Irresistible & Healthy Blueberry Crumble Bars: Your Go-To Gluten-Free & Vegan Treat

Imagine a dessert that’s both decadently delicious and genuinely good for you. These Blueberry Crumble Bars are exactly that! Featuring a perfectly soft and chewy bottom layer, a luscious, gooey, and jammy blueberry center, and a gloriously crispy, golden crumble topping, they are a true delight. What makes them even better? They’re crafted with wholesome, plant-based ingredients, making them naturally gluten-free and vegan. Whether you’re seeking a satisfying breakfast bar, a healthy on-the-go snack, or a crowd-pleasing dessert, these blueberry crumb bars fit the bill for any time of day!

This post has been updated from the original version published on June 26, 2018, to bring you even more tips, improved details, and a refined recipe for these amazing bars!

This easy-to-follow recipe for blueberry bars isn’t just a treat for your taste buds; it’s a powerhouse of nutrition. Loaded with wholesome, gluten-free whole grains and bursting with nutrient-rich blueberries, it’s a healthy recipe you can proudly bring to every picnic, potluck, and family gathering. With their irresistibly jammy center, delightfully crispy topping, and a sturdy, chewy base, these bars are so good, you’ll be reaching for a second one before you know it!

The Incredible Health Benefits of Blueberries

Blueberries are more than just a delicious fruit; they are tiny powerhouses of nutrition, often hailed as a “superfood.” Incorporating them into your diet, especially in delightful forms like these crumble bars, offers a multitude of health advantages.

• Rich in Vitamins A and C: These essential vitamins contribute to a younger-looking and brighter complexion, supporting skin health from within.
• Packed with Antioxidants: Blueberries are incredibly rich in antioxidants, especially anthocyanins, which protect your body’s cells from damage caused by free radicals and help combat disease.
• High in Fiber: With a significant amount of dietary fiber, blueberries are excellent for digestive health, promoting regularity and a healthy gut microbiome.
• Fight Inflammation: The compounds found in blueberries possess powerful anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce inflammation throughout the body.
• Promote Heart Health: Regular consumption of blueberries has been linked to improved cardiovascular health, helping to lower blood pressure and improve cholesterol levels.
• May Enhance Memory and Cognition: Studies suggest that the antioxidants in blueberries can improve brain function, potentially enhancing memory and cognitive performance.
• Low in Calories, High in Nutrients: Being low in calories yet dense in nutrients and fiber, blueberries are an excellent choice for those managing their weight, providing satiety without excess calories.

Why You Will Absolutely Love These Blueberry Crumble Bars

There are countless reasons to fall in love with these healthy blueberry crumble bars. From their delightful taste to their practical benefits, they’re designed to make your life a little sweeter and a lot healthier.

• Too Many Blueberries? No Problem! We’ve all been there – a trip to the farmers market resulting in an abundance of beautiful, ripe blueberries. This recipe is the perfect solution to use them up deliciously!
• Impress with Healthy & Delicious Food: If your passion is creating beautiful, incredible-tasting food that just happens to be healthy too, then these bars are your new go-to. They are guaranteed to impress without compromising on wellness.
• Perfect for Make-Ahead & Freezing: Planning is key! These bars freeze exceptionally well, allowing you to prepare them in advance and simply pull them out whenever a craving strikes or unexpected guests arrive.
• The Ideal Potluck or BBQ Dessert: Asked to bring a dessert to a get-together? These blueberry crumble bars are universally loved, easy to transport, and a refreshing alternative to traditional heavy desserts.
• Unique & Tasty Breakfast for Guests: Hosting friends or family this weekend? Serve these warm with a dollop of plant-based yogurt or a side of fresh fruit for a breakfast that’s both memorable and wholesome.
• Wholesome, Plant-Based Ingredients: You’ll appreciate that these bars are made with ingredients you recognize and trust. Every component is plant-based and contributes to their delicious flavor and nutritional value.
• Kid-Friendly Snack Option: Kids are always on the lookout for tasty snacks. These bars offer a healthy and satisfying option that both parents and children will approve of, making snack time a breeze.
• Effortlessly Easy & Universally Loved: Let’s be honest, we all want to make food that people genuinely enjoy. This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, consistently delivers fantastic results, and is always a huge hit with everyone who tries it!

