Ingredients
Main Ingredients
The main ingredients in a blueberry crumb bars recipe typically include:
- All-purpose flour serves as the base for the crust and crumble topping, providing structure and texture to the bars.
- Granulated sugar adds sweetness to balance out the tartness of the blueberries, while also contributing to the browning of the crust during baking.
- Brown sugar enhances the caramel-like flavor in the crumb topping and adds a deeper sweetness to the overall dessert.
- Unsalted butter provides moisture and tenderness to the bars, as well as contributes to the richness of the crumb topping.
- Salt brings out the flavors of the other ingredients, balancing out the sweetness and enhancing the overall taste experience.
- Cold unsalted butter is also used in the making of the crumble topping, which gives it a crunchy texture when baked.
- Confectioners’ sugar or powdered sugar is often sprinkled on top of the bars before serving, adding an extra touch of sweetness and a beautiful presentation.
- The star ingredient of blueberry crumb bars is fresh or frozen blueberries, providing natural sweetness and a burst of juicy flavor in every bite.
2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
The star ingredient of our Blueberry Crumb Bars Recipe is, of course, the sweet and luscious blueberries! We use a total of 2 cups of fresh or frozen blueberries in this recipe.
Fresh blueberries are preferred when they’re in season, as they provide the best flavor and texture. However, frozen blueberries can be used year-round and are just as delicious. In fact, freezing helps preserve the berries’ natural sweetness and antioxidant properties.
When using fresh blueberries, make sure to pick out any stems or debris before adding them to the recipe. Frozen blueberries, on the other hand, have usually been washed and prepped for use in baking.
Two cups of blueberries may seem like a lot, but trust us when we say that they’re essential for achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures in these bars. The blueberries will infuse their sweet-tart flavor into the filling and provide a pop of juicy sweetness with each bite.
In addition to providing natural sweetness, blueberries also bring a boost of antioxidants and fiber to our Blueberry Crumb Bars Recipe. This makes them an excellent choice for anyone looking for a healthier dessert option or wanting to incorporate more whole foods into their diet.
So there you have it – 2 cups of fresh or frozen blueberries are the key ingredient in our Blueberry Crumb Bars Recipe! Whether you choose to use fresh or frozen, we hope you enjoy making and devouring these delicious bars as much as we do!
1 cup granulated sugar
The first ingredient for our Blueberry Crumb Bars recipe is granulated sugar, which plays a crucial role in balancing the sweetness and texture of the dish. Here are some key details about this ingredient:
- Amount: One cup of granulated sugar is required for this recipe.
- Type: Granulated sugar is also known as white sugar or table sugar, which is a refined and pure form of sucrose obtained from sugarcane or sugar beets.
- Function: In the context of our Blueberry Crumb Bars recipe, granulated sugar serves multiple purposes. It adds sweetness to the filling and helps balance the tartness of the blueberries. The sugar also caramelizes during baking, creating a crispy texture on top of the bars.
- Measurement: To accurately measure one cup of granulated sugar, you can use a digital kitchen scale or a standard dry measuring cup. For best results, make sure to level off the sugar in the measuring cup using a straight edge or knife.
When selecting a granulated sugar for this recipe, it’s essential to choose a high-quality product that is free from additives and impurities. You can find granulated sugar at most grocery stores or online retailers, often packaged in bulk or in smaller quantities for convenience.
Add-ins
The ingredients required for the Blueberry Crumb Bars Recipe include:
- All-purpose flour: This is the primary dry ingredient that provides structure and texture to the bars, and should be measured accurately to ensure even baking.
- Brown sugar: A combination of white granulated sugar and molasses gives brown sugar its distinctive flavor and aroma, which complements the sweetness of the blueberries perfectly.
- Granulated sugar: Used in moderation, this type of sugar adds sweetness without overpowering the natural flavors of the other ingredients.
- Cold unsalted butter: Cutting cold butter into small pieces ensures that it melts evenly during baking, creating a crispy and golden-brown crust on top of the bars.
- Egg: As a binder, egg helps hold the filling together by adding moisture and structure to the mixture.
- Vanilla extract: A dash of vanilla adds a hint of warm, comforting flavor that balances out the sweetness of the blueberries and sugar.
- Leavening agents (baking powder): These agents help create air pockets in the dough, resulting in lighter and flakier texture in the finished bars.
