Name: Vegan Berry Crumble Bars
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups almond flour; 0.25 cups oat flour; 0.33 cups melted refined coconut oil; 0.25 cups pure maple syrup; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 0.25 tsp salt; 1 cup berries, fresh or frozen; 1.5 tbsp pure maple syrup; 1 tbsp water; 0.5 tsp cornstarch; 0.5 cups oat flour; 0.25 cups oats; 2 tbsp almond flour; 0.25 cups melted refined coconut oil; 1 tbsp pure maple syrup; 0.5 tsp vanilla extract; pinch salt

Introduction to Vegan Berry Crumble Bars

If you're on the lookout for a dessert that's both delicious and healthy, look no further than vegan berry crumble bars. These delightful treats combine the sweetness of fresh or frozen berries with a satisfying oatmeal crumble topping, creating a dessert that's not only tasty but also guilt-free. Whether you need a snack to power through your afternoon slump or a dessert that impresses guests, these bars deliver.

What makes vegan berry crumble bars a must-try? For starters, they are naturally sweetened with pure maple syrup, eliminating the need for refined sugars. Plus, the use of almond and oat flours makes them gluten-free, catering to various dietary preferences. Did you know that incorporating berries into your diet can provide a plethora of health benefits, from reducing inflammation to boosting brain health? By choosing these bars, you're not just indulging your sweet tooth; you're also feeding your body nourishing ingredients.

These bars are easy to whip up, requiring only about an hour from start to finish. Perfect for meal prep or a cozy weekend baking project, they offer a delightful balance of textures and flavors, ensuring everyone will ask for seconds. Ready to create your own batch? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients for Vegan Berry Crumble Bars

When it comes to making vegan berry crumble bars, the right ingredients can make all the difference! Let’s break it down into three delicious components: the base, the berry filling, and the oat crumble topping.

Base Ingredients

For the foundation of these bars, you’ll need:

1 ½ cups almond flour - for a nutty flavor and texture
¼ cup oat flour - helps bind everything together
⅓ cup melted refined coconut oil - adds moisture and richness
¼ cup pure maple syrup - for natural sweetness
1 teaspoon vanilla extract - a touch of aromatic flavor
¼ teaspoon salt - to enhance the flavors

Berry Middle Ingredients

The heart of your vegan berry crumble bars features:

1 cup fresh or frozen berries - blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries work wonderfully
1 ½ tablespoon pure maple syrup - to sweeten the berry layer
1 tablespoon water - to help the berries cook down
½ teaspoon cornstarch - for thickening the filling

Oat Crumble Topping Ingredients

Finally, for the delectable crumble topping, gather:

½ cup oat flour - for structure
¼ cup oats - for that comforting crunch
2 tablespoon almond flour - to complement the base
¼ cup melted refined coconut oil - to create a crumbly texture
1 tablespoon pure maple syrup - a little sweetness goes a long way
½ teaspoon vanilla extract - because it’s just so good
Pinch of salt - to balance all the flavors

With these carefully selected ingredients, you're all set to create a mouth-watering vegan berry crumble bar that’s sure to impress! For more baking inspirations, check out this guide on healthy desserts that will keep your sweet tooth satisfied.

Preparing Vegan Berry Crumble Bars

Creating vegan berry crumble bars is a delightful adventure that leads to a scrumptious and healthful dessert. These bars not only satisfy your sweet tooth but are also tailored to fit a plant-based lifestyle. Let’s walk through the steps clearly and effortlessly!

Preheat and Prep the Baking Dish

Before diving into the delicious layers of this recipe, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the bars bake evenly right from the start. While your oven warms up, take an 8×8-inch baking dish and grease it lightly or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later on. This step is crucial because no one wants a sticky mess when it’s time to enjoy your tasty creation!

Create the Base Layer

Now, let’s focus on the base layer. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of almond flour and ¼ cup of oat flour with a pinch of salt. This combination adds a pleasantly nutty flavor and a perfect crumbly texture. Next, you’ll need to stir in ⅓ cup of melted refined coconut oil, ¼ cup of pure maple syrup, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until it forms a cohesive dough. Once combined, press this mixture firmly into the prepared baking dish, creating an even layer that will support your berry filling beautifully.

Make the Berry Filling

For the berry filling, take your choice of 1 cup of berries—whether fresh or frozen. In a small pot, mix the berries with 1 ½ tablespoon of pure maple syrup, 1 tablespoon of water, and ½ teaspoon of cornstarch. Heat this mixture over low to medium heat, gently mashing the berries with a fork or potato masher as they soften. The cornstarch will help thicken the sauce, creating a delightful, gooey consistency. Allow it to simmer for 5-10 minutes and then set aside to cool slightly.

Prepare the Oat Crumble Topping

While your berry filling is cooling, turn your attention to the crumble topping. In a mixing bowl, combine ½ cup oat flour, ¼ cup oats, and 2 tablespoon almond flour. Stir in ¼ cup of melted refined coconut oil, 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, ½ teaspoon vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. The result should be a mixture that’s crumbly yet holds together when pressed.

