Strawberry Crumble Bars are a delightful treat that brings together the sweet taste of fresh strawberries and a crunchy topping. These bars are easy to make and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a picnic, a dessert for dinner, or just a sweet snack at home. With a soft crust and a crumbly top, they are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!

Why Make This Recipe

There are many reasons to make Strawberry Crumble Bars. First, they use fresh strawberries, which means you get a burst of flavor in every bite. Second, this recipe is straightforward, making it great for both beginner and experienced bakers. Finally, they are easy to share and serve, making them ideal for gatherings or family treats!

How to Make Strawberry Crumble Bars

Making Strawberry Crumble Bars is simple and fun! You will need some basic ingredients and just a few steps to create this delicious dessert.

Ingredients:

1 pound fresh strawberries, diced
2 teaspoons cornstarch
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with foil or parchment paper and spray with cooking spray.
In a large bowl, combine 1/2 cup sugar, 1 1/2 cups flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until well combined. Add the egg and vanilla extract, and mix well.
Cut the cold butter into the flour mixture until it looks crumbly.
Pack half of the crumble mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
In a medium bowl, combine diced strawberries, 1/3 cup sugar, and cornstarch. Mix until strawberries are coated.
Spread the strawberry filling over the packed crust and sprinkle the reserved crumble mixture on top.
Bake for 35-40 minutes, until the top is golden brown.
Allow to cool completely in the pan, then cut into squares.

How to Serve Strawberry Crumble Bars

Strawberry Crumble Bars can be served as is, or you can add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an extra treat. They are also delicious with a cup of tea or coffee. You can serve them warm or chilled, depending on your preference!

How to Store Strawberry Crumble Bars

To store Strawberry Crumble Bars, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for about a week. You can also freeze the bars for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.

Tips to Make Strawberry Crumble Bars

Use ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
Don’t skip letting the bars cool completely before cutting; this helps them hold their shape.
If you like, you can add a sprinkle of oats to the crumble mix for added texture.

Variation

You can easily customize this recipe by adding different fruits like blueberries or raspberries. You can also mix in some nuts for extra crunch in the crumble topping.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture in the bars.

2. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use a vegan butter substitute.

3. How can I make the bars more sweet?
If you prefer sweeter bars, add more sugar to the strawberry filling or sprinkle some powdered sugar on top after baking.