The add-ins used in this recipe include:
Blueberries: Fresh or frozen blueberries bring their characteristic sweet-tart flavor and juicy texture to the dish, making it a delightful treat for anyone who loves these tiny fruits.
Oat flour (optional): Some recipes may recommend adding oat flour as an alternative to all-purpose flour, which provides a nutty and slightly earthy flavor that complements blueberries well. However, it can be omitted if preferred or not available.
When using add-ins like blueberries, make sure they’re fresh, plump, and evenly distributed throughout the filling for optimal flavor and texture in the finished bars.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
The ingredients for this delicious Blueberry Crumb Bars Recipe include:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
- For the crumb topping:
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup allpurpose flour
The ingredients for this recipe are essential to creating a delicious and moist blueberry crumb bar.
The list of ingredients includes:
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup all-purpose flour, as mentioned in the prompt, is a crucial component when making the crumb topping for these bars. This type of flour is essential for providing structure and texture to the crumb mixture.
This type of flour has a neutral flavor and will not impart any strong taste to the blueberry filling or the crumb topping. The combination of all-purpose flour with granulated sugar, cold butter, and other ingredients creates a delicious and crunchy crumb topping that complements the sweetness of the blueberries perfectly.
The 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour also helps to bind the crumb mixture together when it’s pressed into the baking dish. This helps the crumbs stay in place while the bars are baking, creating a beautifully golden-brown crust.
+ 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
The ingredients for the Blueberry Crumb Bars recipe include a combination of common and specialized baking components.
The dry ingredients comprise 2 cups of all-purpose flour, which serves as the primary structural element in the dough, providing texture and support to the bars. One teaspoon of salt is also added to enhance flavor and control yeast growth, although this specific recipe does not rely on yeast fermentation.
Additionally, there are two separate mixtures that require different ratios of leavening agents. The first mixture includes 1/2 teaspoon baking powder as a primary leavening agent. Baking powder is a mixture of acid and base components, designed to release carbon dioxide gas when exposed to liquid ingredients or heat, thereby contributing to the expansion and lightness of baked goods.
The second leavening component consists of an additional 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, which serves a similar purpose as the baking powder in terms of creating air pockets within the dough. Baking soda is a base that releases gas when it comes into contact with acidic ingredients or liquid ingredients and heat, leading to a similar effect on the texture of baked goods.
In terms of liquid ingredients, 1/2 cup (110g) unsalted butter is required for each component of the recipe. The butter contributes richness, moisture, and tenderness to the bars.
One cup of granulated sugar is also necessary for both components of the recipe, providing sweetness and flavor balance. The amount of sugar may be adjusted according to personal taste preferences or dietary requirements.
The fruit component includes 2 cups of fresh blueberries as the primary source of natural sweetness and flavor. Fresh berries contribute moisture and texture to the bars, while their juice helps to bind the filling components together.
Instructions
Cake Preparation
Cake preparation involves following specific instructions to achieve the desired result, whether it’s baking a cake or preparing a dessert like blueberry crumb bars.
When making blueberry crumb bars, the first step in cake preparation is measuring and mixing the dry ingredients, such as flour, sugar, and salt.
These dry ingredients are typically combined in a large bowl using a whisk or spoon until well incorporated.
The wet ingredients, including butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk, are then added to the dry mixture, stirring until just combined.
A key aspect of cake preparation is not overmixing the batter, as this can result in tough or dense baked goods.
For blueberry crumb bars, some recipes may call for adding fresh or frozen blueberries to the batter before pouring it into a greased and floured baking dish.
Another crucial step in cake preparation is allowing the mixture to rest or sit for a specified period of time, such as 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the recipe.
This resting time allows the flour to absorb excess moisture, which can impact the texture and consistency of the finished product.
After the resting time has elapsed, the batter is poured into the prepared baking dish and topped with a crumb mixture composed of sugar, butter, and flour, then baked until golden brown.
The final step in cake preparation involves allowing the blueberry crumb bars to cool completely on a wire rack before cutting and serving.
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
To complete this task, you will need to follow a series of steps that are outlined below.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
The first step in making these delicious Blueberry Crumb Bars is to preheat your oven. This is an essential step as it ensures that your baked goods turn out perfectly cooked and with the right texture.
- Locate the oven controls in your kitchen, typically found at the front or side of the appliance.
- Identify the temperature setting, usually a digital display or a series of numbers indicating different temperature settings.
