Triple Berry Crumb Bars

Triple Berry Crumb Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the natural sweetness of berries with a crumbly topping. These bars are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a picnic, or just a treat for yourself. They taste like pie but are much easier to prepare, making them a go-to choice for berry lovers everywhere.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal prep time and simple steps, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries creates a burst of fresh, juicy flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect as an afternoon snack or as a sweet ending to dinner, these bars can be enjoyed anytime.
• Gluten-Free Option: Made with gluten-free flour, everyone can indulge without worry.
• Make Ahead: These bars store well and even improve in flavor after sitting in the refrigerator.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools is essential for making your Triple Berry Crumb Bars efficiently. Gather these items before you start baking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Fork or pastry cutter
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Pan: A 9×13-inch pan is perfect for achieving the ideal thickness for crumb bars while ensuring even cooking.
• Mixing Bowls: Using separate bowls keeps dry ingredients and wet ingredients organized, simplifying the mixing process.
• Whisk: A whisk helps incorporate air into the egg mixture and blend all ingredients smoothly for an even texture.
• Fork or Pastry Cutter: These tools help create the crumbly topping by cutting butter into the flour mixture effectively.

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Ingredients

For the Crust and Topping

• 3 cups + 1 heaping Tablespoon gluten free baking flour blend WITH binder (divided, see notes)
• 1 cup granulated sugar (divided)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup cold butter or vegan butter (2 sticks, cubed)

For the Filling

• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 pint blueberries
• 6 oz raspberries
• 6 oz blackberries

How to Make Triple Berry Crumb Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While waiting for it to heat up, spray a 9×13” baking pan with nonstick spray and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Berries

In a medium-sized bowl:
1. Add blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and heaping tablespoon of gluten-free flour.
2. Stir gently to combine and set aside.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl:
1. Stir together remaining gluten-free flour (3 cups), remaining granulated sugar (1/2 cup), brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
2. In a small dish, whisk together the egg and vanilla extract. Drizzle this mixture over the flour mixture.
3. Add cubed butter to the bowl. Use a fork to stir everything together until combined.
4. Switch to using your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend until small crumbles of butter remain.

Step 4: Assemble the Bars

1. Scoop more than half of the crumb mixture into your prepared pan; press firmly into an even layer.
2. Pour prepared berries over this crust evenly.
3. Squeeze handfuls of remaining crumble mix into clumps with your hands before sprinkling it evenly over the berries.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for 38-40 minutes or until topping is light golden brown:
1. Rotate the baking pan halfway through cooking time.
2. Check on bars at this halfway mark; cover with foil if browning too quickly.
3. Uncover during last 8-10 minutes to allow topping to become golden brown.

Let cool completely before cutting into squares and serving! These bars will soften as they sit in storage but taste even better after resting overnight in the refrigerator!

How to Serve Triple Berry Crumb Bars

Serving your Triple Berry Crumb Bars can elevate the experience and make it even more delightful. Here are some creative ideas to enjoy these sweet treats.

With Fresh Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top for a light and airy contrast to the crumb bars.

A Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream

• Pair the bars with a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream to enhance their fruity flavors. The creaminess balances the texture perfectly.

Accompanied by Greek Yogurt

• Serve with a generous spoonful of Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. This adds a protein boost and makes for a satisfying dessert.

Drizzled with Honey or Maple Syrup

• Drizzle honey or maple syrup over the bars for extra sweetness. This simple touch can make them irresistible.

With Fresh Berries

• Garnish with fresh blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for added color and flavor. It also enhances the berry theme of the dessert.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Include the crumb bars on a larger dessert platter alongside other treats like cookies and brownies for an appealing variety.

How to Perfect Triple Berry Crumb Bars

Making perfect Triple Berry Crumb Bars involves attention to detail. Follow these tips for best results.

• Use cold butter: Cold butter helps create that delicious crumbly texture in your bars. Make sure it’s well-chilled before mixing.

• Don’t overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense bars instead of light and crumbly ones.

• Let cool completely: Allow your bars to cool completely before cutting them into squares. This helps them set properly and maintain their shape.

• Store properly: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This keeps them fresh and enhances their flavor over time.

• Experiment with berries: Don’t hesitate to mix different types of berries based on what you have available! Each combination brings its own unique taste.

• Add spices: Consider adding spices like nutmeg or ginger for an additional flavor dimension if you want something different.

Best Side Dishes for Triple Berry Crumb Bars

Pairing side dishes with your Triple Berry Crumb Bars can create a complete meal or snack experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad complements the bars perfectly, offering a light and healthy contrast.

2. Nut Mix: A crunchy nut mix adds texture and protein, making it a satisfying side option.

3. Cheese Platter: Include a variety of cheeses (both dairy-free options) alongside crackers for a savory counterpart to the sweetness.

4. Coffee or Herbal Tea: A warm beverage like coffee or herbal tea provides comfort and balances out the sweetness of the bars.

5. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a delightful parfait that pairs wonderfully with berry flavors.

6. Granola Bars: Homemade granola bars add crunch and can be enjoyed as part of your dessert spread, offering another layer of flavor.

7. Chia Pudding: A creamy chia pudding can serve as a nutritious side dish that complements the berry theme beautifully.

8. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy, sweet treats offer another layer of indulgence while still being easy to prepare alongside your crumb bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Triple Berry Crumb Bars, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final outcome. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Not measuring flour correctly: Using too much or too little flour can lead to dense bars. Always spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off for accuracy.
• Skipping the chilling step: If you don’t chill the butter before mixing, the texture may not be crumbly enough. Ensure your butter is cold and cubed before starting.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too vigorously can lead to tough bars. Mix until just combined to keep them light and tender.
• Ignoring baking time: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your bars towards the end of baking, as they can quickly go from perfect to overdone.
• Storing improperly: If you leave them out at room temperature for too long, they can become soggy. Always store in an airtight container in the fridge for optimal freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Triple Berry Crumb Bars

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

Reheating Triple Berry Crumb Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm bars for about 10 minutes for a fresh-baked taste.
• Microwave: Heat one bar on high for 15-20 seconds until warm. Be careful not to overheat!
• Stovetop: Place a bar in a skillet over low heat, covered, for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Triple Berry Crumb Bars that might help you during your baking process.

Can I use frozen berries for Triple Berry Crumb Bars?

Yes, you can use frozen berries! Just ensure they’re thawed and drained before mixing with sugar.

How do I make these bars gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free baking flour blend that contains a binder like xanthan gum or guar gum to achieve the right texture.

Can I substitute other fruits in the recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix up the berries or use other fruits like peaches or cherries according to your preference.

What should I serve with Triple Berry Crumb Bars?

They pair wonderfully with whipped coconut cream or a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

Final Thoughts

Triple Berry Crumb Bars are not only easy to make but also versatile. You can customize them with your favorite berries or even add nuts for crunch. These bars are perfect as a dessert or a sweet snack any time of day—give them a try!