Name: Blueberry Pie Bars with Oatmeal Crumble (Vegan & Gluten-Free) Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups gluten free oat flour (or sub all purpose flour); 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats, gluten free if desired; ½ cup packed brown sugar (or sub coconut sugar but may affect crumble texture); ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon; ¼ teaspoon baking soda; ¼ teaspoon salt; 8 tablespoons butter or vegan buttery stick, melted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ¼ teaspoon almond extract; 2 ½ heaping cups fresh or frozen blueberries; 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup; 1 tablespoon cornstarch or arrowroot starch; ⅛ teaspoon almond extract; Pinch of salt; Optional: Zest from 1 lemon for a hint of lemon flavor

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 11 reviews

Discover pure joy in every bite with this Blueberry Pie Bars with Oatmeal Crumble (Vegan & Gluten-Free) Recipe. Imagine the burst of juicy blueberries nestled beneath a buttery oat crumble, all without gluten or animal products. These bars bring together the best of classic pie flavors and wholesome ingredients, making them a perfect treat that’s both comforting and mindful. Whether you’re looking for a fresh spring dessert or a summery snack, these blueberry pie bars promise to become your new favorite indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl filled with dark purple blueberry sauce that has a thick, shiny texture with whole blueberries visible throughout. A gold spoon with a white handle is partially submerged in the sauce, lifting some of the blueberries and the glossy liquid. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface with a soft gray cloth partially visible near its edge. The sauce has a rich, deep color that contrasts with the white bowl and the marble background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient in this recipe plays an essential role, creating layers of flavor, texture, and vibrant color that make these bars irresistible. From the nutty, crunchy oats to the juicy blueberries sparkling with sweetness, simplicity truly shines here.

Gluten free oat flour (1½ cups): Provides a tender yet sturdy crust that’s naturally gluten-free and slightly nutty.
Old-fashioned rolled oats (1 cup): Adds delightful texture and rustic charm to both crust and crumble.
Brown sugar (½ cup, packed): Sweetens the bars while helping to create that perfect golden crumble.
Ground cinnamon (½ teaspoon): Infuses a warm, inviting spice that complements the blueberries beautifully.
Baking soda (¼ teaspoon): Helps the crust rise slightly and keeps it light.
Salt (¼ teaspoon): Balances all the sweet elements and brightens flavors.
Butter or vegan buttery stick (8 tablespoons, melted): Binds the crumble while adding richness and a tender bite.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors with its sweet, floral notes.
Almond extract (¼ teaspoon): Offers a subtle nutty aroma that pairs perfectly with the berries.
Fresh or frozen blueberries (2½ heaping cups): The star ingredient, bursting with juicy sweetness and a hint of tartness.
Pure maple syrup (3 tablespoons): Naturally sweetens the filling with a rich, earthy undertone.
Cornstarch or arrowroot starch (1 tablespoon): Thickens the filling to just the right luscious consistency.
Lemon zest (optional, from 1 lemon): Adds a refreshing brightness if you like a hint of citrus.
Pinch of salt: Balances the blueberry filling and amplifies the depth of flavors.

How to Make Blueberry Pie Bars with Oatmeal Crumble (Vegan & Gluten-Free) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat Oven

Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper, making sure to spray generously with a nonstick cooking spray. This preparation ensures your bars will lift out cleanly and bake evenly — trust me, it makes a huge difference!

Step 2: Make the Crust and Crumble

In a large bowl, whisk together the oat flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt until evenly mixed. Then add the melted butter, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Stir until you get a crumbly dough that starts to clump together — this is where the magic of the perfect crumble happens. Save about one-quarter of this mixture by placing it in the fridge for later topping.

Step 3: Press the Crust into the Pan

Take 1 3/4 cups of the oat mixture and press it evenly and firmly into your prepared pan using clean hands. Establish a flat and firm base that will hold all that delicious blueberry filling without sogginess.

