Blueberry Crumb Bars
Sweet and buttery blueberry crumb bars feature a crispy shortbread crust filled with vibrant blueberry filling, perfect for dessert gatherings or afternoon treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- In a large bowl with a mixer at medium speed, beat butter, sugar, and vanilla until fluffy.
- Reduce speed to low, beat in flour just until combined.
- With fingers, press dough firmly onto the bottom of a 15 x 10 1/2 inch jelly roll pan to form the crust.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
- Cool slightly on a wire rack.
- While the crust bakes, prepare the blueberry filling.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter touch, consider adding a bit of lemon zest to the blueberry filling. If you don't have confectioners' sugar, you can blend granulated sugar in a food processor until fine. To enhance texture, try incorporating oats into the crumb topping. For a gluten-free version, substitute regular flour with almond or coconut flour. Always allow the bars to cool completely before cutting for cleaner slices.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these blueberry crumb bars warm or at room temperature for a delightful dessert. They pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You can also enjoy them alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon snack. For a complete meal, consider serving them after a light salad or alongside a serving of Lazy Daisies.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover blueberry crumb bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them warm, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or use a microwave for 15-20 seconds until just warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Blueberry Crumb Bars contains roughly 25 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen blueberries can be used in this recipe. Just ensure they are thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture in the filling. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly since frozen berries may release more juice during cooking.
How do I know when the crust is done?
The crust is done when it turns a light golden brown color. You can also check by gently pressing the edges; they should feel firm and not doughy. If the crust looks too pale, give it a couple more minutes in the oven.
Can I add nuts to the crumb topping?
Absolutely! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can add a lovely crunch to the crumb topping. Simply mix in about 1/2 cup of your preferred nuts along with the flour and butter for added flavor and texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).