Indulge in Vegan Mixed Berry Pie Crumble Bars

When it comes to vegan desserts, there’s one treat that reigns supreme: the Vegan Mixed Berry Pie Crumble Bars. These delectable bars are a delightful combination of sweet and tart berries, a buttery crust, and a crunchy crumble topping. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or impressing guests at a gathering, these bars are a must-try for any dessert enthusiast.

Why Choose Vegan Mixed Berry Pie Crumble Bars?

Switching to a vegan lifestyle doesn’t mean sacrificing delicious flavors and textures. These bars are **100% vegan**, made with no animal products, and are both environmentally friendly and cruelty-free. Here’s why they should be on your dessert menu:

• Flavor Explosion: The mix of berries provides a burst of flavors in every bite.
• Texture Heaven: A buttery, flaky crust combined with a crunchy crumble top makes every bite satisfying.
• Versatile: Suitable for breakfast, a mid-day snack, or a dessert offering.
• Nutritious: Packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber from the berries.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create these delicious bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Crust & Crumble

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• Pinch of salt

For the Berry Filling

• 3 cups mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Creating these luscious bars is a straightforward process that anyone can follow. Here’s how:

1. Prepare the Crust and Crumble

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. In a large bowl, combine **oats, flour, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt**. Stir well to mix.
3. Add **melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract** to the dry mixture. Stir until the mixture forms a crumbly texture.
4. Press two-thirds of the mixture firmly into the prepared pan to form the crust. Set aside the remaining third for the crumble topping.

2. Make the Berry Filling

1. In a medium saucepan, combine **mixed berries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and lemon zest**.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and the berries release their juices (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

3. Assemble and Bake

1. Spread the berry filling evenly over the crust in the baking pan.
2. Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture evenly over the berry filling.
3. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the berry filling is bubbling.
4. Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
5. Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan and cut into squares.

Storage and Serving Tips

These bars are best enjoyed fresh, but they can also be stored for later enjoyment. Here are some tips:

Storing

• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate the bars for up to a week.
• You can also freeze the bars for up to 3 months. Just thaw them at room temperature before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
• Pair with a dollop of coconut whipped cream for a light, airy complement.
• Enjoy with a cup of herbal tea or your favorite plant-based milk.

Health Benefits of Mixed Berries

Including mixed berries in your diet is not only delicious but also beneficial to your health. Here are some reasons why:

• Antioxidants: Berries are packed with antioxidants like anthocyanins, which help reduce inflammation and protect your cells.
• Fiber-Rich: High in dietary fiber, berries support healthy digestion and can help control blood sugar levels.
• Vitamin C: Berries are an excellent source of vitamin C, essential for immune function and skin health.
• Heart Health: Regular consumption of berries has been linked to improved heart health and reduced LDL cholesterol levels.

Final Thoughts on Vegan Mixed Berry Pie Crumble Bars

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just exploring plant-based desserts, Vegan Mixed Berry Pie Crumble Bars are a delightful addition to your recipe repertoire. Easy to make and loaded with the goodness of mixed berries, these bars are sure to become a household favorite. So, grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in a scrumptious, animal-friendly treat that everyone will love!