Key Ingredients and Smart Substitutions

Crafting these delicious blueberry crumble bars is simple with a few key ingredients. Many of these are pantry staples, and for those with dietary restrictions or specific preferences, we’ve included some helpful substitutions.

• BLUEBERRIES: The star of the show! High in fiber and low in calories – they’re a nutritional superstar. You can easily substitute with any other berries you have on hand, like raspberries or mixed berries, or even pitted cherries. Chopped stone fruits such as nectarines, peaches, or plums also work wonderfully, adding a delightful juiciness. No fresh blueberries? No worries! Frozen berries are a fantastic year-round option; just thaw them slightly before use.
• DATES: These provide the perfect natural sweetness and caramel-like flavor for the jammy filling, bringing fiber and a delightful texture without any refined sugar. Opt for dates with pits still in, as they tend to be more moist and flavorful. Removing the pit is a quick and easy step before use.
• CHIA SEEDS: A true superfood, chia seeds are vital for this recipe. They help the blueberry jam thicken and gel beautifully without the need for cooking or cornstarch. Beyond their gelling properties, they are loaded with Omega-3 fatty acids, protein, fiber, and various essential minerals.
• LEMON JUICE: A splash of fresh lemon juice adds a crucial bright “zing” to the blueberry filling, balancing the sweetness of the dates and enhancing the fruit’s natural flavor.
• ROLLED OATS: These fiber-rich whole grains form the hearty base and crumble topping. They are naturally gluten-free, but always ensure you choose certified gluten-free oats if you have a sensitivity. I prefer using sprouted oats for their easier digestibility and enhanced bioavailability of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Brands like Thrive Market Organic Oats or One Degree Organic Sprouted Oats are excellent choices. Always check that your chosen brand is non-GMO and glyphosate-free for the healthiest option.
• ALMOND FLOUR: For the best texture in your crumble, make sure to use super fine, blanched almond flour. This provides a light, tender crumb compared to almond meal, which can be coarser. For a delicious nut-free alternative, coconut flour can be substituted using the same measurement – it creates a slightly different but equally delightful texture.
• GROUND FLAX SEEDS: This nutritional powerhouse is key for binding the dough together, allowing us to create a wonderful vegan treat without any animal products. Ground flax seeds are also incredibly rich in protein, fiber, and healthy Omega-3 fats. If you don’t have ground flax, ground chia seeds make a perfect substitute.
• APPLESAUCE: Unsweetened applesauce acts as a fantastic oil-free and vegan binder and moisturizer for the dough. I find individual servings convenient for baking, but if using a large jar, measure just under ½ cup. If you’re out of applesauce, simply blend a fresh apple or pear with a tiny bit of water until smooth to create your own homemade version. Look for brands with no added sugar.
• MAPLE SYRUP: Our natural sweetener for the crumble dough. I personally find ⅓ cup provides ample sweetness, but taste preferences vary! If you prefer a sweeter bar, feel free to increase it to ½ cup. Adjust to your audience and your own sweet tooth!
• ORANGE JUICE: This adds natural sweetness and much-needed moisture to the dough, contributing to its soft and chewy texture. If orange juice isn’t available, you can substitute with water and add 1 additional Tablespoon of maple syrup to maintain the sweetness balance.
• VANILLA EXTRACT: A touch of vanilla extract enhances all the flavors in the bars. If you’re not a fan or simply don’t have it, you can easily omit it without needing a substitution.
• CINNAMON: Beyond its warm, inviting aroma and flavor, cinnamon boasts impressive anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal properties. It’s also rich in antioxidants and offers anti-inflammatory benefits, all while giving the illusion of added sweetness.
• BAKING POWDER: This leavening agent reacts with the applesauce and orange juice to help the dough rise slightly and achieve a tender, airy texture in the base and topping.

This healthy blueberry recipe is wonderfully easy to prepare, but you’ll have one key decision to make: do you prefer a thicker, more substantial bar, or a thinner, crispier one? For deliciously thick bars, opt for an 8×8 inch square baking pan. If you lean towards a thinner, more delicate treat, a 9×13 inch rectangular baking dish will be your best bet. Regardless of your choice, the preparation steps remain virtually identical; it’s simply a matter of pan size, which will only slightly alter the baking time. Both options yield fantastic results!

