Ah, blueberry crumble bars! Just thinking about them makes me smile. These delightful treats are a nostalgic part of my childhood. I remember my mom whipping up a batch during the summer when blueberries were in season. The sweet aroma wafting through the house was simply irresistible! I love how these bars strike a perfect balance between the tangy blueberries and the buttery crumble topping – absolute perfection! They’re versatile too, making a fantastic snack or a dessert. Plus, they’re great for sharing at gatherings or simply enjoying on your couch with a cup of tea.
Let me also tell you that making blueberry crumble bars is surprisingly easy! With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a batch of warm, gooey goodness ready to be devoured. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get baking!
What’s in Blueberry Crumble Bars?
Blueberries: The star of the show! I typically use fresh blueberries, but if they’re out of season, frozen ones work just as well. Just make sure to thaw and drain them properly to avoid sogginess.
Granulated Sugar: A little bit of sweetness helps to enhance the natural flavor of the blueberries.
Brown Sugar: I love using brown sugar for the crumble topping. It adds a rich depth and that molasses richness that pairs beautifully with the fruit.
All-Purpose Flour: This is the backbone of both the crust and the crumble topping. Nothing fancy, just the good ol’ reliable flour will do the trick.
Oats: I use rolled oats in the crumble topping to add texture. They provide a hearty bite, making the bars even more satisfying.
Butter: Unsalted butter is my go-to for a fulfilling, buttery flavor. Take it out ahead of time so it’s soft enough to cream well.
Baking Powder: Just a teaspoon helps the crust rise a bit, giving it a light texture.
Salt: A pinch of salt is essential. It balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors!
Is Blueberry Crumble Bars Good for You?
When it comes to desserts, blueberry crumble bars have some redeeming qualities!
Blueberries: These tiny powerhouses are packed with antioxidants and vitamins, particularly Vitamin C and Vitamin K. They’re known for their anti-inflammatory properties and are linked to brain health.
Oats: They add fiber, which is great for digestive health. Plus, oats can help keep you feeling full and satisfied.
However, while these bars do have beneficial ingredients, they are still a dessert and can pack quite a bit of sugar and fat. It’s all about enjoying them in moderation. If you’re looking to make them a bit healthier, try cutting the sugar down a bit, using whole grain flour, or experimenting with a butter substitute.
Ingredients
– 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries (if using frozen, thawed)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
This recipe makes about 12 bars, depending on how you slice them.
How to Make Blueberry Crumble Bars?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the blueberries, granulated sugar, and about 1 tablespoon of flour (this helps prevent the filling from being too runny). Set aside.
3. In a separate large bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and salt until creamy.
4. Add the baking powder and the remaining flour to the butter mixture, and stir until combined.
5. Next, stir in the rolled oats until it forms a crumbly mixture.
6. Press about two-thirds of this mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.
7. Spread the blueberry mixture evenly over the crust. Then, crumble the remaining oat mixture on top of the blueberries.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the blueberries are bubbling.
9. Once done, let it cool for at least 30 minutes before cutting into bars.
Baking Adventures with Blueberry Crumble Bars!
– If you’re looking for variations, try adding lemon zest for a zesty twist or swap blueberries for raspberries or peaches.
– Serve the bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat.
– If you’re feeling fancy, drizzling some melted chocolate on top adds a wonderful touch!
I genuinely hope you give these blueberry crumble bars a try! They’re incredibly comforting and a slice of summer in every bite. If you make them, please share your experience! Happy baking!
