Vegan Berry Crumble Bars

Crumble bars are perfect for breakfast, dessert, and everything in between! What if I told you we could make the famous crumble bars even more nutrient dense without altering the texture or flavor at all? I know, sounds impossible, but stay with me here. Let’s talk about why making this dish vegan is such a great option, and rather easy too! Vegan desserts often use whole food ingredients such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds, which can provide additional nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They tend to be lower in saturated fat and cholesterol, making them a healthier option for those looking to reduce their intake of animal products. They are typically free from dairy, eggs, and other common allergens, making them suitable for people with lactose intolerance, egg allergies, or those following a plant-based or vegan lifestyle. Choosing vegan desserts helps to promote ethical treatment of animals by avoiding ingredients derived from animal products. Vegan desserts also contribute to reducing the environmental impact of the food industry, as plant-based ingredients tend to have a lower carbon footprint compared to animal-based ingredients. Vegan desserts can cater to a variety of dietary preferences and restrictions. They are suitable for vegans, vegetarians, those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies, and people who follow gluten-free or soy-free diets, as long as the recipe is adapted accordingly. Okay, now let’s get to the fun part. Got your apron? 

Here is the famous recipe which will get you the most beautiful, mouth watering vegan dessert you have ever tasted. 

Ingredients:

For the crust and crumble topping:

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option)
• 1/2 cup coconut sugar (or any other granulated sweetener)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted
• 1/4 cup maple syrup or agave nectar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the berry filling:

• 3 cups mixed berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup or agave nectar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch or arrowroot powder

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish (9x9 inches or equivalent) with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, coconut sugar, baking soda, and salt for the crust and crumble topping. Mix well.
3. Add the melted coconut oil, maple syrup or agave nectar, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir until the mixture is evenly combined and crumbly.
4. Set aside about 1 cup of the mixture for the crumble topping. Press the remaining mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the mixed berries, lemon juice, maple syrup or agave nectar, and cornstarch or arrowroot powder. Toss until the berries are coated evenly.
6. Spread the berry mixture over the crust in the baking dish.
7. Sprinkle the reserved crumble topping evenly over the berries.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust and topping are golden brown and the berry filling is bubbling.
9. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely in the baking dish.
10. Once cooled, lift the bars out of the dish using the parchment paper and transfer to a cutting board. Cut into squares or rectangles.
11. Serve and enjoy! These vegan crumble berry bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

These delicious vegan crumble berry bars are perfect for dessert or a sweet snack. Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sweetener according to your preference. Enjoy!