When you’re looking for a delightful treat that perfectly blends sweet and tart flavors, look no further than these Vegan Berry Crumble Bars. They’re packed with juicy berries and topped with a crunchy, crumbly layer that makes each bite utterly satisfying. Whether you’re sharing with friends, enjoying a snack with tea, or looking for a simple dessert to bring to potlucks, these bars are sure to impress. Plus, they’re super easy to make, and the ingredients are wholesome and plant-based. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this delicious recipe!
What You’ll Need for Vegan Berry Crumble Bars
To make these mouthwatering Vegan Berry Crumble Bars, gather the following ingredients:
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For the Base:
- 1 1/2 cups almond flour (150g)
- 1/4 cup oat flour (30g)
- 1/4 cup melted refined coconut oil (60ml)
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup (60ml)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
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For the Berry Layer:
- 1 cup berries (fresh or frozen; 150g)
- 1 1/2 tbsp pure maple syrup (22ml)
- 1 tbsp water (15ml)
- 1/2 tsp cornstarch (optional for thickening)
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For the Crumble Topping:
- 1/2 cup oat flour (60g)
- 1/4 cup oats (25g)
- 2 tbsp almond flour (15g)
- 1/4 cup melted refined coconut oil (60ml)
- 1 tbsp pure maple syrup (15ml)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Guide to Vegan Berry Crumble Bars
Creating these bars is as simple as pie! Follow these easy steps to bring them to life:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Make the base layer: In a mixing bowl, combine almond flour, oat flour, and salt. Stir well.
- Pour in the melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract into the flour mixture. Mix until everything is combined.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased or lined 8×8 baking dish. Press it down firmly to create an even base. Set aside.
- Prepare the berry layer: In a small pot, combine the berries, maple syrup, and water. Heat over low to medium heat.
- As the berries begin to soften, mash them gently with a potato masher or fork to remove large chunks. After mashing, stir in the cornstarch and let it simmer for 5-10 minutes until thickened.
- Once thickened, remove from heat and transfer the mixture to a bowl. Place it in the fridge to cool and thicken further.
- For the crumble topping, mix together the oats, oat flour, almond flour, and salt in a bowl. Add in melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir until combined and crumbly.
- Remove the berry mixture from the fridge and pour it evenly over the base layer in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle the crumble topping on top of the berry layer. For a nice texture, use your fingers to pinch and flatten the crumble before placing it on top.
- Bake for about 25 minutes, or until the topping is golden and fragrant.
- Allow it to cool completely in the dish. Once cooled, cut into squares and enjoy!
How to Serve Vegan Berry Crumble Bars
For a delightful presentation, try serving your Vegan Berry Crumble Bars on a pretty plate alongside a dollop of vegan yogurt or a scoop of dairy-free ice cream. Fresh mint leaves can add a nice touch of color and freshness, too. These bars are perfect for breakfast, a midday snack, or even dessert, making them incredibly versatile!
Expert Tips for Vegan Berry Crumble Bars
- Mix up the Berries: Feel free to combine different types of berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a mixed berry flavor.
- Add Some Zest: A little lemon or lime zest mixed into the berry layer can add a lovely citrus brightness.
- Storage: These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. They also freeze well, so feel free to make a double batch for future snacking!
Vegan Berry Crumble Bars: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of flours?
Yes! You can experiment with other gluten-free flours such as coconut flour or buckwheat flour to suit your taste preferences.
What if I don’t have cornstarch?
If you don’t have cornstarch on hand, you can omit it. The berries will still create a delicious layer, it just might be a bit runnier.
Can I make these nut-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute almond flour with sunflower seed flour for a nut-free option.
Try these Vegan Berry Crumble Bars today and indulge in a tasty, healthy treat that everyone will love! They’re easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Happy baking!