and textures. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.
Warm with Coconut Cream
- Serve the bars warm and top them with a dollop of coconut cream for a rich, creamy contrast.
With Dairy-Free Ice Cream
- Pair the crumble bars with your favorite dairy-free ice cream for a deliciously cold treat. This combination is perfect for hot days!
Drizzled with Maple Syrup
- A light drizzle of pure maple syrup adds extra sweetness and enhances the berry flavors beautifully.
Topped with Fresh Berries
- Garnish the bars with fresh berries for an added burst of flavor and a lovely presentation.
As a Breakfast Option
- Enjoy these bars as a healthy breakfast option, served alongside a cup of herbal tea or coffee to start your day right.
With Chopped Nuts
- Sprinkle chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts on top for added crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the berries perfectly.
How to Perfect Vegan Berry Crumble Bars
To achieve the best results when making Vegan Berry Crumble Bars, keep these tips in mind.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh or high-quality frozen berries will give you better flavor and texture in your crumble bars.
- Let them cool completely: Allowing the bars to cool before cutting helps them hold their shape and makes slicing easier.
- Adjust sweetness: Taste the berry mixture before baking; feel free to adjust the maple syrup based on your preference for sweetness.
- Experiment with spices: Adding cinnamon or nutmeg to the crumble topping can enhance flavors and add warmth.
- Store properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days to maintain freshness.
- Freeze for later: These bars freeze well! Wrap them tightly and store them in the freezer for up to three months for a quick dessert option.
Best Side Dishes for Vegan Berry Crumble Bars
For an even more enjoyable dessert experience, consider pairing your Vegan Berry Crumble Bars with these delicious side dishes.
- Coconut Yogurt: A creamy, dairy-free yogurt that complements the tartness of the berries perfectly.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds color and vibrancy alongside your crumble bars.
- Chia Seed Pudding: This nutritious pudding pairs well, adding a unique texture contrast and additional health benefits.
- Smoothie Bowl: A thick smoothie bowl topped with granola provides a fun twist when served alongside the crumble bars.
- Granola Parfait: Layer vegan yogurt, granola, and fruit for a delightful parfait that complements your dessert.
- Nut Butter Dip: A simple dip made from almond or peanut butter offers protein and richness that balances the sweetness of the bars.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Vegan baking can be tricky, and mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid when making Vegan Berry Crumble Bars.
- Using the wrong type of flour: Stick to almond and oat flour for the best texture. Other flours may alter the consistency.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision is key in baking. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure you get the right amounts.
- Skipping the chilling time for berry filling: Allowing the berry mixture to cool ensures it thickens properly. Don’t rush this step!
- Overbaking the crumble bars: Keep an eye on your bars while they bake. Overbaking can make them dry and less enjoyable.
- Ignoring flavor balance: Adjust sweetness as needed. Taste your berry mixture before layering to ensure it’s just right.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing.
Freezing Vegan Berry Crumble Bars
- Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
- For easy serving, cut into squares before freezing and layer with parchment paper.
Reheating Vegan Berry Crumble Bars
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat for 20-30 seconds at a time until warm, but don’t overdo it.
- Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat, cover, and warm gently until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Vegan Berry Crumble Bars?
Vegan Berry Crumble Bars are a healthy dessert made with layers of oats, almond flour, and mixed berries. They are gluten-free and refined sugar-free.
Can I use frozen berries for the crumble bars?
Yes! Frozen berries work well in this recipe. Just remember to thaw them slightly before cooking down into the berry layer.
How do I customize my Vegan Berry Crumble Bars?
You can add nuts or seeds into the crumble topping or experiment with different fruits like peaches or apples for variety!
How many servings do these bars yield?
This recipe makes 16 delicious Vegan Berry Crumble Bars, perfect for sharing or meal prep!
Final Thoughts
Vegan Berry Crumble Bars are not only delightful but also versatile. You can adjust ingredients based on your preferences, making them suitable for any occasion. Try them today, and enjoy a healthy dessert that everyone will love!
Vegan Berry Crumble Bars
Indulge in the wholesome goodness of Vegan Berry Crumble Bars, a delightful dessert that offers a perfect balance of taste and nutrition. These bars are packed with vibrant mixed berries, delivering a burst of flavor in every bite. Topped with a satisfying crunchy oatmeal crumble, they are gluten-free and refined sugar-free—making them an ideal guilt-free treat for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a sweet snack, a picnic dessert, or something special for birthday celebrations, these bars will surely please your palate without compromising your health. Enjoy them warm with coconut cream or chilled alongside dairy-free ice cream for an irresistible experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x
- 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, and salt. Mix in melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until combined.
- Press the mixture into an 8×8 greased baking dish as the base layer.
- In a pot, heat berries with maple syrup and water until soft. Mash slightly before stirring in cornstarch; simmer until thickened.
- In another bowl, mix oats, oat flour, almond flour, and salt for the crumble topping. Add melted coconut oil and maple syrup; mix until crumbly.
- Layer the berry mixture over the base layer and sprinkle crumble topping on top.
- Bake for about 25 minutes until golden brown. Allow to cool before cutting into squares.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
