Triple Berry Crumb Bars

Triple Berry Crumb Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the fresh flavors of blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries in a simple and satisfying treat. These bars are perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to casual weeknight desserts. With their crumbly topping and juicy berry filling, they taste just like a slice of pie but require much less effort to make!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With a straightforward process, these bars come together quickly—perfect for busy bakers.
• Fresh Flavor: The mix of three berries creates a vibrant taste that is both sweet and slightly tart.
• Versatile Dessert: Enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or even breakfast treat with your morning coffee!
• Gluten-Free Option: Made with gluten-free flour, these bars cater to those with dietary restrictions.
• Great for Sharing: Cut into squares, they’re ideal for potlucks or picnics.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Triple Berry Crumb Bars, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Fork
• Pastry cutter (optional)
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Pan: A 9×13-inch pan provides ample space for even baking and easy serving.
• Mixing Bowls: Having separate bowls allows you to mix dry ingredients separately from wet ones for better texture.
• Fork: Great for blending butter into the flour mixture until it reaches the right consistency.
• Pastry Cutter: If you prefer a flaky texture, this tool helps incorporate the butter evenly into the dry ingredients.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious Triple Berry Crumb Bars:

For the Crust

• 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)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla

For the Filling

• 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-inch baking pan with nonstick spray and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Berries

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

Step 3: Make the Crust Mixture

In a large bowl:
1. Combine the remaining gluten-free flour, remaining granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Whisk together an egg and vanilla in a small dish. Drizzle this over the flour mixture.
3. Add in cubed butter. Use a fork to combine everything until small clumps of butter remain.

Step 4: Assemble the Bars

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

Step 5: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for 38–40 minutes or until the crumb topping turns light golden brown:
1. Rotate the baking pan halfway through cooking time.
2. Check on it at halfway; if browning too quickly, cover with foil for protection.
3. Uncover during the last 8–10 minutes to allow topping to get golden brown.

Once baked, let cool completely before cutting into small squares. These bars will soften as they sit—and they get even better after chilling! Store any leftovers in the refrigerator if not eaten within 24 hours. Enjoy your delicious Triple Berry Crumb Bars!

How to Serve Triple Berry Crumb Bars

Triple Berry Crumb Bars are a delightful dessert that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying them on a cozy night in, these bars can elevate any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance the experience.

With Whipped Coconut Cream

• A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light and fluffy texture, perfectly balancing the tartness of the berries.

Over Vanilla Ice Cream

• Warm the bars slightly and serve them over a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast.

As Breakfast Treats

• Enjoy your Triple Berry Crumb Bars as a quick breakfast option with coffee or tea. They’re sweet, satisfying, and easy to grab on the go.

Paired with Fresh Berries

• Serve alongside additional fresh berries for a burst of flavor and color on your plate. This adds freshness to each bite!

Drizzled with Honey or Maple Syrup

• A light drizzle of honey or maple syrup enhances sweetness, making every mouthful even more indulgent.

Garnished with Mint Leaves

• Adding fresh mint leaves as a garnish not only makes the presentation pop but also adds a refreshing note to the dessert.

How to Perfect Triple Berry Crumb Bars

To achieve the best Triple Berry Crumb Bars, keep these tips in mind. These small adjustments can make a big difference in taste and texture.

• Use Fresh Berries: Fresh berries yield better flavor than frozen ones, ensuring your bars have that juicy burst in every bite.

• Chill Your Butter: Make sure your butter is cold before mixing; this helps create a crumbly texture that is key to crumb bars.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough bars instead of tender ones.

• Let Them Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool fully before cutting. This ensures clean edges and prevents them from falling apart.

• Store Correctly: Keep leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Triple Berry Crumb Bars

Pairing side dishes with your Triple Berry Crumb Bars can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits will complement the flavors of the crumb bars and add brightness to your meal.

2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer dairy-free yogurt with granola and fresh berries for a delicious side that balances sweetness with creaminess.

3. Granola: Serve crunchy granola on the side for added texture, making each bite unique.

4. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses pairs well for those who enjoy contrasting flavors with their sweet treats.

5. Nut Mix: A blend of nuts adds crunch and healthy fats, providing a satisfying contrast to the soft crumb bars.

6. Herbal Tea: Serve alongside a calming herbal tea for a soothing after-dinner drink that complements dessert beautifully.

7. Dark Chocolate Squares: Rich dark chocolate offers an indulgent twist when paired with fruity desserts like these crumb bars.

8. Savory Scones: Light savory scones can provide balance against the sweetness of your dessert while adding variety to your table spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Triple Berry Crumb Bars can be simple, but common mistakes might lead to unsatisfactory results. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Incorrect Flour Measurement: Using too much or too little flour can affect the texture. Always measure accurately and level off the flour with a knife.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much can make the bars tough. Mix until just combined for a tender crumb.
• Not Chilling Ingredients: Using warm butter or eggs can alter the consistency. Ensure butter is cold and eggs are at room temperature for best results.
• Skipping the Cooling Step: Cutting into hot bars can lead to a mess. Allow them to cool completely before slicing for neat squares.
• Ignoring Baking Times: Every oven is different; checking doneness is key. Use visual cues like golden-brown topping instead of relying solely on time.

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 place in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Triple Berry Crumb Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat bars for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual squares on medium power for 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, covered, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Triple Berry Crumb Bars that may help you along the way.

Can I use frozen berries for Triple Berry Crumb Bars?

Yes, frozen berries work well! Just be sure to thaw and drain excess liquid before adding them.

How do I make Triple Berry Crumb Bars gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free baking flour blend that contains a binder, such as xanthan gum, for best results.

Can I customize the berries in my Triple Berry Crumb Bars?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix any combination of berries you prefer, such as strawberries or cherries.

What should I do if my crumb topping is browning too quickly?

Cover the bars loosely with foil during baking if they turn brown before they’re fully cooked.

Final Thoughts

These Triple Berry Crumb Bars offer a delightful mix of flavors and textures that everyone will enjoy. They’re perfect for potlucks or family gatherings and can easily be customized with your favorite berries. Try making them today!