Mulberry Crumb Bars

Mulberry Crumb Bars are a delicious dessert featuring a buttery shortbread crust, a juicy mulberry filling, and a golden crumb topping. These bars are the perfect way to enjoy fresh or frozen mulberries in a simple, easy-to-make treat. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoy them as a snack with a cup of tea.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Buttery and Crunchy – The shortbread crust and crumb topping add a rich, crisp texture.
• Juicy and Fruity – The mulberry filling is naturally sweet and tart, with a hint of lemon.
• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep time make this recipe beginner-friendly.
• Great for Any Occasion – Perfect for picnics, parties, or a comforting homemade dessert.
• Customizable – Works with other berries like raspberries, blackberries, or blueberries.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Crust & Crumb Topping:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Mulberry Filling:

• 3 cups fresh mulberries (or frozen, thawed)
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Make the Crust and Topping: In a bowl, mix the flour, melted butter, sugar, salt, and vanilla until crumbly. Press half the mixture into the prepared pan to form the crust.
3. Prepare the Filling: In another bowl, mix the mulberries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and lemon zest (if using) until well combined.
4. Assemble the Bars: Spread the mulberry mixture evenly over the crust. Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture on top.
5. Bake: Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
6. Cool and Serve: Let the bars cool completely before slicing. Serve warm or chilled, optionally with whipped cream or ice cream.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 bars
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Calories: 280 kcal per serving

Variations

• Mixed Berry Bars – Use a combination of mulberries, blackberries, and raspberries.
• Nutty Crumb Bars – Add chopped walnuts or almonds to the crumb topping for extra crunch.
• Gluten-Free Option – Use a gluten-free flour blend for the crust and topping.
• Spiced Bars – Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the flavor.
• Dairy-Free Version – Substitute butter with coconut oil or a plant-based alternative.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
• Reheating: Warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 minutes before serving.
• Freezing: Freeze individual bars in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

FAQs

Can I use frozen mulberries?

Yes! Thaw them first and drain excess liquid before mixing with the sugar and cornstarch.

How do I keep the crust from getting soggy?

Make sure to bake the bars until golden brown, and allow them to cool completely before cutting.

Can I substitute mulberries with another fruit?

Absolutely! Blackberries, raspberries, or blueberries work well in this recipe.

Do I need to remove mulberry stems?

It’s recommended to remove them for a smoother texture, but they are edible if left on.

Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?

Yes, you can slightly reduce the sugar in both the crust and filling for a less sweet version.

What can I serve with these bars?

They pair well with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of honey.

How do I get clean slices when cutting the bars?

Let them cool completely before slicing and use a sharp knife for clean edges.

Can I make this recipe in a smaller pan?

Yes, but you may need to adjust the baking time accordingly.

Why is my crumb topping too soft?

Make sure to use enough butter and bake the bars until the top is golden brown.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, simply use a larger pan and adjust the baking time as needed.

Conclusion

Mulberry Crumb Bars are a delightful balance of buttery shortbread, juicy mulberry filling, and golden crumb topping. Whether served warm with ice cream or enjoyed as a snack, these bars are a perfect way to use fresh or frozen mulberries. Try this easy recipe today for a delicious homemade treat!