The image appears to showcase delicious blueberry dessert bars with a drizzle of glaze on top. Here’s a comprehensive recipe inspired by the dish in the photo, along with detailed sections as requested.
Introduction
Blueberry crumble bars are a delectable dessert that combines a buttery crust, a luscious blueberry filling, and a crumbly topping. Perfect for any season, these bars are easy to prepare and offer a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness. Loved by dessert enthusiasts worldwide, they’re great for potlucks, tea parties, or simply as a comforting homemade treat.
Ingredients
For the Crust and Crumble:
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 cup unsalted butter (cold, diced)
½ tsp salt
½ tsp baking powder
For the Blueberry Filling:
3 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 tbsp cornstarch
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Glaze:
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tbsp milk or cream
½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions and Methods
- Prepare the Crust and Crumble:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
Add the cold, diced butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Reserve 1 cup of this mixture for the crumble topping.
Press the remaining mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
- Make the Blueberry Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the blueberries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until the blueberries are well-coated.
Spread the blueberry mixture evenly over the crust.
- Assemble the Bars:
Sprinkle the reserved crumble mixture evenly over the blueberry filling.
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Prepare the Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bars before cutting them into squares.
History
The origins of crumble bars can be traced back to traditional fruit pies, where bakers began experimenting with easier, portable variations. Blueberries, native to North America, became a popular filling due to their natural sweetness and vibrant color. Over time, this dessert evolved into a favorite in American and European kitchens.
Benefits
Rich in Antioxidants: Blueberries are packed with antioxidants that promote heart health and brain function.
Energy Boost: The combination of carbs and natural sugars provides a quick energy boost.
Customizable: These bars can be made with various fruits like raspberries, peaches, or cherries.
Portability: Perfect for on-the-go snacking or packed lunches.
Formation
The beauty of blueberry crumble bars lies in their versatility. The layers of buttery crust, juicy filling, and crumbly topping ensure each bite is satisfying. The glaze adds a touch of sweetness, making it perfect for dessert lovers.
Nutrition
Per Serving (based on 16 bars):
Calories: 280
Protein: 3g
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 20g
Conclusion
Blueberry crumble bars are a delightful combination of simplicity and indulgence. Their balance of textures and flavors makes them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is a must-try.
For the Lovers
Blueberry crumble bars are beloved by dessert enthusiasts who adore the blend of buttery crusts with fruity, tangy fillings. Pair them with a hot cup of tea or coffee for an extra-special treat!
Enjoy baking! Let me know if you want more details or variations.