How to Make Perfect Blueberry Crumble Bars: Step-by-Step Guide

Creating these delightful blueberry crumble bars is a straightforward process. Follow these detailed steps to achieve a perfectly balanced treat with a chewy base, a jammy filling, and a crispy topping.

Step 1: Prepare the Luscious Blueberry Jam Filling

Your first step is to create the heart of these bars: the sweet and tangy blueberry filling. This “jam” doesn’t require any cooking, making the process even simpler.

• Begin by adding two cups of your fresh (or slightly thawed frozen) blueberries, the bright lemon juice, and the pitted dates to the bowl of your food processor.
• Process these ingredients until they form a smooth, vibrant puree. Be sure to stop and scrape down the sides of the bowl a few times to ensure everything is thoroughly combined and there are no large date chunks remaining.

Step 2: Thicken the Jam with Chia Seeds

To achieve that perfect gooey, jammy consistency, we’ll incorporate the magical chia seeds.

• Transfer your blueberry puree into a small bowl.
• Stir in the chia seeds thoroughly. The chia seeds will absorb the liquid and expand, creating a naturally thick and gel-like texture for your filling as it rests.

Set this bowl aside and allow the jam to gel for at least 10-15 minutes while you move on to preparing the dough for the base and topping. This resting time is crucial for the chia seeds to work their magic.

Step 3: Craft the Wholesome Crumble Dough

The versatile dough serves as both the chewy base and the crispy crumble topping for these bars.

• Rinse out your food processor bowl, then add the rolled oats, almond flour, ground flax seeds, baking powder, cinnamon, and sea salt. Pulse these dry ingredients a few times to ensure they are well combined.
• Next, add the wet ingredients: unsweetened applesauce, orange juice, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
• Process until the mixture is thoroughly combined and forms a thick, somewhat pasty dough. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides of the bowl several times to ensure all the oats and other ingredients are fully incorporated. The consistency should be uniform and sticky.

Step 4: Assembling Your Blueberry Crumble Bars

Now you are ready to bring all the delicious components together! This assembly process is simple and satisfying. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your chosen baking pan (8×8 inch square or 9×13 inch rectangle) with unbleached parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal later.

Here’s what the assembly process looks like, using a square pan as an example, and incorporating an optional chopped nectarine for extra moisture and flavor:

And here’s a little peek into the same assembly process when using a rectangular pan. Notice how the ingredients are “stretched” to create a thinner, yet equally delightful, bar.

The process is identical whether you opt for a square or rectangle pan. Simply hold aside 1 to 1½ cups of the crumble dough. Press the majority of the dough into the bottom of your parchment-lined baking dish. Use an offset spatula or your fingers to evenly spread the dough, ensuring it reaches all corners for a uniform base. Next, carefully spread the gelled blueberry jam over this base. Evenly sprinkle the remaining fresh berries (and any optional chopped fruit) over the jam. Finally, take the reserved crumble dough and distribute it over the top, creating that classic crumble texture.

Step 5: Baking to Golden Perfection

Baking times will vary slightly depending on your chosen pan size, as the thickness of the bars affects how quickly they cook through.

• If you are using a smaller, square pan (8×8 inches) for thicker bars, bake them for approximately 40 minutes in your preheated 350°F (175°C) oven.
• For thinner bars baked in a larger, rectangular pan (9×13 inches), the cooking time will be shorter, around 30 minutes.

In both cases, the crumble bars are done when the top is lightly golden brown and set, and the filling appears bubbly at the edges. A delightful aroma will also fill your kitchen!

Step 6: Cool Completely for Clean Slices

Patience is a virtue, especially when it comes to cutting these bars! While it’s tempting to dive in immediately, allowing the bars to cool completely is crucial for achieving clean, neat slices and preventing a gooey mess.

I highly recommend placing the entire baking dish into the refrigerator for a few hours, or even overnight, after it has cooled to room temperature. This chilling process allows the chia jam to fully set and the crumble to firm up, making the cutting task significantly easier and resulting in beautifully defined layers.

Storage, Freezing, and Serving Suggestions

Storing Your Blueberry Crumble Bars

Once completely cooled, these bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. For longer freshness, especially in warmer climates, refrigerate them for up to a week. The flavors often deepen and the texture improves slightly after a day in the fridge.

