Banana Berry Crumble Bars
Highlighted under: Tasty Treat Recipes
Delightful Banana Berry Crumble Bars that combine the sweetness of ripe bananas with a medley of juicy berries, all topped with a buttery crumble.
These Banana Berry Crumble Bars are the perfect treat for breakfast or dessert. The combination of ripe bananas and fresh berries makes for a delicious and nutritious snack that everyone will love.
Why You'll Love These Bars
- A delightful blend of sweet bananas and tart berries
- Crispy crumble topping that adds the perfect texture
- Easy to make and perfect for sharing with friends and family
The Perfect Snack for Any Occasion
Banana Berry Crumble Bars are not just a treat; they are a versatile snack that fits perfectly into any occasion. Whether you're hosting a weekend brunch, looking for a healthy snack for the kids, or craving something sweet to accompany your afternoon tea, these bars are the answer. Their delightful combination of flavors and textures makes them a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy.
These bars are incredibly easy to prepare, making them ideal for busy days when you want to whip up something quick yet delicious. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can impress friends and family with this homemade delight. Plus, they’re great for meal prep—bake a batch and enjoy them throughout the week!
Health Benefits of Ingredients
The main ingredients in Banana Berry Crumble Bars offer a wealth of health benefits. Bananas are a fantastic source of potassium, essential for heart health and muscle function. They also provide natural sweetness, reducing the need for added sugars. Coupled with mixed berries, which are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, this snack is not just tasty but also nutritious.
Oats, another key component, are a great source of whole grains that can help lower cholesterol and keep you feeling full longer. This makes these bars not just a dessert but a wholesome option for breakfast or a post-workout snack. Enjoying these bars means indulging in something sweet without compromising on health.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Once baked, allow the Banana Berry Crumble Bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing. To store, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, these bars freeze exceptionally well; simply wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to three months in the freezer, making them a convenient option for future cravings.
For serving suggestions, consider pairing these bars with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent dessert. You can also drizzle a little extra honey or maple syrup on top for added sweetness. These bars are perfect for sharing, so don’t hesitate to bring them to potlucks, picnics, or family gatherings!
Ingredients
For the base and topping
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
For the filling
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Mix all ingredients thoroughly for the best flavor.
Instructions
Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8 inch baking dish.
Prepare the crumble mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, melted butter, salt, and cinnamon. Mix until crumbly.
Make the filling
In another bowl, combine mashed bananas, mixed berries, honey, and lemon juice. Stir until well mixed.
Assemble the bars
Press half of the crumble mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spread the banana-berry filling evenly over the base, then top with the remaining crumble mixture.
Bake
Bake for 25 minutes or until the topping is golden brown. Let cool before slicing into bars.
Enjoy your delicious Banana Berry Crumble Bars!
Tips for Perfect Bars
To achieve the best texture for your Banana Berry Crumble Bars, make sure to use ripe bananas. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bars will be. This natural sweetness will enhance the overall taste without needing excessive added sugars.
When preparing your crumble topping, don’t overmix. You want to maintain some texture, so mix until the ingredients just come together. This will ensure that your topping is nice and crumbly, adding that delightful crunch to each bite.
Variations to Try
Feel free to customize your Banana Berry Crumble Bars by experimenting with different types of berries. Blackberries, cranberries, or even cherries can provide unique flavors and added nutrition. You can also mix in nuts or seeds for an extra crunch and a dose of healthy fats.
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend. This way, everyone can enjoy these delicious bars regardless of dietary preferences!
Pairing Ideas
These Banana Berry Crumble Bars pair wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making them a perfect afternoon snack. Consider serving them alongside a refreshing fruit smoothie for a nutritious breakfast or brunch option.
For a more decadent treat, serve these bars warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. This will elevate the experience and make it a delightful dessert for special occasions!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen berries?
Yes, frozen berries work well, but make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture.
→ How do I store the bars?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
→ Can I substitute the butter?
Yes, you can use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative.
→ What can I use instead of honey?
Maple syrup or agave syrup are great alternatives.
Banana Berry Crumble Bars
Delightful Banana Berry Crumble Bars that combine the sweetness of ripe bananas with a medley of juicy berries, all topped with a buttery crumble.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Tasty Treat Recipes
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 12 bars
What You'll Need
For the base and topping
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
For the filling
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8 inch baking dish.
In a mixing bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, melted butter, salt, and cinnamon. Mix until crumbly.
In another bowl, combine mashed bananas, mixed berries, honey, and lemon juice. Stir until well mixed.
Press half of the crumble mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spread the banana-berry filling evenly over the base, then top with the remaining crumble mixture.
Bake for 25 minutes or until the topping is golden brown. Let cool before slicing into bars.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 3g