Blueberry Crumble Bars

Are you looking for a delicious healthier dessert to serve this Thanksgiving? One your family and friends will not be able to resist?

One with less sugar, more fibre and made with 100% whole grains? But one that no one will know is actually healthier? Well you’ve come to the right place. I came across this recipe for blueberry crumble bars in the summer and thought these bars where simply amazing. I have made them with fresh berries and with frozen berries – both turn out equally well.

Ingredients:

Crust and Crumble Topping

• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 3/4 cup old-fashioned whole-rolled oats
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar

Blueberry Layer

• 2 cups blueberries (fresh or frozen)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch

Directions:

• Preheat oven to 350F. Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper; set aside

Crust and Crumble Topping

• Add the oil, flour, oats, and sugars, stir to combine. Mixture will be dry and sandy with some larger, well-formed crumble pieces.
  
• Set aside 1 cup of the mixture to sprinkle on later as the crumble topping.
• Transfer remaining mixture to prepared pan, and using a spatula or your fingers, hard-pack the mixture to create an even, smooth, flat crust; set aside.
  
  
  
  

Blueberry Layer

• In a large mixing bowl add all ingredients and toss to combine. Evenly distribute blueberry mixture over the crust.
  
  
  
  
  
  
• Sprinkle the blueberry layer with the reserved 1 cup crumble topping mixture. 
  
• Bake for about 55 minutes, or until edges are set and center has just set. Crumble topping should appear set and very pale golden.
  
• Place pan on a wire rack and allow bars to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Note: These bars also freeze well.

Enjoy!  

Shannon RD

Registered Dietitian

Original recipe from: http://www.averiecooks.com/2015/02/blueberry-oatmeal-crumble-bars.html