Freezing for Future Enjoyment

These bars are excellent for meal prep and future enjoyment! To freeze, ensure the bars are completely cool. It’s best to cut them into individual pieces before freezing. Place the individual bars on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for about 1-2 hours, or until solid. This prevents them from sticking together. Once solid, transfer the frozen bars to an airtight freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper if needed. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

To enjoy a frozen bar, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about 30-60 minutes, or warm it gently in the microwave for a few seconds if you prefer it warm.

Delicious Serving Ideas

These versatile bars are wonderful on their own, but here are a few ideas to elevate your serving experience:

• For Breakfast: Serve with a scoop of plant-based yogurt (vanilla or plain), a sprinkle of granola, or a side of fresh fruit for a wholesome and satisfying start to your day.
• As a Dessert: Warm slightly and serve with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream or a dollop of coconut whipped cream for a truly indulgent treat.
• Grab-and-Go Snack: Their sturdy nature makes them perfect for packing in lunchboxes or taking on hikes for a nutritious energy boost.
• With Coffee or Tea: Enjoy a bar with your morning coffee or afternoon tea for a delightful break.

Debra’s Pro Tips for Success

• Taming Sticky Dough: The dough for these bars can be quite sticky. To make spreading it into the pan much easier, simply wet your hands or your offset spatula with a little water before pressing the dough down.
• The Secret to Clean Cuts: For perfectly neat and less gooey slices, allow the bars to cool completely – ideally for a few hours in the refrigerator, or even overnight. Chilling helps the jam set and the crumb firm up beautifully.
• Orange Juice Substitution: No orange juice on hand? No problem! You can substitute it with the same amount of water, but add 1 additional Tablespoon of maple syrup to maintain the desired level of sweetness and moisture in the dough.
• Smart Freezing Strategy: To maximize convenience, cut your cooled bars into individual serving pieces before freezing. This way, you can easily grab just one or two when a craving hits, leaving the rest perfectly stored for later.
• Patriotic Twist: For a festive touch perfect for holidays like the 4th of July, Memorial Day, Labor Day, or Veteran’s Day, sprinkle a combination of fresh blueberries and raspberries onto the jam layer before adding the top crumble. The red, white, and blue (with the oats as ‘white’) will be stunning!
• Seasonal Batch Baking: When blueberries are at their peak season and most affordable, consider making a double or even triple batch of these bars. Freeze them in individual portions for a taste of summer any time of year.
• Year-Round Enjoyment: Don’t limit these to summer! Frozen berries work just as beautifully in this recipe, allowing you to enjoy these wholesome crumble bars no matter the season.
• Serve for Breakfast and Shine: Offer these for breakfast, and prepare to bask in the glory! Everyone will appreciate a delicious and healthy option, and you can give yourself a pat on the back for creating something so wonderful.

Did you know commenting and rating recipes is one of the best ways to support your favorite food bloggers? If you made this healthy and delicious recipe, please consider leaving a five-star rating below and a comment sharing your experience. We love hearing from you! Also, please share your photos on Instagram by tagging me @dkhealthcoach and using the hashtag #debraklein so I can see your wonderful creations!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I make these blueberry crumble bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars are perfect for meal prepping. You can bake them a day or two in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator. They also freeze exceptionally well for longer storage, as detailed in the “Freezing for Future Enjoyment” section above.

Q2: What if I don’t have a food processor?

While a food processor makes the job easiest and quickest, you can still make these bars! For the jam filling, you can mash the blueberries and dates very thoroughly with a fork or potato masher, then stir in the lemon juice and chia seeds. For the crumble dough, you can finely chop the oats (if not already fine) and then mix all ingredients vigorously by hand in a large bowl. The texture might be slightly different, but the flavor will still be amazing.

Q3: Are these bars truly gluten-free and vegan?

Yes, this recipe is designed to be both gluten-free and vegan! We use certified gluten-free rolled oats and almond flour, and all other ingredients are plant-based, with no animal products whatsoever. Always double-check your ingredient labels (especially for oats and applesauce) to ensure they are certified gluten-free and free from any hidden animal products.

Q4: How can I tell when the bars are perfectly baked?

The bars are ready when the top crumble is lightly golden brown and feels set to the touch. You might also see the blueberry filling gently bubbling around the edges of the pan. The exact baking time can vary slightly depending on your oven and chosen pan size, so these visual cues are key.

Q5: Can I reduce the amount of maple syrup?

