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Blackberry Crumble Bars

Deliciously satisfying blackberry crumble bars featuring juicy blackberries beneath a crispy, buttery crumble topping. Perfect for any occasion!
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 9 pieces
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Vegan
Calories: 275
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the crumble base
  • 180 g vegan butter Rich butter alternative for a delightful texture.
  • 250 g plain flour (or GF flour mix) Provides a light, tender base.
  • 1.5 tsp cinnamon Adds warmth and depth.
  • 0.5 tsp cardamom Floral sweetness complements the spices.
  • 0.5 tsp fine salt Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
  • 1 tsp baking powder Leavening agent for a lighter crumble.
  • 90 g large rolled oats Provides chewiness and heartiness.
  • 150 g light brown sugar Adds a subtle caramel flavor.
For the blackberry filling
  • 450 g ripe blackberries The star ingredient for flavor.
  • 2 tbsp plain flour Helps thicken the filling.
  • 1 zest lemon Enhances flavor with citrus brightness.
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice Balancing acidity for sweetness.
  • 75 g sugar Enhances overall taste of the filling.
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract Adds an aromatic quality.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 180° C / 355° F (or 160° C / 320° F on a fan setting). Line a 20 cm / 8" square tin with baking paper.
  2. Place the vegan butter in the freezer for about 10 minutes. Once firm, grate the cold butter coarsely or cut it into small cubes.
  3. In a mixing bowl (or food processor), combine the flour, cinnamon, cardamom, salt, baking powder, oats, and sugar.
  4. Add the chilled butter to the dry mixture, and cut it into the mixture until it resembles small pebbles.
  5. Press just under two-thirds of the crumble mixture firmly into the base of your lined baking tin.
  6. Place the pressed mixture in the oven and bake for 15 minutes.
Filling Preparation
  1. In a medium-sized pot over low heat, combine the blackberries, flour, lemon zest, lemon juice, sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until bubbling.
  2. Let the filling bubble for about one minute before removing from heat.
  3. Spread the blackberry filling evenly over the baked base.
  4. Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture over the top of the blackberry filling.
Final Bake
  1. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the crumble is golden brown.
  2. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting. For cleaner slices, refrigerate overnight.

Notes

Use ripe, juicy blackberries for the best flavor. Any plant-based butter or margarine can be used. For gluten-free options, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend. Consider adding nuts or coconut for extra texture.