Strawberry Crumb Bars
There’s nothing quite like biting into a fresh, homemade strawberry crumb bar — it’s like capturing the essence of a perfect summer day. These delicious bars are not only easy to make but also filled with sweet, tangy strawberries that practically melt in your mouth. If you’re searching for the ultimate strawberry crumb bar recipe, look no further!
When I was a child, my grandmother used to make these delightful treats every Sunday. Her kitchen was filled with the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked strawberries and buttery crumbs. I remember eagerly waiting by the oven door just to get a sneak peek. Those treasured memories bring a sentimental value to this recipe, making it a staple in our family gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This strawberry crumb bar recipe is perfect for several reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring only a handful of ingredients you likely have at home. These bars are a fantastic way to use up an abundance of fresh strawberries. Additionally, the crumbly buttery crust and streusel topping provide the perfect texture contrast to the juicy strawberry filling. Lastly, this recipe can be easily adapted for vegan or gluten-free diets without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients Notes
The beauty of these strawberry crumb bars lies in their simplicity. The main ingredients include fresh strawberries, flour, sugar, and butter. If fresh strawberries aren’t available, you can use frozen ones, but make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly. For a healthier version, substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. You can also reduce sugar as per taste preference. Butter can be substituted with a vegan alternative like coconut oil for a plant-based version.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9 inch baking dish. This ensures that your bars don’t stick to the dish and makes for easy cleanup.
Step 2
In a medium bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the butter using a fork or pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Reserve 1 cup for the topping.
Step 3
Press the remaining crumb mixture into the prepared baking dish, forming an even crust layer. This will act as the base of your crumb bars.
Step 4
In another bowl, gently toss together the strawberries, cornstarch, sugar, and lemon juice. Spread this mixture evenly over the crust. Ensure the strawberries are well distributed for even baking.
Step 5
Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture over the top of the strawberries. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Storage Options
These strawberry crumb bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you plan on freezing them, wrap the bars individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in a preheated oven for a few minutes.
Variations & Substitutions
For a zesty twist, add some orange zest to the strawberry filling. If you’re catering to a gluten-free audience, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend. Add chopped nuts like almonds or pecans to the topping for extra crunch and flavor variation. You could even try adding a layer of cream cheese beneath the strawberries for a richer taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful strawberry crumb bars warm or at room temperature, paired beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They are perfect for brunch parties, picnics, or as a sweet treat with your afternoon coffee or tea. These bars also make a delightful dessert for family gatherings or simply as a nostalgic midnight snack.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other fruits in this recipe? Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile. You can substitute strawberries with any other berry or a combination of berries like raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries. Just adjust the amount of sugar based on the fruit’s sweetness.
Do I have to use cornstarch? Cornstarch is used to thicken the filling, ensuring it isn’t too runny. If you don’t have cornstarch on hand, you can use an equal amount of all-purpose flour or arrowroot powder as a substitute. Just be aware that these may alter the texture slightly.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan? Yes, you can make these bars vegan by using a plant-based butter alternative or coconut oil in place of regular butter. Ensure that any sugar used is certified vegan as well. This modification will still yield delicious, crumbly bars.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Strawberry Crumb Bars
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour sifted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup cold butter diced
- 2 cups fresh strawberries hulled and diced
- 0.5 cup brown sugar packed
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and granulated sugar. Cut in butter until crumbly.
- Press half of the crumb mixture into the prepared baking pan.
- In another bowl, mix diced strawberries with brown sugar. Spread over the crumb base.
- Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the strawberry layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
- Cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
