With summer in full swing, I’m always on the lookout for ways to indulge in the season’s vibrant fruits. One of those magical moments happened when I first tasted these Gluten-Free Vegan Plum Crumble Bars. The delightful aroma of sweet plums simmering with warm spices fills the kitchen, instantly transporting me to a sun-soaked picnic.
The combination of a cozy oatmeal crust and a spiced plum jam creates a heavenly dessert that’s simple enough for weeknight baking but delicious enough to impress your friends. Perfect for those long summer afternoons, these bars offer a satisfying balance of sweet and tart that dances on your taste buds. Plus, whipping them up requires minimal fuss and ingredients!
Whether you’re enjoying them as a quick snack or serving them warm with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream, these bars are sure to become a staple in your summer dessert rotation. Join me as I walk you through creating these scrumptious treats!
Why are Gluten-Free Plum Crumble Bars so special?
Simplicity at Its Best: This recipe requires minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
Rich, Flavorful Filling: The luscious plum jam infused with warm spices creates a mouthwatering contrast to the hearty crumble.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Whether for family or a get-together, these bars appeal to both vegans and non-vegans alike.
Versatile Ingredients: Swap plums for other summer fruits like nectarines or peaches for a delightful twist.
Healthy Indulgence: Packed with fiber and natural sweetness, they’re a guilt-free dessert you can feel good about! Enjoy them warm or cold, and if you’re looking for more tasty treats, check out our seasonal dessert ideas for more inspiration!
Gluten-Free Plum Crumble Bars Ingredients
For the Crust and Crumble
- Gluten-Free Rolled Oats – Provides a hearty, chewy base for the crust and crumble; substitute with additional almond flour for a grain-free version.
- Almond Flour – Contributes to the structure and nutty flavor of the bars; swap it out for oat flour if you prefer a nut-free option.
- Coconut Oil – Binds the crust and crumble together while adding moisture; vegetable oil works as a suitable substitute.
- Maple Syrup – Sweetens the jam and complements the tartness of plums; honey can be used if you don’t need it to be strictly vegan.
- Vanilla Bean Powder – Enhances flavor complexity; feel free to use 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract instead.
- Cinnamon – Adds warmth and depth to the flavor; an essential element in balancing the sweetness of the dessert.
- Salt – Elevates all other flavors; a tiny pinch makes a big difference!
For the Plum Jam Filling
- Plums (or Pluots) – The star of this recipe, offering vibrant flavor when cooked down into a lovely jam; consider apricots, nectarines, or peaches as delightful substitutes.
Optional Add-ins
- Nuts or Coconut Flakes – For added crunch and texture in the crumble topping; these can make your bars even more satisfying!
How to Make Gluten-Free Plum Crumble Bars
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Make the Plum Jam: In a saucepan, combine chopped plums with maple syrup, vanilla, and cinnamon. Cook over medium heat until the plums break down and form a thick jam, about 15-20 minutes.
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Prepare the Oatmeal Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine gluten-free rolled oats, almond flour, coconut oil, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Mix until crumbly, resembling wet sand.
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Assemble the Bars: Press two-thirds of the oatmeal mixture into an 8-inch square pan to form the base. Spread the plum jam evenly on top, then sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over it.
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Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for around 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and fragrant.
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Cool and Serve: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature!
Optional: Serve with a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Gluten-Free Vegan Plum Crumble Bars are perfect for meal prep! You can make the plum jam (step 1) and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before assembling the bars. Additionally, you can prepare the oatmeal mixture (steps 2 and 3) and keep it in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the jam with the crust and crumble mixture and bake as directed in step 4. This not only saves time but ensures your bars are just as delicious when you serve them. Enjoy that scrumptious summer flavor without the fuss during busy weeknights!
How to Store and Freeze Gluten-Free Plum Crumble Bars
Fridge: Store your Gluten-Free Plum Crumble Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week to keep them fresh and delicious.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bars in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Thaw the bars in the fridge before serving for the best texture.
Room Temperature: If you’re planning to enjoy them within a few days, they can be kept at room temperature in a sealed container for up to 3 days, just ensure they’re in a cool spot away from heat.
Reheating: For a warm treat, reheat the bars in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or enjoy them cold straight from the fridge!
What to Serve with Gluten-Free Vegan Plum Crumble Bars?
These delightful bars are the perfect sweet ending to any meal, elevating your summer gatherings with their vibrant flavors.
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Dairy-Free Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture complements the tart plum jam beautifully, making each bite even more decadent.
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Fresh Berry Salad: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries enhances the sweetness while adding a refreshing touch to your dessert spread.
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Chilled Lemonade: The zesty citrus notes balance the sweetness of the bars, making for a delightful and thirst-quenching experience.
