Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these strawberry crumb bars! They’re like a little slice of sunshine, bursting with juicy strawberries and wrapped in a crumbly, melt-in-your-mouth crust. What I absolutely love about this recipe is that it’s both vegan and gluten-free, making it perfect for everyone, whether you’re avoiding animal products or just looking for a tasty treat that fits your dietary needs. I remember the first time I made these for a picnic; everyone was raving about them, and I couldn’t believe how easy they were to whip up! Trust me, once you taste that sweet strawberry filling paired with the crunchy topping, you’ll want to make these again and again. They’re not just delicious—they’re a total crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients for Strawberry Crumb Bars Vegan Gluten Free
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these delightful strawberry crumb bars! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups gluten-free oats: Make sure to use certified gluten-free oats for the best results. These will form the base and crumb topping.
- 1 cup almond flour: This adds a lovely nutty flavor and helps bind everything together. You can also use other nut flours if you prefer!
- 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted: Coconut oil gives these bars a rich texture and a hint of tropical flavor. Just melt it until it’s liquid, and you’re good to go.
- 1/2 cup maple syrup: This natural sweetener not only adds sweetness but also moisture. You can substitute it with agave syrup if you’re looking for an alternative.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla makes everything taste better! It really enhances the flavors of the strawberries.
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, diced: The star of the show! Fresh, ripe strawberries are essential for that burst of flavor. If you’re in a pinch, frozen strawberries will work too—just thaw and drain excess liquid.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: This helps thicken the strawberry filling, giving it the perfect consistency.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: A little bit of acidity brightens the flavors of the strawberries and balances out the sweetness.
Make sure to measure each ingredient carefully so your bars turn out just right! Now that you have everything you need, let’s dive into the preparation.
How to Prepare Strawberry Crumb Bars Vegan Gluten Free
Now comes the fun part—preparing these scrumptious strawberry crumb bars! I promise, it’s a breeze and you’ll be savoring your creation in no time. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious treat ready to go!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your bars bake evenly and get that lovely golden color.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the gluten-free oats, almond flour, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Mix it all together until it’s well combined—don’t be afraid to get your hands in there! You want a crumbly texture that holds together when pressed.
- Next, take half of that mixture and press it firmly into a lined baking pan. This will be the base of your bars, so make sure it’s nice and even.
- In another bowl, toss together the diced strawberries, cornstarch, and lemon juice. This is where the magic happens! The cornstarch will help thicken the filling, making it perfectly gooey.
- Spread the strawberry mixture evenly over the crust in your pan. The vibrant red of the strawberries is so inviting, right?
- Now, take the remaining oat mixture and sprinkle it over the strawberries. This will create a delicious crumbly topping that adds texture!
- Pop the pan in your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly!
- Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool completely in the pan before slicing them into bars. Trust me, the wait will be worth it!
And there you have it—your very own vegan and gluten-free strawberry crumb bars! I can’t wait for you to try them!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can whip these up in no time! Perfect for busy days when you need a sweet treat.
- Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of sweet strawberries and nutty almond flour creates a mouthwatering flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.
- Healthy Indulgence: These bars are not only vegan and gluten-free, but they also pack a wholesome punch with oats and fresh fruit. Guilt-free snacking, anyone?
- Customizable: Feel free to switch up the fruit or add your favorite nuts and seeds! The base recipe is versatile enough to make it your own.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a gathering, going on a picnic, or just need a snack for yourself, these bars are a hit with everyone!
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch at the start of the week, and you’ll have a delicious snack ready to grab whenever hunger strikes.
Tips for Success
To ensure your strawberry crumb bars turn out perfectly every time, I’ve got some handy tips that I’ve learned along the way. Trust me, these little tricks can make a big difference!
- Don’t Skimp on the Strawberries: Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor! If they’re a bit overripe, that’s okay—just make sure they’re not too mushy. And if you want to mix it up, try using a combination of berries for an extra flavor kick!
- Press Firmly: When you’re pressing the oat mixture into the pan, make sure to press down firmly. This helps create a solid base that won’t crumble apart when you slice it!
