Triple Berry Crumb Bars

Triple Berry Crumb Bars are the perfect sweet treat for any occasion. With a delicious blend of blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries nestled in a crumbly topping, these bars offer a taste reminiscent of pie but require far less effort. Ideal for picnics, potlucks, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth at home, these gluten-free bars are sure to impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can whip up these bars in no time.
• Bursting with Flavor: The mix of fresh berries provides a delightful tartness that balances perfectly with the sweet crumb topping.
• Versatile Dessert: These bars work great for any event—serve them at birthday parties, barbecues, or as a delightful afternoon snack.
• Gluten-Free Delight: Made with gluten-free flour, everyone can enjoy this dessert without worry.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Store them easily in the fridge, making them an ideal make-ahead option for busy days.

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Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious Triple Berry Crumb Bars, you’ll need a few essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13” baking pan
• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Whisk
• Fork or pastry cutter
• Nonstick spray

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13” baking pan: This size is perfect for evenly baking your bars to get that golden top.
• Mixing bowls: Using different sizes helps keep ingredients organized as you prepare your recipe.
• Whisk: An essential tool for blending ingredients smoothly, ensuring even mixing and texture.
• Fork or pastry cutter: These tools help blend cold butter into the flour mixture for that perfect crumbly topping.

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)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla

For the Berries

• 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 it heats up, spray a 9×13” baking pan with nonstick spray and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Berries

In a medium-sized bowl, add the berries along with 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and a heaping tablespoon of gluten-free flour. Stir gently to combine and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Crust Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the remaining gluten-free flour (3 cups), granulated sugar (1/2 cup), brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. In a separate small dish, whisk together the egg and vanilla extract. Drizzle this mixture over the dry ingredients. Then add cubed butter. Use a fork to mix everything together before switching to a pastry cutter or your fingers until small clumps of butter remain.

Step 4: Assemble the Bars

Scoop just over half of the crumb mixture into your prepared pan. Press it firmly into an even layer. Pour the berry mixture over this crust layer and spread it out evenly. Take handfuls of the remaining crumb mixture and squeeze them into clumps before scattering them evenly over the berries.

Step 5: Bake

Bake your bars for 38-40 minutes or until they are light golden brown on top. Rotate the baking pan halfway through cooking. If you notice excessive browning on top during baking, cover it loosely with foil until done. Uncover during the last 8-10 minutes to achieve that perfect golden color. Allow cooling completely before cutting into squares for serving.

These Triple Berry Crumb Bars will soften as they sit but only get better! Store them in the refrigerator if they’re not eaten within 24 hours. Enjoy!

How to Serve Triple Berry Crumb Bars

Serving Triple Berry Crumb Bars is all about enhancing their delightful flavor and making them even more enjoyable. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your dessert experience.

A La Mode

• Scoop vanilla or dairy-free ice cream on top of warm bars for a creamy contrast.

With Fresh Whipped Cream

• Dollop homemade whipped cream over the bars for a light and fluffy texture.

Drizzled with Chocolate

• Add a drizzle of melted dark chocolate for a rich, decadent touch.

Paired with Yogurt

• Serve alongside Greek yogurt or dairy-free yogurt for a tangy complement.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Include the bars on a dessert platter with assorted fruits and nuts for variety.

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 provide the best flavor and texture. Choose ripe blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries for optimal sweetness.

• Measure flour accurately: Spoon and level the gluten-free flour to avoid dense bars. Too much flour can alter the texture significantly.

• Chill the butter: Cold butter helps create a crumbly topping. If your butter is too soft, it won’t yield the same delicious crunch.

• Don’t overmix: Gently mix the ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough bars.

• Let them cool completely: Allowing the bars to cool ensures they set properly and are easier to cut into squares.

Best Side Dishes for Triple Berry Crumb Bars

Pairing side dishes with your Triple Berry Crumb Bars can enhance your dessert spread. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the bars.

2. Cheese Platter: Include a selection of creamy cheeses, such as brie or goat cheese, to contrast with the berry flavors.

3. Nut Mix: A crunchy nut mix adds texture and complements the sweetness of the bars beautifully.

4. Mini Pavlovas: Light meringue nests topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit offer an elegant touch.

5. Coffee or Tea: A warm cup enhances the dessert experience, especially with flavors like vanilla or chai.

6. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These indulgent bites pair wonderfully with berry-flavored desserts, creating harmony in flavors.

7. Panna Cotta: This creamy Italian dessert creates a luxurious finish when served alongside fruity treats like these crumb bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Triple Berry Crumb Bars, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Using the wrong flour blend: Not all gluten-free flour blends are created equal. Make sure to use one that contains a binder for the best texture.
• Overmixing the crumb topping: Mixing too much can lead to tough bars. Blend until just combined for a tender bite.
• Ignoring berry preparation: Failing to coat berries in flour can result in them sinking in the batter. Always toss them with a bit of flour before mixing.
• Not checking baking time: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your bars. Start checking around the 35-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
• Skipping cooling time: Cutting into the bars too soon can make them crumble. Allow them to cool completely for clean squares.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Triple Berry Crumb Bars

• Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Triple Berry Crumb Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place bars on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one bar at a time for about 15-20 seconds, checking for warmth.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a pan over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about Triple Berry Crumb Bars:

Can I use frozen berries for Triple Berry Crumb Bars?

Yes, you can use frozen berries! Just be sure not to thaw them before adding them to your mixture.

How do I make these bars dairy-free?

To make Triple Berry Crumb Bars dairy-free, substitute regular butter with vegan butter.

Can I customize the berry mix?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out any of the berries or add more of your favorite kinds like strawberries or cranberries.

Why did my crumb topping turn out soggy?

This might happen if you overmixed the crumb ingredients or added too many wet berries. Aim for small clumps for better texture.

Final Thoughts

Triple Berry Crumb Bars are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them by using different berries or adding nuts. These bars make a perfect treat for gatherings or simply enjoying at home. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its delightful flavors!