- Select the correct temperature setting by pressing the corresponding button or turning the dial to 375°F (190°C).
Once you have selected the correct temperature, the oven will begin to heat up. This may take a few minutes, so be patient and wait for the preheating process to complete.
Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients
While your oven is preheating, you can start preparing the ingredients needed for this recipe. The Blueberry Crumb Bars Recipe requires the following ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
Mix the dry ingredients in a bowl and set them aside for now. The butter will need to be refrigerated until needed, so make sure it’s chilled.
Step 3: Assemble the Crumb Topping
Once you have prepared all the ingredients, it’s time to assemble the crumb topping for your Blueberry Crumb Bars. This is a crucial step as it gives the bars their signature texture and flavor.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Use your fingers or a pastry blender to work the butter into the dry ingredients until they resemble small peas.
- Stir in the beaten egg and vanilla extract until the dough comes together in a cohesive mass. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough crumb bars.
Now that you have assembled the crumb topping, it’s time to prepare the blueberry filling.
Step 4: Prepare the Blueberry Filling
The blueberry filling is a crucial component of your Blueberry Crumb Bars. This sweet and tangy mixture will add depth and flavor to your baked goods.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt until well combined.
- Add the fresh or frozen blueberries to the bowl and toss them with the dry ingredients until they are evenly coated.
Now that you have prepared both the crumb topping and the blueberry filling, it’s time to assemble your Blueberry Crumb Bars.
Step 5: Assemble the Bars
The final step in making these delicious Blueberry Crumb Bars is to assemble them. This involves layering the crumb topping with the blueberry filling and baking until golden brown.
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, press half of the crumb mixture into the bottom of the pan.
- Top the crumb mixture with the blueberry filling, spreading it evenly over the top.
- Press the remaining crumb mixture on top of the blueberry filling.
Bake the bars in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 40-50 minutes or until they are golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool completely before serving.
Mix together sugar and melted butter for a crumbly mixture, then set aside
To prepare the crumb topping for our Blueberry Crumb Bars Recipe, we need to follow these steps:
- Melt one-half cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over low heat or in the microwave in 10-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth. You can also use a double boiler if you have one.
- Once the butter has melted and is fully incorporated, add one-half cup of white granulated sugar to the saucepan and stir until well combined.
Now that we have our sugar and melted butter mixture, it’s time to mix it together to create a crumbly texture.
- Using a wooden spoon or a silicone spatula, start by mixing the sugar and butter mixture in a gentle stirring motion. You’ll begin to see the mixture come together and form small clumps.
- Continue to mix until the clumps have broken down into a uniform crumbly texture. This should take about 2-3 minutes of consistent mixing, depending on your starting speed.
At this point, we’ve successfully created our crumb topping for the Blueberry Crumb Bars Recipe. Make sure to set it aside in an air-tight container or zip-top bag at room temperature for later use.
Tart Crust
To make the perfect tart crust for the Blueberry Crumb Bars, it’s essential to understand the fundamental steps involved in creating this crucial component.
The process begins with combining flour, salt, and sugar in a bowl. Using cold ingredients is vital, as warm temperatures can lead to an overworked dough, resulting in a tough crust. It’s recommended to use a pastry blender or your fingertips to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
The next step is adding ice water, which should be done gradually while gently stirring the mixture with a fork. The key is to stop mixing once the dough comes together in a shaggy mass. Overworking at this stage can cause the gluten in the flour to develop, leading to an unpleasant texture.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently until it becomes smooth and pliable. Form the dough into a flat disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the gluten to relax.
When you’re ready to roll out the tart crust, remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. This will make the dough easier to work with and reduce the likelihood of cracking.
Dust a lightly floured surface or rolling pin with flour and roll the chilled dough into a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer the dough to a 9×9-inch baking dish, trimming any excess dough from the edges.
Pierce the dough with a fork in several places to prevent it from bubbling up during baking. Brush the surface with egg wash or water for an extra-golden finish and sprinkle sugar over the crust for added flavor and visual appeal.
+ Mix together flour, baking powder and salt
In order to create the foundation for these delicious Blueberry Crumb Bars, it’s essential to start by mixing together a trio of dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, and salt. This process requires attention to detail and a gentle touch to prevent over-mixing.
To begin, you’ll need to sift the flour into a large bowl to ensure that any lumps or clumps are removed. Next, add 1 teaspoon of baking powder to the bowl, making sure it’s evenly distributed among the flour.
