Delightful Blueberry Crumble Bars: A Year-Round Treat

Indulging in a sweet, fruity dessert doesn’t have to be reserved for summer. With the help of frozen blueberries, you can enjoy these delectable blueberry crumble bars any time of the year! This recipe features a buttery almond base topped with luscious Sujon blueberries and a crunchy crumble that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

The Magic of Frozen Blueberries

Frozen berries are a versatile ingredient that can enhance a variety of dishes. Whether tossed into yogurt, blended in smoothies, or used in baked goods, they are a staple in many households. For this particular recipe, the Sujon blueberries were chosen. Originating from British Columbia, Canada, these blueberries are renowned for their size, sweetness, and juiciness. Their vibrant flavor makes them the perfect addition to any dessert.

Nutritional Benefits of Blueberries

Blueberries are not just delicious; they are also packed with health benefits. The deep blue hue of these berries comes from anthocyanins, a group of plant compounds that act as powerful antioxidants. These compounds help protect the body from oxidative stress caused by free radicals. Additionally, blueberries are a good source of fiber and vitamin C, making them a nutritious choice for any meal or snack.

Serving Suggestions

This blueberry crumble can be enjoyed on its own, but there are several ways to elevate your dessert experience. Serve it warm with a dollop of yogurt or a scoop of ice cream, and consider adding extra berries on the side for a refreshing touch. Whether it’s for a family gathering or a cozy night in, these bars are sure to be a hit!

Recipe for Blueberry Crumble Bars

Ingredients

For the Base and Crumble:

• 100g butter or margarine
• 3 tablespoons almond butter
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2/3 cup ground almonds
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup coconut sugar or brown sugar

For the Berry Layer:

• 2 cups Sujon blueberries
• 2 tablespoons flour
• Juice from 1/2 lemon
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds
• 1/4 cup sugar

For Topping:

• Icing sugar
• Sliced almonds

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (approximately 350 degrees Fahrenheit).
2. Prepare the Base: Cut the butter into small cubes. In a food processor, combine the butter, almond butter, and dry ingredients (ground almonds, all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, and sugar). Pulse the mixture until it comes together into a crumbly dough.
3. Bake the Base: Line a baking pan with parchment paper. Press half of the mixture into the bottom of the pan firmly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, then remove and set aside.
4. Cook the Berry Layer: While the base is baking, combine the Sujon blueberries, chia seeds, flour, and sugar in a small saucepan. Stir regularly over medium heat until the blueberries are thawed and the mixture is well combined.
5. Assemble the Bars: Spoon the blueberry mixture over the baked base in the pan. Crumble the remaining half of the base mixture on top of the blueberries.
6. Final Bake: Return the assembled bars to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
7. Cool and Serve: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing them into squares. Dust the tops with icing sugar and sprinkle with sliced almonds for an added crunch.
8. Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh.

Enjoying the Crumble Bars

These blueberry crumble bars are perfect for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a brunch, looking for a dessert to enjoy with coffee, or simply craving something sweet, these bars fit the bill. Their delightful combination of flavors and textures—sweet blueberries, crunchy topping, and a buttery base—makes them a standout treat.

Additionally, these bars can be easily customized. Consider adding nuts or seeds to the crumble for extra texture, or swap the blueberries for other berries like raspberries or blackberries based on your preference or what you have on hand. The basic base recipe remains the same, allowing for delicious variations.

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Conclusion

Incorporating frozen blueberries into your baking repertoire opens up a world of delicious possibilities. These blueberry crumble bars not only taste amazing but also provide a nutritious treat that you can feel good about enjoying. The simplicity of the recipe, combined with the impressive final product, makes it a must-try for any dessert lover. So gather your ingredients and get ready to create a delightful dessert that your taste buds will thank you for!