I'm Caitlin - culinary hostess, wellness retreat curator, and homebody at heart. This blog is where I share seasonal recipes, intentional living tips, and behind-the-scenes moments from my kitchen, travels, and retreats.
Here to make healthy living feel thoughtful and approachable - one recipe, ritual, or gathering at a time.
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There’s something about a chilled berry crumble bar that tastes like summer simplicity – with just the right touch of nostalgia. These Gluten-Free (and easily made Dairy-Free) Berry Crumble Bars strike the perfect balance between wholesome and indulgent, making them a go-to for brunch spreads, afternoon snacks, or even a not-too-sweet dessert. Made with a hearty oat and gluten free flour base, naturally sweetened with coconut sugar, and layered with a thick, jammy blend of fresh berries, this is the kind of recipe that tastes like you spent hours – but comes together with ease.
Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or hosting a laid-back breakfast with friends, this is the kind of recipe that disappears quickly and keeps people asking for more. And if you’re someone who loves a little practicality, here’s a good tip : these bars are even better straight from the fridge. That chilled texture makes them slice beautifully, hold their shape, and deliver bite after bite of delicious goodness!
Gluten-free, berry-packed, and brunch-approved. These crumble bars are one of those recipes that feel like a warm hug in every bite. I love making a batch ahead for weekend hosting or to keep in the fridge for a grab-and-go sweet treat.
Why You’ll Love These
Make-Ahead : perfect for prepping the night before (they only get better with time in the fridge)
Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Optional : easily modified to fit allergies / preferences
Versatile : use whatever berries you have on hand (even frozen)
Just Sweet Enough : serve with brunch or dress up as dessert (try it with vanilla bean ice cream)
Double Up : I highly recommend doubling the filling recipe – it’s the same recipe I use for homemade jam that is perfect for having on hand for toast, bagels and even homemade pop tarts!
These bars were born out of a love for all things simple, seasonal, and oh so satisfying! Keep reading for a few tips on how to get the crumble just right – and don’t forget to bookmark this for your next brunch menu or weekend bake.
Tips for Success
Don’t skip the chilling time – these truly are best after a long rest in the fridge.
Line your baking dish with parchment paper for easy lifting and clean slicing (bonus if it’s unbleached!)
Want extra texture? Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumble.
If your berries are extra juicy, add 1 tsp of cornstarch to the filling.
Serving Ideas
Pair with your favorite latte for an easy weekday or weekend treat.
Layer into a brunch board with fruit, muffins, and bite-sized quiche.
Warm a bar and top with ice cream (I love Ice Cream for Bears) for a quick dessert, and pair with a Late Harvest Zinfandel or rosé Champagne if you want something a bit lighter.
Pre-cut and package them individually for a quick grab-and-go snack!
Bringing joy to the table is what it’s all about. If you make these berry crumble bars, I’d love to hear how they turn out – snap a photo, tag me, or drop a comment below! Recipes like this one are meant to be shared, savored, and made on repeat.
Frequently Asked Questions
CAN I MAKE THESE BARS WITH FROZEN BERRIES?
Yes! Frozen berries work well here – no need to thaw them first. You just may need to modify the simmer time when making the filling.
ARE THESE BARS DAIRY-FREE AS WELL AS GLUTEN-FREE?
They can be! Simply substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative plant-based butter, and you’re good to go.
WHAT KIND OF GLUTEN-FREE FLOUR WORKS BEST FOR THESE BARS?
Definitely. These bars hold up beautifully in the refrigerator and are easy to slice and serve the next day (or even two days after making). To be honest, I think they taste even better if you let them refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving.
CAN I USE OTHER FRUITS INSTEAD OF BERRIES?
Absolutely. Stone fruits like peaches or plums are delicious – just be sure to cut them up into small bite-sized pieces before making the filling for the best results.
DO THESE BARS FREEZE WELL?
Yes – they’re freezer-friendly! Let them cool completely, slice them into squares, and store in an airtight container for up the 3 months. Simply thaw in the fridge overnight.
These gluten-free berry crumble bars are a deliciously simple make-ahead recipe perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Made with a wholesome oat crumble, naturally sweetened with coconut sugar, and layered with a thick, jammy blend of fresh or frozen berries, each bite is bursting with fruity flavor and cozy texture. They’re easy to prep in advance, slice beautifully when chilled, and can be enjoyed straight from the fridge or warmed up and topped with ice cream for an easy dessert. Perfect for entertaining or simply stocking the fridge with something nourishing and sweet.
Make the berry filling : In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the berries and coconut sugar. Bring to a gentle oil, then reduce the heat slightly and simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The fruit will break down in to a thick, jam-like consistency. Use a splatter guard or partially cover the pan to prevent any splashing.
Add flavor and texture : Once the berry mixture has thickened, remove it from the heat. Stir in the orange zest, vanilla extract, and chia seeds. Set aside to cool slightly.
Preheat and prepare the pan : Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch glass baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. This step is essential for clean slicing later.
Make the crumble : In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the oats, gluten-free flour, coconut sugar, and sea salt. Pour in the melted butter (or butter-infused olive oil) and stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
Assemble the bars : Press two-thirds of the crumble mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a firm base. Spread the berry filling over the crust, then sprinkle the remaining crumble on top, gently pressing it down.
Bake and chill : Bake for 50 to 55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight for best texture and flavor.
Caitlin is the creative visionary behind Fit to Entertain, where food, wellness, and intentional living come together. She's passionate about helping others bring joy to the table and live beautifully - one meal at a time.
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