Step 4: Cook the Blueberry Filling

In a medium pot over medium heat, combine blueberries, maple syrup, almond extract, cornstarch (or arrowroot), and a pinch of salt. Use a wooden spoon to lightly press down on the blueberries, helping them release their juices. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let it cook for 3 to 5 minutes until thickened and luscious enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Step 5: Assemble the Bars

Pour the thickened blueberry filling over your oat crust. Spread it out evenly to ensure every bar has a full burst of berry goodness. Then, take the chilled topping from the fridge and sprinkle it generously over the blueberries, letting those beautiful crumbles fall naturally.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake the bars at 350°F for about 30 minutes, or until the blueberry filling is bubbly and the oat crumble turns a gorgeous golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen with warm, fruity comfort that’s simply irresistible.

Step 7: Cool and Chill

Allow the bars to cool completely on a wire rack before transferring them to the fridge to chill. Chilling helps the filling set, making it easier to slice. When ready, cut into 16 bars with a sharp knife for perfect portions every time.

How to Serve Blueberry Pie Bars with Oatmeal Crumble (Vegan & Gluten-Free) Recipe

The image shows several square blueberry oat bars arranged on a white marbled surface. Each bar has three layers: a light brown oat crust on the bottom, a thick dark purple blueberry filling in the middle, and a crumbly golden oat topping with large oats on top. The bars are unevenly shaped with crumbs scattered around. Fresh whole blueberries are placed casually around the bars, adding a pop of deep blue color. One bar in the center has a bite taken out of it, showing its layered inside clearly. The focus is sharp on the nearest bar while the others blur softly in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

These bars love a simple, elegant garnish. A dusting of powdered sugar, a few fresh blueberries, or a sprig of fresh mint can elevate their look and flavor effortlessly. For a decadent touch, try a dollop of vegan whipped cream or a drizzle of maple syrup on top.

Side Dishes

Pair these bars with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream or a refreshing glass of iced herbal tea. On brunch days, they make a fantastic companion to plant-based yogurt and granola, creating a balanced and nourishing spread that feels both homey and indulgent.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the pan! Serve these bars in pretty individual jars layered with vegan yogurt or coconut cream, turn them into an ice cream sandwich filling, or crumble them over smoothie bowls for added texture and flavor. Their versatility means you can get playful and surprise your friends with your culinary creativity.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. They hold their texture and flavor beautifully, making them an ideal grab-and-go snack or dessert throughout the week.

Freezing

Want to enjoy these tasty bars later? Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze well for up to three months. When craving a treat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

If you prefer warm bars, reheat gently in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes or pop a bar in the microwave for 20-30 seconds. This warms the filling nicely and revives the buttery crumble without drying it out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen blueberries work beautifully in the Blueberry Pie Bars with Oatmeal Crumble (Vegan & Gluten-Free) Recipe and can often be more convenient year-round. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before cooking the filling to avoid extra moisture.

Is this recipe nut-free?

The recipe itself is nut-free if you use almond extract cautiously or substitute it with vanilla extract. The almond extract adds a lovely flavor, but you can skip it or replace it for nut allergy safety.

Can I substitute the oats with another grain?

Oats provide a special texture and flavor to this recipe, but if needed, quinoa flakes or crushed gluten-free cereal could be tried. Keep in mind the texture and taste might differ slightly from the original delightful oat crumble.

What is the best way to cut the bars cleanly?

Chilling the bars before cutting is key to clean slices. Use a sharp knife and wipe it between cuts to prevent sticking. This helps you achieve neat, beautiful bars perfect for serving.

Are these bars suitable for kids?

Definitely! These Blueberry Pie Bars with Oatmeal Crumble (Vegan & Gluten-Free) Recipe are naturally sweetened and wholesome, making them a great kid-friendly treat that parents can feel good about serving.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a dessert that’s both comforting and health-conscious, this Blueberry Pie Bars with Oatmeal Crumble (Vegan & Gluten-Free) Recipe is your new go-to. It combines the best of fresh fruit, wholesome grains, and a crumble topping that’s downright addictive. Whether for a family gathering, potluck, or simply a special treat, these bars bring joy to every occasion. Give them a try — I promise they will quickly become a cherished favorite in your kitchen!