Assemble and Bake the Bars

Once everything is prepped, it’s time to assemble your vegan berry crumble bars. Pour the berry mixture over the base layer and spread it out evenly. Next, sprinkle your oat crumble topping generously over the berry layer. For a great texture, squeeze pieces of the crumble topping between your fingers before placing them on top—this will create lovely chunks!

Now, bake the bars in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until the crumble is golden brown. Once baked, let them cool in the dish for a while before slicing them into squares. These bars are not just visually appealing; they are a perfect blend of flavors and textures that everyone will love!

With these easy steps, you’ll have a delicious batch of vegan berry crumble bars to impress friends and family. For more berry-based inspiration, check out this guide on berry health benefits. Enjoy!

Variations on Vegan Berry Crumble Bars

Mixed Berry Options

These vegan berry crumble bars are incredibly versatile! Feel free to mix and match your berries based on the season or what you have on hand. Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries work beautifully—each adding its unique twist to the flavor profile. If using frozen berries, just remember to let them thaw slightly before cooking to achieve the best consistency.

Gluten-Free Substitutions

If you're looking to make these bars gluten-free, you can easily substitute the oat flour with a gluten-free blend or almond flour. Just ensure that your oats are certified gluten-free. Additionally, consider using coconut flour in the crumble topping for an interesting texture variation. This way, everyone can enjoy your delicious vegan berry crumble bars, no matter their dietary preferences!

For more insights on berry nutrition, check out Healthline's guide to berries.

Cooking tips and notes for Vegan Berry Crumble Bars

Ensuring the perfect texture

To achieve the ideal texture in your vegan berry crumble bars, make sure your oat crumble topping is mixed until it resembles wet sand. This ensures it crisps up nicely while baking. If you want an extra crunch, consider adding a tablespoon of chopped nuts or seeds into the topping mixture for that delightful bite.

Storing leftovers properly

For best results, store your vegan berry crumble bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer to keep them longer, refrigerate them for a week, or freeze for up to 3 months! Just be sure to layer parchment paper between bars to prevent sticking. Enjoy your healthy indulgence anytime!

Serving suggestions for Vegan Berry Crumble Bars

Enjoying warm or chilled

The beauty of vegan berry crumble bars lies in their versatility. You can enjoy them warm, right out of the oven, when the crumble is still crisp and the berry filling is bubbling with flavor. Alternatively, chill them in the fridge for a refreshing dessert that’s perfect for warm days. No matter your preference, these bars provide a delicious treat that can satisfy your sweet tooth anytime.

Pairing with plant-based ice cream

For an irresistible dessert experience, try pairing your vegan berry crumble bars with a scoop of your favorite plant-based ice cream. The creamy richness of the ice cream complements the tartness of the berries beautifully, creating a delightful contrast in textures. Vanilla, coconut, or even a fruity flavor like mango works wonders. Want to elevate the experience even more? Drizzle some warm berry sauce over the top—your taste buds will thank you!

Time Breakdown for Vegan Berry Crumble Bars

Preparation Time
Get ready to whip up some deliciousness in just 40 minutes! This time includes gathering your ingredients, mixing, and layering your vegan berry crumble bars.

Baking Time
Pop your creation into the oven and let it bake for 25 minutes. This will allow the layers to meld together beautifully and soak up all that delicious berry flavor.

Total Time
In just 1 hour and 5 minutes, you'll have a fresh batch of vegan berry crumble bars ready to enjoy. Quick, healthy, and heavenly—what’s not to love?

Nutritional Facts for Vegan Berry Crumble Bars

Calories
Each of these delightful vegan berry crumble bars packs around 150 calories, making them a guilt-free dessert option.

Carbohydrates
With approximately 22 grams of carbohydrates per bar, these treats provide a satisfying energy boost without the heavy feeling.

Fiber Content
Enjoy about 3 grams of fiber in each bar, thanks to the wholesome oats and berries, promoting digestive health and keeping you feeling full longer.

For an in-depth look at the health benefits of ingredients used in vegan baking, check out this informative article from Healthline. Eating cleaner can be delicious and rewarding!

FAQs about Vegan Berry Crumble Bars

Can I use different types of fruit?

Absolutely! While this recipe shines with mixed berries, feel free to experiment with other fruits like chopped apples, peaches, or even cherries. The flexibility of the vegan berry crumble bars allows you to use seasonal fruits or whatever you have on hand, making this recipe even easier to love.

Are these bars easy to make ahead of time?

Yes! These bars are perfect for meal prepping. Simply prepare them ahead of time and store them in the fridge for a quick, healthy snack throughout the week. You can also freeze them for up to three months—just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.

How do I store the bars for optimal freshness?

To keep your vegan berry crumble bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They should last about a week—if they last that long! If you’ve baked a larger batch, consider cutting them into squares and freezing half for later. For best quality, let them cool completely before storing.

For more tips on storing baked goods, check out The Kitchn.

Conclusion on Vegan Berry Crumble Bars

These vegan berry crumble bars are more than just a dessert—they're a delightful way to enjoy wholesome ingredients while satisfying your sweet tooth. Perfect for gatherings or a simple treat, they offer layers of flavor and texture that will impress everyone, whether they're vegan or not!