Bountiful Blueberry Crumb Bars

By srumbel

This recipe post for blueberry crumb bars is a beloved blast that I’m re-sharing today. These goodies are perfect for picnics or an any-day kind of treat, and a fantastic way to enjoy summer’s fresh fruit.
from godairyfree.org

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups quick oats or old-fashioned oats
• 1/2 cup all-purpose or whole wheat pastry flour (see below for gluten-free option)
• 1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar or coconut sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 6 tablespoons dairy-free margarine, melted (can sub 1/3 cup coconut oil or palm shortening)
• 1 1/2 cups blueberries, rinsed and drained
• 3 tablespoons sugar, honey or maple syrup
• 2 teaspoons non-GMO cornstarch or arrowroot starch
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Preparation

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350ºF and grease an 8-inch square baking pan.
In a large bowl, whisk together the oats, flour, brown sugar, baking soda and salt.
Add the melted margarine and stir with a fork until evenly combined and large crumbs form.
Reserve ½ cup of the crumb mixture for topping.
Press the remaining mixture evenly and firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan.
Bake for 12 minutes to set crust.
While that is baking, combine the berries, sugar, cornstarch and lemon juice in a small saucepan, whisking until the starch dissolves.
Heat over medium heat until the mixture comes to a simmer.
Simmer, stirring occasionally, until the juices are no longer cloudy, about 2 minutes.
Spoon the filling over the baked crust and evenly crumble the reserved crumb mixture over top.
Bake for 30 minutes.
Let cool completely in the pan, before cutting into squares.

Notes
Gluten-Free Option: You can substitute your favorite all-purpose gluten-free flour blend for the flour – preferably one with a little xanthan or guar gum in it or that tends to have good binding properties, like Enjoy Life All-Purpose Flour Mix.

Serves: 12 bars