- Let Them Cool: I know it’s tempting, but let the bars cool completely before cutting them. This helps the filling set up nicely and makes for cleaner, prettier bars.
- Use Parchment Paper: Lining your baking pan with parchment paper makes it so much easier to lift the bars out once they’re cool. Plus, it helps with cleanup—win-win!
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter treat, feel free to add a bit more maple syrup or even a sprinkle of coconut sugar on top before baking. Just be careful not to overdo it, as the strawberries are naturally sweet!
- Store Properly: Keep your bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, but if you want them to last longer, stick them in the fridge. They taste just as good cold, trust me!
Follow these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to mastering these delightful strawberry crumb bars. Happy baking!
Variations
One of the best things about these strawberry crumb bars is how easily you can make them your own! Here are some fun variations to try that’ll keep your taste buds excited:
- Berry Bliss: Swap out the strawberries for other berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries. Each one brings its own unique flavor and color to the bars!
- Peachy Keen: In the summer, try using fresh diced peaches instead of strawberries. The juicy sweetness is simply divine!
- Spiced Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the oat mixture for a warm, cozy flavor that pairs beautifully with the fruit.
- Nutty Delight: Mix in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the crumb topping for an added crunch and richness.
- Chocolate Chip: Stir in a handful of dairy-free chocolate chips into the filling or sprinkle them on top before baking for a delicious twist!
- Zesty Lemon: Add some lemon zest to the strawberry mixture for an extra zing that brightens up the flavors even more.
- Coconut Twist: Incorporate shredded coconut into the crumb mixture for a tropical vibe that’ll transport you to a sunny beach!
The possibilities are endless, so don’t hesitate to get creative! Each variation brings its own magic to these bars, making them a new treat every time you bake them. Enjoy experimenting!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To keep your strawberry crumb bars fresh and delicious, proper storage is key! Once the bars have cooled completely, you can store them in an airtight container. They’ll keep well at room temperature for about a week, but if you want them to last longer, pop them in the fridge. Trust me, they still taste amazing cold!
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare, but hey, it happens!), you can also freeze them for up to two months. Just wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap, or place them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy one, simply let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. No need to reheat—just grab it and go!
But if you prefer a warm treat, you can reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Just be careful not to overdo it, or they might get a bit too soft! Enjoy your delightful strawberry crumb bars whenever the craving hits!
Nutritional Information
These strawberry crumb bars are not only delicious but also a wholesome treat! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per bar, so you can enjoy them guilt-free:
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 5mg
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 3g
These bars are packed with wholesome ingredients like oats and fresh strawberries, making them a nutritious option for a snack or dessert. Enjoy every bite while knowing you’re treating your body right!
FAQ about Strawberry Crumb Bars Vegan Gluten Free
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen strawberries work just fine. Just be sure to thaw them first and drain any excess liquid so your filling doesn’t get too watery.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when they’re golden brown on top and firm to the touch. You can also insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes! These bars are perfect for making in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge, and they’ll be good for up to a week. They taste even better after a day or two!
What can I substitute for almond flour?
If you need a nut-free option, you can use sunflower seed flour or even oat flour. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture might vary a bit, but they’ll still be delicious!
Can I double the recipe?
For sure! Just make sure to use a larger baking pan if you double the ingredients. Keep an eye on the baking time, as it may take a bit longer to cook through.
For more delicious vegan recipes, check out our blog for inspiration!
Additionally, if you’re interested in the health benefits of strawberries, you can learn more here.
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Strawberry Crumb Bars Vegan Gluten Free: 7 Irresistible Tips
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Delicious vegan and gluten-free strawberry crumb bars.
Ingredients
- 2 cups gluten-free oats
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, diced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix oats, almond flour, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla.
- Press half of the mixture into a lined baking pan.
- In another bowl, combine strawberries, cornstarch, and lemon juice.
- Spread the strawberry mixture over the crust in the pan.
- Top with the remaining oat mixture.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let cool before slicing into bars.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container.
- Best enjoyed within a week.
- Substitute strawberries with other berries if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: strawberry crumb bars, vegan dessert, gluten-free bars