Now, carefully pour in ½ teaspoon of salt into the mixture. You can use either table salt or kosher salt for this recipe; however, keep in mind that kosher salt has a coarser texture and may require slightly more granules to achieve the same level of seasoning.
Using a wire whisk or a wooden spoon, gently combine the dry ingredients until they’re just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can cause the mixture to become dense and tough.
The goal is to create a smooth, even texture that’s free from any visible lumps or streaks. If you find that your mixture still has some lumps after whisking, you can try sifting it one more time through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any remaining clumps.
Once the flour mixture is ready, set it aside and move on to preparing the next components of your Blueberry Crumb Bars recipe. Remember to keep these dry ingredients separate from the wet ingredients to avoid cross-contamination and ensure the best possible texture in your final bars.
Remember, taking your time and being patient during this step will pay off in the end with a deliciously textured crumble that complements the sweet blueberry filling perfectly. By mixing together flour, baking powder, and salt correctly, you’ll set yourself up for success in creating a truly mouthwatering Blueberry Crumb Bar!
+ Add in cold butter and mix until crumbly
Instructions for making Blueberry Crumb Bars require a clear and step-by-step approach to ensure that the final product turns out as desired.
The first step involves preheating the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit, which sets the stage for the baking process. While the oven is warming up, it’s essential to prepare the ingredients necessary for the crumb topping.
To create the perfect crumb topping, cold butter and granulated sugar need to be combined in a bowl. Then, add the cold butter and mix until crumbly – this is crucial for achieving the right texture.
Once the crumb mixture has reached the desired consistency, it’s time to add other dry ingredients such as all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. The dry ingredients should be mixed gently into the crumb topping to ensure an even distribution.
Now that the crumb topping is ready, move on to preparing the blueberry filling. In a separate bowl, mix together fresh or frozen blueberries with granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, and lemon zest. This mixture will serve as the base for the fruit layer in the bars.
The prepared blueberry filling should be evenly spread over the crust that has been formed earlier in the recipe. Then, it’s time to add the crumb topping evenly over the blueberry layer, spreading it out as thinly and uniformly as possible.
Finally, place the baking dish into the preheated oven for approximately 40-45 minutes or until the crumb topping has turned golden brown. During this time, keep an eye on the bars to prevent them from becoming overcooked or too dark in color.
Once the Blueberry Crumb Bars have finished baking, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool completely before slicing into individual portions.
Assembly and Baking
Layering
Assembly and baking are crucial steps in creating a delicious Blueberry Crumb Bars recipe, specifically when it comes to layering the ingredients.
The process begins with preparing the shortbread crust, which typically consists of all-purpose flour, cold butter, and granulated sugar. The mixture is then pressed into the prepared baking dish, ensuring an even base for the subsequent layers.
Next, a layer of sweetened batter is poured over the crust, often made from a combination of eggs, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. This layer serves as the foundation for the blueberry filling that will be added next.
The blueberry mixture is then spread evenly over the batter layer, usually consisting of fresh or frozen blueberries, granulated sugar, and cornstarch to prevent excessive juice release during baking.
To add an extra layer of texture and flavor, a crumb topping made from flour, sugar, cold butter, and often brown sugar is sprinkled over the blueberry layer. This crumb mixture provides a delightful contrast in texture to the smooth batter and fruit.
The final step involves baking the assembled bars, typically at a moderate temperature (around 350°F) for approximately 40-50 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set. After removing from the oven, allow the bars to cool before cutting into squares and serving.
Spread cake mixture evenly across a prepared baking dish
To create a delicious Blueberry Crumb Bars, it’s essential to assemble and bake the cake mixture evenly across a prepared baking dish.
The first step is to prepare the baking dish by lining it with parchment paper or grease it lightly with butter or cooking spray. This will ensure that the bars release easily once they’re baked and cooled.
Next, scoop the prepared blueberry filling into the center of the prepared baking dish, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. The blueberry filling should be evenly distributed to maintain the bar’s structural integrity.
Now, it’s time to prepare the crumb topping mixture, which typically consists of flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cold butter or oil, and sometimes nuts or oats. Using your fingers or a pastry blender, work the ingredients together until they form a crumbly mixture with a texture similar to wet sand.
Spread half of the crumb topping mixture evenly across the blueberry filling, covering it completely. You can use a spatula or the back of a spoon to ensure an even layer.
