Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly balanced dessert that's not just mouth-wateringly delicious, but also completely plant-based and surprisingly simple to make! These Vegan Raspberry Rhubarb Crumble Bars are the ultimate crowd-pleaser that will transform your perception of healthy desserts. With a crispy, golden oat base, bursting with tangy-sweet fruit and a crumbly topping, these bars are about to become your new favorite treat that looks like it came straight from a professional bakery – but can be whipped up in just 50 minutes!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Vegan
Serves: 9 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup flour
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 1 cup raspberries
- 1 cup rhubarb, chopped
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring the paper overhangs on two sides for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, and salt. Mix thoroughly to distribute ingredients evenly.
- Add melted coconut oil and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Use a fork or your hands to mix until the mixture becomes crumbly and starts to hold together when pressed.
- Press approximately two-thirds of the crumble mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, creating a firm, even base layer.
- In a separate bowl, gently mix chopped rhubarb and raspberries. If the fruits are very tart, you can optionally add 1-2 tablespoons of maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Spread the fruit mixture evenly over the crumble base, ensuring complete coverage.
- Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture over the top of the fruit layer, creating a rustic, uneven topping.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling around the edges.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan for at least 1 hour. This helps the bars set and makes cutting easier.
- Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Cut into 9 equal squares using a sharp knife.
- Serve at room temperature or slightly warm. Optional: dust with powdered sugar or serve with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream.
Tips
- Ensure your coconut oil is melted but not hot when mixing with dry ingredients to achieve the perfect crumbly texture.
- For extra flavor, consider toasting your rolled oats briefly before mixing for a nutty undertone.
- If your fruits are particularly tart, don't hesitate to add a touch of maple syrup to balance the flavors.
- Let the bars cool completely before cutting to ensure they hold their shape and don't crumble.
- For a more decadent finish, serve with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of coconut cream.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 0mg
