As the summer sun begins to set and the warm days hint at the arrival of fall, there’s a certain magic in the air that calls for something sweet and comforting. Enter the Plum Crumble Bars—a delightful treat that’s perfect for cozy afternoons or festive gatherings. Whether you’re sitting on the porch with a cup of coffee or celebrating a family reunion, these bars promise to be a hit.
Inspired by traditional fruit crumbles that have graced tables for generations, this recipe takes the classic combination of plums and buttery crumble and transforms it into portable squares of goodness. Not only are they easy to prepare, but the rich flavors, combined with their inviting aroma, make these bars a unique dessert you’ll want to share—perfect for any occasion!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to fall in love with these Plum Crumble Bars, and here are just a few:
- Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch in no time.
- Flavorful Layers: The combination of sweet, juicy plums with a crumbly topping creates a symphony of flavors in every bite.
- Customizable: Want to add a touch of spice or swap out fruits? The options are endless!
- Perfect for Sharing: These bars are great for potlucks, picnics, or as a sweet treat after dinner.
What Does the Recipe Taste Like?
Imagine sinking your teeth into these bars—each bite offers a tantalizing contrast between the tartness of the plums and the sweet, buttery crumble. The plums lend a juicy, fruity burst, while the golden topping provides a satisfying crunch. A sprinkle of cinnamon adds warmth and depth, making these bars the ideal treat, whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or at room temperature with a cup of tea.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients
- Fresh Plums (4 cups, sliced): The star of the show! Plums bring a sweet-tart flavor and juicy texture that’s refreshing and vibrant.
- Granulated Sugar (¾ cup): Sweetens both the fruit filling and the crumble, balancing the tartness of the plums.
- All-Purpose Flour (2 cups): Essential for creating the crumble topping, giving it structure and texture.
- Oats (1 cup): Adds heartiness and a chewy texture to the crumble, making it fulfilling and satisfying.
- Butter (1 cup, softened): Provides richness and helps bind the crumble together, contributing to its deliciously buttery flavor.
- Ground Cinnamon (1 tsp): Adds warmth and depth of flavor that complements the sweetness of the plums.
- Baking Powder (½ tsp): Helps to aerate the crumble, ensuring it’s light and crispy.
- Salt (¼ tsp): Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- Lemon Juice (1 tbsp): Brightens the flavors of the plums while preventing them from browning.
Optional Additions
If you’d like to put your own spin on these bars, consider the following variations:
- For a nutty flavor, add ½ cup of chopped nuts such as almonds or walnuts to the crumble topping.
- Replace some of the plums with other fruits like peaches or cherries for a different fruit experience.
- For a spicier kick, mix in a pinch of ground ginger or nutmeg into the crumble.
Special Garnishes
To elevate your Plum Crumble Bars just a bit more, consider garnishing with:
- Powdered Sugar: A light dusting on top for a sweet finish.
- Fresh Mint: Adds a pop of color and fresh flavor that pairs well with the fruit.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: For serving, it creates a delightful contrast with the warm bars.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s get started on making these delicious Plum Crumble Bars!
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Prepare the Plums: Wash, pit, and slice the plums. In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced plums with ¼ cup of sugar and lemon juice. Stir gently to coat the plums evenly and let them sit while you prepare the crumble.
- Make the Crumble: In another bowl, mix together the flour, oats, remaining sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Add the softened butter and mix with your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Layer the Ingredients: Press about two-thirds of the crumble mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a crust. Spread the plum mixture evenly over the crust. Then sprinkle the remaining crumble on top of the plums.
- Bake: Place the assembled pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the plums are bubbly.
- Cool: Once baked, remove from the oven and allow to cool in the pan on a wire rack. It’s important to let it cool completely before cutting into bars.
- Serve: Slice into squares, serve with a garnish of powdered sugar or a scoop of ice cream if desired.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to mix up the fruit combinations! If you can’t find plums, peaches or cherries can add a delightful twist to this recipe. For a gluten-free option, you can substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free blend, and use certified gluten-free oats.
Serving and Storage Tips
These bars are incredibly versatile! They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making them perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them for up to three months—simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Helpful Tips
For the best results when making your Plum Crumble Bars, keep these tips in mind:
- Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing into the crumble.
- Choosing ripe, juicy plums is key to enhancing the flavor of the bars.
- Don’t skip the cooling step! It helps the bars hold their shape when cut.
Special Equipment
While this recipe doesn’t require any specialized equipment, here are a few kitchen tools that can make your baking experience smoother:
- Mixing Bowls: Having multiple sizes helps keep your ingredients organized.
- Spatula: Ideal for mixing and spreading the crumble and plum mixture.
- Baking Dish (9×13 inch): Essential for making the bars; ensure it’s the right size for even baking.
- Paring Knife: Perfect for slicing the plums quickly and cleanly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen plums instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before using them in the recipe to prevent a soggy bottom.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the top is golden brown, and you can see the filling bubbling around the edges. A toothpick inserted into the crumble should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make them a day in advance and store them covered at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
What other fruits can I use in place of plums?
You can use peaches, strawberries, cherries, or any combination of berries. Just adjust the sugar according to the sweetness of the fruit you choose!
Conclusion
With their buttery crumble and juicy fruit filling, Plum Crumble Bars are not just a dessert; they’re a delightful experience that brings people together. These bars are easy to bake and even easier to share, making them a must-try for any gathering. Don’t hesitate to put your spin on this recipe—every baker should have their unique touch!
We’d love to hear your thoughts! Have you made these bars or adapted the recipe in some way? Share your experiences and suggestions in the comments below so that others can enjoy this mouthwatering treat as well!
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Irresistible Plum Crumble Bars Delightful Easy Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
Indulge in easy delightful Plum Crumble Bars that are irresistible Perfect for any occasion these treats will satisfy your sweet cravings
Ingredients
- Fresh Plums (4 cups, sliced)
- Granulated Sugar (¾ cup)
- All-Purpose Flour (2 cups)
- Oats (1 cup)
- Butter (1 cup, softened)
- Ground Cinnamon (1 tsp)
- Baking Powder (½ tsp)
- Salt (¼ tsp)
- Lemon Juice (1 tbsp)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced plums with ¼ cup of sugar and lemon juice. Stir gently and let them sit.
- In another bowl, mix together the flour, oats, remaining sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Add the softened butter and mix until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press about two-thirds of the crumble mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan. Spread the plum mixture evenly over the crust. Sprinkle the remaining crumble on top.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the plums are bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool in the pan on a wire rack.
- Slice into squares and serve with a garnish of powdered sugar or a scoop of ice cream if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 180 calories
- Sugar: 10g
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g