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Healthy Berry Streusel Bars Recipe

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4.2 from 10 reviews

These Healthy Berry Streusel Bars are a delicious and wholesome treat featuring a sweet mixed berry filling layered between a nutty oat crust and a crunchy almond streusel topping. Naturally sweetened with maple syrup and coconut sugar, and made using almond butter and coconut oil, they are perfect for a nutritious snack or dessert that balances sweetness and whole-food goodness.

  • Total Time: 3 hours 51 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings

Ingredients

Berry Filling

  • 1 and 1/2 Tablespoons (12g) cornstarch
  • 1 and 1/2 Tablespoons (23ml) water
  • 2 cups (about 300g) fresh or frozen mixed berries (do not thaw)
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) pure maple syrup
  • 1 Tablespoon (11g) coconut sugar, brown sugar, or granulated sugar

Crust/Streusel

  • 2 and 1/2 cups (213g) old-fashioned whole rolled oats or quick oats
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 cup (255g) almond butter
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) pure maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup (60g) unsweetened applesauce
  • 1/4 cup (56g) coconut oil, melted (or melted butter)

Topping

  • 1/2 cup (64g) sliced or chopped almonds
  • 1 extra Tablespoon oats

Instructions

  1. Prepare Berry Filling: Whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the cornstarch mixture, berries, maple syrup, and coconut sugar. Stir constantly using a rubber spatula, gently smashing some berries against the pan to release juices. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes, then remove from heat. Allow to cool completely, refrigerating if needed to speed cooling.
  2. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Line an 8 or 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
  3. Make the Crust/Streusel Mixture: Pulse oats in a food processor or blender until coarsely broken (about 10 pulses for whole oats, 5-6 for quick oats). Transfer to a bowl and mix in cinnamon, salt, almond butter, maple syrup, applesauce, and melted coconut oil until thick and wet.
  4. Form the Base Layer: Press approximately three-quarters of the crust mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan using the back of a spatula or spoon. Ensure it’s compact and flat to hold the bars’ shape.
  5. Assemble Filling: Spread the cooled berry filling evenly over the crust layer in the pan.
  6. Prepare Topping: Mix the sliced almonds into the remaining crust mixture. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the berry filling, then scatter 1 tablespoon of oats on top to absorb moisture.
  7. Bake the Bars: Bake in the preheated oven for 27 to 31 minutes, or until the topping is lightly browned. Remove from oven and transfer the pan to a cooling rack.
  8. Cool Completely: Let the bars cool at room temperature for about 1 hour. To speed cooling, place in the refrigerator afterward. Once cooled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang and cut into 12 squares.
  9. Store: Store leftover bars covered in the fridge for up to 1 week to maintain freshness.

Notes

  • Do not thaw frozen berries before cooking to avoid excess liquid in the filling.
  • Using parchment paper with an overhang makes lifting the bars out easier and prevents breaking.
  • Pressing the crust firmly is crucial for bars that hold their shape well.
  • You can substitute melted butter for coconut oil if preferred.
  • The bars can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature and make for a perfect nutritious snack or dessert option.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 31 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Find it online: https://dishiary.com/healthy-berry-streusel-bars-recipe/