As I stand amidst the spices and the hum of the oven, a playful thought takes root—a craving for something sweet yet soulful, easy to grab yet impossible to forget. It’s Gobble here, from the bustling heart of Food and Meal‘s kitchen, where today I’m excited to introduce you to the rustic charm of Blueberry Crumb Bars.
There’s a quiet joy that comes with baking, particularly when blueberries are involved. These tiny, indigo orbs, each a jewel in its own right, hold within their skins the fleeting magic of summer. As their season peaks and their abundance spills into our markets and our homes, I am moved to celebrate them in a way that is befitting—the ever-so-delightful Blueberry Crumb Bar.
What draws me to bake this treat is akin to the pull of a serene lake on a clear day—you can’t help but succumb to its tranquil beckoning. The allure of these crumbly treats lies not merely in their buttery base or the tart-sweet fruit nestled within, but in the nostalgia they evoke—with every bite, it feels like returning to a cherished place within the memory, where time slows and flavors deepen.
Creating these bars is my ode to simplicity. The process, free of complexity, invites bakers of all levels to fold their love into each layer. From the light press of the crust to the final scattering of crumble topping, we are reminded that beauty often lies in the unadorned, the uncomplicated, the pure joy of blueberries bursting with flavor.
Blueberry Crumb Bars Recipes
Low Potassium Blueberry Crumb Bars
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 cup white sugar
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup shortening
- 1 egg
- ¼ teaspoon salt optional
- 1 pinch ground cinnamon optional
- 4 cups fresh blueberries
- ½ cup white sugar
- 3 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Grease a 9x13 inch pan.
- In a medium bowl, stir together 1 cup sugar, 3 cups flour, and baking powder.
- Mix in salt and cinnamon, if desired. Use a fork or pastry cutter to blend in the shortening and egg. Dough will be crumbly.
- Pat half of dough into the prepared pan.
- In another bowl, stir together the sugar and cornstarch. Gently mix in the blueberries. Sprinkle the blueberry mixture evenly over the crust. Crumble remaining dough over the berry layer.
- Bake in preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until top is slightly brown. Cool completely before cutting into squares
Video
Notes
Nutrition
© Food And Meal
This website provides approximate nutrition information for convenience and as a courtesy only. Nutrition data is gathered primarily from the Spoonacular Database, whenever available, or otherwise other online calculators.
Alternative Method: Baking in the Oven
To create delicious Blueberry Crumb Bars, start by preparing the blueberry filling. In a saucepan over low heat, combine blueberries and ¼ cup of granulated sugar. Stir occasionally and cook for 5-10 minutes until the blueberries break down, and the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and set aside to cool. For the crumb mixture, mix ¾ cup of sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Add an egg and vanilla extract, then cut in softened butter until crumbly. Grease an ovenproof pan (about 8×8 inches) with cooking spray or butter. Press half of the crumb mixture evenly into the pan for the crust. Spread the blueberry filling over the crust and sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture on top. Cover the pan and cook on low heat for 20-25 minutes until the bottom is golden and the blueberry filling bubbles. Optionally, brown the top under a broiler for 1-2 minutes. Allow the bars to cool before cutting them into squares. Serve and enjoy these delightful Blueberry Crumb Bars!
Tips for making Blueberry Crumb Bars
Serving Suggestions
A tall glass of Almond Milk or Soy Milk offers a nutty or beany contrast to the fruit’s natural zest. Their creaminess soothes the palate, making every bite of the crumb bar feel like a brand new treat.
For those who favor something even lighter, Rice Milk presents itself as a subtle, slightly sweet option that supports the delicacy of the bars without overwhelming their delightful taste.
To add an Eastern twist, why not pair our Western dessert with some Sweet Mochi? The chewy texture and light sweetness create a playful textural experience next to the crumbly bars.
Should you desire a pairing that leans towards sophistication, serving these delightful bars with a cup of Irish Coffee could turn a simple snack into a decadent affair. The rich coffee and hints of whiskey are sure to elevate the experience, providing a mature juxtaposition against the humble sweetness of the blueberry confectionery.
Alternatively, a crisp Dragon Roll or a selection of Sushi Ginger might complement the fruitiness of the bars with a touch of palate-cleansing zing and variety from a different culinary world.
Each of these serving suggestions from our list is chosen not only to complement the nuanced flavors of Blueberry Crumb Bars but also to create a multisensory experience, where textures and tastes come together in a bouquet of delight. Enjoy the lushness of blueberries with the added pleasure of these thoughtful pairings.
Cooking Tips
Firstly, when selecting your blueberries, remember that the quality of the fruit directly defines the soul of these crumb bars. Opt for fresh, plump, and beautifully ripe blueberries – they should be aromatic and practically whisper tales of sunny fields.
Gentleness is your best friend during the mixing process. Treat the crumb mixture like a tender melody; overworking it can lead to a dough that’s too dense, stealing away that delightful lightness that makes your heart flutter with each crumbly bite.
Now, let’s talk about layering – it’s where the magic truly happens. Spread the bottom layer with a loving hand, pressing lightly, leaving plenty of room for those juicy blueberries to lay comfortably between the layers, like little sapphire pillows set against the golden crust.
Remember, patience is virtue in baking! Allowing the bars to cool completely grants them the composure they need to set properly, ensuring that your anticipation is rewarded with clean, beautiful slices rather than a rush of crumbs and berries tumbling with wild abandon.
Lastly, don’t shy away from adding a personal touch – a sprinkle of lemon zest atop the blueberry layer can work wonders, adding a note of brightness that elevates the flavors and tickles the palate, sparking joy with every morsel.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Blueberry Crumb Bars
- Can I use frozen blueberries for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Be sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the recipe.
- How should I store leftovers? Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
- Can I make these bars with other fruits? Absolutely! You can substitute blueberries with other fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or a combination to create unique flavor variations.
- Can I use gluten-free flour in this recipe? Yes, you can use gluten-free flour as a substitute without affecting the overall taste and texture.
- Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe? You can reduce the sugar to your taste, but keep in mind that it might affect the sweetness and texture of the bars.
Conclusion
As the last golden crumbs settle and the final blueberry’s tang dances away on our tongues, we come to the end of our culinary voyage with Food and Meal. These Blueberry Crumb Bars, each a humble mosaic of sweet fruit and buttery pastry, have told their story—a narrative spun from simplicity, care, and the joy found in baking’s pauses and flourishes.
In the glow of my kitchen at foodandmeal.com, I’ve shared with you not just a recipe, but the essence of a summer moment captured within these delectable layers. We’ve mixed, we’ve baked, and most importantly, we’ve savored. With each crumb and berry, we found a connection to the earth, to the seasons, and perhaps, to each other.
I hope that you’ll carry this recipe close to your heart, as I do, knowing that with a few simple ingredients and a sprinkle of passion, you can create something that resonates with warmth and tenderness. Whether shared among friends, enjoyed in a quiet minute of reflection, or presented as a gift of goodwill, these Blueberry Crumb Bars embody the spirit of Food and Meal—a testament to the belief that the best treats are those made with love and a dash of whimsy.
So, dear reader, may your kitchen be filled with the sweet aroma of blueberries and your tables with laughter and delight. Until next time, keep the oven warm and your hearts open. Thank you for allowing me to guide you through this experience. Remember, the recipe, the journey, and more gastronomic adventures await at Food and Meal (foodandmeal.com), your companion in the magical world of cooking.
Hi! I’m Paula from the Philippines, the passionate blogger and skilled photographer behind Gobble the Cook. I also spearhead the media photography for Food And Meal in Vietnam.