Blueberry Crumb Bars with Oatmeal Topping

There’s something inherently comforting about the combination of sweet blueberries and a crumbly oatmeal topping. These Blueberry Crumb Bars with Oatmeal Topping offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures that make them a standout dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply want a midweek treat, these bars are sure to impress. The rich, buttery base contrasts beautifully with the tart blueberries, while the oatmeal topping adds a delightful crunch. Perfect for sharing, these bars are easily transported, making them an excellent choice for picnics or potlucks.

Ingredients

Before diving into the preparation, let’s talk about what you’ll need to make these delicious blueberry crumb bars. The ingredients are straightforward and commonly found in most kitchens, which makes this recipe not only tasty but also convenient.

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups old-fashioned oats
  • 3 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for blueberry filling)

Instructions

With your ingredients ready, it’s time to start baking. The process is simple, and in just a few steps, you’ll have a batch of these delightful bars ready to enjoy.

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready when the bars are prepared.
  2. Prepare the crust: In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add baking soda, salt, flour, and oats, then mix until just combined.
  3. Assemble the base: Press about two-thirds of the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, ensuring an even layer that covers the entire bottom.
  4. Prepare the blueberry filling: In a separate bowl, mix the blueberries with lemon juice, cornstarch, and the additional 1/4 cup of granulated sugar. Toss until the berries are well-coated.
  5. Layer the filling: Spread the blueberry mixture evenly over the crust in the baking pan.
  6. Add the topping: Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the blueberries, covering them as completely as possible.
  7. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the blueberries are bubbling.
  8. Cool and serve: Allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before cutting into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutrition Facts

Understanding the nutritional content of your food is important for maintaining a balanced diet. These blueberry crumb bars offer a delightful indulgence with the following nutritional breakdown:

  • Servings: 12
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 350 calories

Preparation Time

One of the great aspects of this recipe is its simplicity and quick turnaround. From start to finish, these blueberry crumb bars take about an hour to prepare and bake. Here’s a breakdown:

  • Preparation time: 15 minutes
  • Baking time: 40-45 minutes
  • Cooling time: 15 minutes

How to Serve

These blueberry crumb bars are versatile and can be served in various ways to suit your taste and occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience:

  • Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert combination.
  • Drizzle with warm caramel sauce for added sweetness and flavor.
  • Top with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a light and airy touch.
  • Pair with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack.
  • Enjoy as a breakfast treat alongside a bowl of Greek yogurt.

Additional Tips

To ensure your blueberry crumb bars turn out perfectly every time, consider these additional tips:

  1. Use fresh blueberries: While frozen blueberries will work, fresh blueberries provide a better texture and flavor.
  2. Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter dessert, increase the sugar in the blueberry filling to taste.
  3. Line your pan: For easier removal and clean-up, line your baking pan with parchment paper.
  4. Experiment with spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the oat mixture for a spiced twist.
  5. Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about making blueberry crumb bars, along with their answers:

  1. Can I use other fruits instead of blueberries?

    Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, and you can substitute blueberries with raspberries, blackberries, or even a mix of berries. Adjust the sugar and cornstarch to taste, depending on the sweetness and juiciness of the fruit.

  2. How should I store leftover bars?

    Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.

  3. Can I freeze these bars?

    Yes, these bars freeze well. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

  4. What if I don’t have cornstarch?

    If you don’t have cornstarch, you can use an equal amount of all-purpose flour or arrowroot powder as a thickener for the blueberry filling.

  5. Can I make these bars vegan?

    To make this recipe vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, such as coconut oil or vegan butter. Ensure that all other ingredients, like sugar, are vegan-friendly as well.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *