Triple Berry Crumb Bars

Triple Berry Crumb Bars are a delightful gluten-free dessert that brings the taste of pie without the fuss. Bursting with fresh, juicy berries, these bars are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer picnic, a family gathering, or just a sweet treat after dinner. The combination of flavors makes these crumb bars a standout dessert that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal preparation time, making it perfect for busy bakers.
• Fresh and Fruity: Packed with blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries, these bars are a refreshing choice.
• Gluten-Free Delight: Using gluten-free flour ensures everyone can enjoy this tasty treat without worry.
• Versatile Dessert: Serve them warm with ice cream or chilled for a refreshing snack; they fit any occasion perfectly.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for easy access to delicious desserts all week long.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Triple Berry Crumb Bars, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking pan (9×13”)
• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Whisk
• Fork or pastry cutter
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking pan: A 9×13” pan is ideal for achieving an even bake and perfect bar size.
• Mixing bowls: Having separate bowls allows you to mix different components without cross-contamination of flavors.
• Whisk: A whisk helps incorporate ingredients smoothly, ensuring even distribution throughout the batter.
• Fork or pastry cutter: This tool is crucial for blending butter into the flour mixture to create that desired crumbly texture.

Ingredients

For the Crust and Topping

• 3 cups + 1 heaping Tablespoon gluten free baking flour blend WITH binder (divided)
• 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. 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 the mixed berries along with 1/2 cup granulated sugar and the heaping tablespoon of gluten-free flour.
2. Stir gently to combine, then set aside.

Step 3: Make the Crust Mixture

In a large bowl:
1. Stir together the 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.
3. Drizzle this mixture over the dry ingredients in your large bowl.
4. Add cubed butter to the bowl. Use a fork to stir everything together until well combined.
5. Switch to using your fingers or a pastry cutter until small crumbles of butter remain visible.

Step 4: Assemble the Bars

1. Scoop slightly more than half of your crumb mixture into the prepared pan.
2. Firmly press it down into an even layer to form the crust.
3. Pour your berry mixture over this crust layer and spread evenly.
4. Squeeze handfuls of remaining crumble mixture into clumps with your hands and sprinkle evenly over the berries.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 38–40 minutes or until the crumble topping is light golden brown:
1. Rotate baking pan halfway through for even cooking.
2. Check on bars at halfway mark; cover with foil if topping browns too quickly.
3. Uncover during last 8–10 minutes so it can get golden brown on top.

Let cool completely before cutting into squares and serving. These bars soften as they sit but get better with time! Store in the refrigerator if not eaten within 24 hours for best quality.

How to Serve Triple Berry Crumb Bars

Triple Berry Crumb Bars are versatile and can be enjoyed in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or having a quiet evening at home, these bars will add sweetness to your occasion.

Serve Warm with Ice Cream

• Pair warm Triple Berry Crumb Bars with a scoop of vanilla or dairy-free ice cream for a comforting dessert experience.

Top with Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra creaminess that complements the berry flavors beautifully.

Enjoy with Fresh Berries

• Serve alongside fresh berries to enhance the fruity taste and provide a refreshing contrast to the crumbly texture.

Drizzle with Honey

• A light drizzle of honey over the bars can add an extra touch of sweetness, making for an irresistible treat.

Make it a Breakfast Treat

• Enjoy these bars as a quick breakfast option paired with your favorite yogurt for a balanced start to your day.

How to Perfect Triple Berry Crumb Bars

To ensure your Triple Berry Crumb Bars turn out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.

• Use fresh berries: Fresh berries offer the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture.

• Measure flour accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method to measure gluten-free flour properly, ensuring the right consistency in your crumb bars.

• Chill the butter: If you’re using regular butter, make sure it’s cold. This helps create a flaky texture in the crumb topping.

• Rotate the pan: Halfway through baking, rotate your baking pan 180 degrees for even cooking and browning on all sides.

• Cool completely before cutting: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares for cleaner edges.

Best Side Dishes for Triple Berry Crumb Bars

While Triple Berry Crumb Bars are delicious on their own, pairing them with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience.

1. Vanilla Yogurt: Creamy vanilla yogurt adds richness and balances the sweetness of the bars.

2. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad made with seasonal fruits brightens up the plate and adds a refreshing element.

3. Cheese Platter: Pairing with mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese creates a sweet-savory combination that intrigues the palate.

4. Nut Butter Dip: Serve with almond or peanut butter for a nutritious twist that brings added flavor.

5. Herbed Tea: A soothing cup of herbal tea complements the sweetness while providing a relaxing end to your meal.

6. Granola Parfait: Layering granola, yogurt, and sliced berries creates an inviting parfait that mirrors the flavors of the bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Triple Berry Crumb Bars, it’s easy to overlook some details that can affect your final product. Here are common mistakes to avoid.

• Overmixing the dough – Mixing too much can lead to tough bars. Mix until just combined for a tender crumb.
• Using the wrong flour blend – Ensure you use a gluten-free flour blend with a binder. This helps achieve the right texture and structure.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately – Use proper measuring cups for dry and wet ingredients. Accurate measurements guarantee consistent results.
• Skipping the cooling time – Allowing the bars to cool completely before cutting is essential. This ensures they set properly and hold their shape.
• Ignoring bake times – Keep an eye on your bars as they bake; every oven is different. Check for a light golden top to ensure they’re done.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Triple Berry Crumb Bars

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight when ready to eat.

Reheating Triple Berry Crumb Bars

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Heat individual squares for 15-20 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop – Place bars in a skillet over low heat, covered, for about 5 minutes or until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Triple Berry Crumb Bars.

Can I use different berries for Triple Berry Crumb Bars?

You can absolutely substitute other berries like strawberries or blackcurrants! Just ensure they have similar moisture content.

How do I make these bars vegan?

Replace the butter with vegan butter and use a flax egg or chia egg instead of a regular egg.

What’s the best way to serve Triple Berry Crumb Bars?

These bars are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with whipped cream or a scoop of dairy-free ice cream for extra indulgence!

How long do Triple Berry Crumb Bars last?

They last up to 5 days in the refrigerator if stored correctly. For longer storage, freeze them!

Can I add nuts or oats to these bars?

Yes! Adding chopped nuts or oats can enhance the texture and flavor. Just adjust your crumb mixture accordingly.

Final Thoughts

Triple Berry Crumb Bars are an easy-to-make dessert that combines sweet berries with a delightful crumb topping. They are perfect for gatherings or as a treat any day of the week. Feel free to customize these bars by adding your favorite fruits or toppings. Enjoy this versatile recipe!