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Coconut Whipped Cream: Light yet rich, this topping brings a tropical flair to your crumble bars, creating a luscious pairing that’s irresistible.
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Pineapple Salsa: The sweet and savory notes of fresh pineapple and jalapeño create an unexpected contrast that will wow your guests.
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Herbal Iced Tea: A refreshing mint or hibiscus brew pairs excellently, cleansing your palate after the indulgence of the bars while keeping your summer vibe alive.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A touch of dark chocolate adds a luxurious twist, enhancing both the visual appeal and flavor of the crumble bars.
Enjoy these pairing ideas to transform your Gluten-Free Plum Crumble Bars into a full-fledged celebration of summer’s best flavors!
Gluten-Free Plum Crumble Bars Variations
Invite your culinary spirit to explore exciting twists on these delicious bars, making them your own!
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Stone Fruit Swap: Use diced apricots, peaches, or nectarines instead of plums for a delightful change in flavor.
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Grain-Free Delight: Replace gluten-free oats with more almond flour, adjusting the liquids slightly to maintain texture.
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Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or almonds to the crumble for a delightful extra crunch that balances the soft jam.
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Coconut Infusion: Mix in shredded coconut to the topping for a tropical twist that complements the sweetness of the plums.
Coconut brings a lovely chewiness that pairs beautifully with the soft filling. -
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a dash of nutmeg or ginger for an added warmth and depth of flavor in the jam.
This little twist can elevate your bars into an entirely new experience! -
Chocolate Drizzle: After cooling, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the bars for a decadent finish that satisfies any sweet tooth.
The rich chocolate creates a delightful contrast to the tart fruit. -
Syrup Variation: Swap maple syrup for agave or date syrup to customize the sweetness level to your liking.
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Herbal Infusion: Incorporate a touch of fresh rosemary or thyme into the jam for a unique savory dimension that surprises and delights.
These herbs can transform your bars into a gourmet treat, making them perfect for entertaining!
Expert Tips for Gluten-Free Plum Crumble Bars
Choose Ripe Plums: Use ripe plums for the best flavor; underripe plums may lead to a tart filling that lacks sweetness.
Maintain Texture: Don’t overmix the crumble mixture! Mix just until crumbly to ensure a delightful texture in your Gluten-Free Plum Crumble Bars.
Check Baking Time: Start checking your bars at 20 minutes; if the top isn’t golden brown yet, give it a few more minutes to bake and enhance the flavor.
Let Them Cool: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting to help them set properly and achieve clean edges.
Substitutions & Variations: Feel free to swap plums with other fruits like peaches, apricots, or nectarines for a delicious twist on these crumbly bars!
Gluten-Free Plum Crumble Bars Recipe FAQs
What kind of plums should I use for the filling?
Absolutely! Ripe plums are key for the best flavor and sweetness. Look for plums that are slightly soft to the touch and have a rich color. If plums are not available, you can substitute with other stone fruits like nectarines or peaches for a delightful variation.
How should I store my Gluten-Free Plum Crumble Bars?
To keep your bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. If you want to enjoy them longer, freeze them for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe bag or container. Just remember to thaw them in the fridge before serving for optimal texture and taste.
Can I reheat the bars after freezing?
Very! To reheat your frozen Gluten-Free Plum Crumble Bars, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight. For a warm treat, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Enjoy them warm or cold!
What if my crumble mixture is too crumbly?
No worries! If your crumble seems too crumbly, that can happen sometimes. Try adding a bit more melted coconut oil (1 tablespoon at a time) while mixing until you achieve a texture similar to wet sand. This will help the mixture hold together better when pressed into the pan.
Are these bars suitable for gluten sensitivities?
Absolutely! The Gluten-Free Plum Crumble Bars are made with gluten-free rolled oats and almond flour, making them a delicious option for anyone following a gluten-free diet. Just be sure to double-check that your ingredients are certified gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination.
Can I use this recipe for other fruits?
The more the merrier! While plums shine in this recipe, feel free to swap them out for other seasonal fruits such as apricots, nectarines, or even mixed berries. Just adjust the sweetness according to the tartness of the fruit you choose!
Irresistible Gluten-Free Plum Crumble Bars You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a saucepan, combine chopped plums with maple syrup, vanilla, and cinnamon. Cook over medium heat until the plums break down and form a thick jam, about 15-20 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine gluten-free rolled oats, almond flour, coconut oil, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Mix until crumbly, resembling wet sand.
- Press two-thirds of the oatmeal mixture into an 8-inch square pan to form the base. Spread the plum jam evenly on top, then sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over it.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for around 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and fragrant.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!