For the top layer of crumb topping, repeat the process by spreading the remaining mixture evenly across the top of the bars. This will create a beautiful, golden-brown crust on top of the blueberry filling.
To assemble and bake the cake mixture evenly, you’ll need to arrange the bars in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. The bars should be pressed down gently to ensure they’re even and flat.
Place the baking dish in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 40-45 minutes or until the crumb topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. A toothpick inserted into the center of the bars should come out clean, indicating they’re done.
Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before cutting into bars and serving. This will allow the filling to set and the crumb topping to firm up, making it easier to cut through the bars.
Once cooled, you can refrigerate or freeze the Blueberry Crumb Bars for later use, if desired.
Baking
The art of assembly and baking has been a cornerstone of culinary traditions for centuries. At its core, baking is a precise and delicate process that requires patience, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of the ingredients and their interactions.
When it comes to assembling a baked good like Blueberry Crumb Bars, the process can be broken down into several key components: preparation, assembly, and baking. Preparation involves measuring out the dry ingredients, such as flour, sugar, and leavening agents, and creaming together the wet ingredients, like butter or oil, and eggs.
The assembly stage is where things really come together – pun intended! This is when we take our prepared ingredients and carefully layer them in a baking dish to create the crumbly crust, sweet filling, and crunchy topping that characterizes Blueberry Crumb Bars. It’s essential to work efficiently during this stage, as any miscalculations or mishaps can lead to an uneven texture or inconsistent flavor.
One of the most critical aspects of assembly when it comes to Blueberry Crumb Bars is ensuring that each layer is evenly distributed and harmonious in its own right. This might involve pressing the crumb topping into the corners and edges of the dish, or gently folding the blueberry filling into the mixture to avoid overmixing.
Once our layers are carefully assembled, it’s time for the most critical stage: baking! During this process, the ingredients come together in a beautiful symphony of flavors and textures. The heat from the oven causes the butter and sugar to caramelize and create that perfect golden-brown crust that we all know and love.
The resulting Blueberry Crumb Bars are a masterpiece – crumbly, sweet, and perfectly balanced in texture and flavor. Whether you’re serving them as a snack or dessert, they’re sure to impress your friends and family with their tantalizing aroma and irresistible taste.
+ Bake for approximately 4050 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown
The process of baking involves a combination of measurement, mixing, and manipulation of ingredients to create a desired outcome. In the case of making a blueberry crumb bar, the first step is to preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the oven is at the correct temperature for baking.
Next, prepare the crust mixture by combining 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a large bowl. The use of all-purpose flour provides structure and texture to the bars, while the granulated sugar adds sweetness.
In a separate bowl, mix together 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces, and 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar until it resembles coarse crumbs. The addition of confectioners’ sugar helps balance out the flavor of the bars.
Once the crust mixture has been prepared, add the cold butter to the dry ingredients and mix until the dough comes together in a ball. This process can be done using a pastry blender or your fingertips. Make sure not to overwork the dough, as this will cause it to become tough and dense.
To assemble the bars, press half of the crust mixture into the bottom of an 8-inch square baking dish that has been greased with butter or cooking spray.
Next, prepare the blueberry filling by combining 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 2 tablespoons cornstarch in a separate bowl. The use of cornstarch helps thicken the mixture and prevent it from becoming too runny.
Spoon the blueberry mixture over the crust, making sure to spread it evenly throughout the baking dish.
Finally, sprinkle the remaining crust mixture on top of the blueberry filling, creating a crumb topping. Bake the bars in the preheated oven for approximately 4050 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. This can take anywhere from 25-35 minutes depending on your oven.
To ensure that the bars are baked to perfection, check on them every 10-15 minutes. When the crust has reached a golden brown color and the blueberries have bubbled up slightly, remove the baking dish from the oven.
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares and serving. These delicious blueberry crumb bars are perfect for any occasion and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the crust mixture by combining flour, granulated sugar, and salt in a large bowl.
- Mix together cold butter and confectioners’ sugar until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the cold butter to the dry ingredients and mix until the dough comes together in a ball.
- Press half of the crust mixture into the bottom of an 8-inch square baking dish that has been greased with butter or cooking spray.
- Prepare the blueberry filling by combining blueberries, granulated sugar, and cornstarch in a separate bowl.
- Spoon the blueberry mixture over the crust.
- Bake the bars in the preheated oven for approximately 4050 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
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