Yes, you can! The recipe calls for ⅓ cup of maple syrup, which I find perfectly sweet. If you prefer a less sweet treat, you can try reducing it by 1-2 tablespoons. However, keep in mind that maple syrup also contributes to the moisture and binding of the dough, so significant reductions might slightly alter the texture. The dates in the filling also provide natural sweetness, balancing the overall flavor.

Conclusion: Your New Favorite Wholesome Treat!

These Healthy Blueberry Crumble Bars are a testament to the fact that wholesome eating doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. With their delightful layers of soft, chewy base, bursting with sweet and tangy blueberry jam, and a perfectly crisp topping, they are a treat that truly delivers on all fronts. Easy to make, packed with nutrients, and incredibly versatile, they are destined to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, as a healthy snack, or a guilt-free dessert, these vegan and gluten-free bars are a delicious way to nourish your body and delight your taste buds. Go ahead, bake a batch today and experience the magic yourself!

📖 Recipe

Blueberry Crumble Bars

Author: Debra Klein

Healthy Blueberry Crumble Bars are easy to make with wholesome ingredients. Soft and chewy bottom, gooey, jammy center and a crispy crumble topping…perfect any time of day!

5 from 36 votes

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Breakfast & Brunch

Cuisine American

Servings 24 bars

Calories 147 kcal

Equipment

• Parchment Baking Paper
• 3 Quart Glass Oblong Baking Dish
• 8 x 8 Inch Square Baking Pan
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Offset spatula
• Food Processor

Ingredients

  

• ▢ 3 ½ cups old fashioned oats
• ▢ 2 ½ cups super fine almond meal*
• ▢ 2 Tablespoons ground flax
• ▢ 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ▢ 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• ▢ ½ teaspoon sea salt
• ▢ ½ cup unsweetened apple sauce*
• ▢ ½ cup orange juice
• ▢ ⅓ cup maple syrup
• ▢ 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Filling:

• ▢ 3 cups blueberries divided
• ▢ 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
• ▢ 4 dates
• ▢ 3 Tablespoons chia seeds
• ▢ Optional: 1 nectarine chopped

Instructions

 

• Preheat oven to 350 and line 9 x 9* or 9 x 13 baking pan with unbleached parchment.
• Set aside 1 cup blueberries. Combine remaining 2 cups blueberries, lemon juice, pitted dates in food processor. Scrape down sides, process again. Transfer to small bowl and mix in chia seeds. Let sit to gel while preparing dough.
• Rinse out the bowl of the processor and then add in oats, almond meal, flax, baking powder, cinnamon and sea salt. Pulse to combine. Then add in orange juice , apple sauce, maple syrup and vanilla extract. Process. Scrape down sides and process again until well combined and smooth. Batter will be pasty.
• Set aside 1 ½ cups of dough and add the remaining dough into the prepared baking pan. It will be pasty and sticky. Use an offset spatula or your fingers to smooth dough into corners, pressing down for a firm fit. Wet the spatula or your hands to make this process easier.
• Spread blueberry “jam” evenly over dough. Sprinkle blueberries over jam and chopped nectarines, if using.
• Scoop the remaining dough out onto blueberry mixture. It’s OK if it’s not totally covered, just be sure it’s evenly spread over the surface.
• For square pan, bake for 40 minutes, rectangle pan bake for 30 minutes. Crumble is done when top is lightly browned and set.
• Remove from oven and allow to cool in pan before cutting into squares or bars.

Video

Notes

NUT ALLERGIES: Substitute coconut flour for the almond flour. I am allergic to coconut, so I have not personally tried it, but a good friend did and said it came out great, using the same 2 ½ cups.

APPLE SAUCE: The individual containers of applesauce measure out at 3.9 oz. If using a large jar, measure out just under ½ cup.

BAKING PAN: For a thicker crumble bar, use the square baking pan. If you prefer a thinner bar, the 9 x 13 will be a better size pan to use. See the post above for photos of each.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 147kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 5gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gSodium: 87mgFiber: 4gSugar: 7g

Note

The nutrition calculations were done using online tools. To obtain the most accurate representation of the nutritional information in any given recipe, you should calculate the nutritional information with the actual ingredients you used. You are ultimately responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information is accurate, complete and useful.

Did you make this recipe? Please leave a review below, then snap a picture and tag me @dkhealthcoach or use hashtag #dkhealtcoach on Instagram so I can see it!!