Blackberry Almond Bars: The Perfect Blend of Fruit and Nut
Each bite blends tangy berries with a crisp almond streusel for a balanced treat.
Blackberry almond bars capture the essence of summer in every bite: sweet bursting blackberries, chewy oats, and a toasty crunch of almonds, all nestled in a delicious crumbly base. This recipe goes beyond typical jam bars by layering fresh blackberries atop a fragrant almond-laced streusel and shortbread crust, creating a treat that’s as wonderful for breakfast as it is for dessert.
Why You’ll Love These Bars
- Fresh fruit flavor: Juicy blackberries provide brightness that balances the rich buttery base.
- Crispy almond streusel: Almonds add texture and a subtle marzipan note.
- Versatility: These bars are perfect for picnics, bake sales, or as a sophisticated dessert with coffee or tea.
- Simple technique: Minimal prep and common ingredients make these accessible for any home baker.
Ingredient Overview
This recipe uses straightforward ingredients for maximum flavor and structure. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Old-fashioned rolled oats – For a toothsome base and robust crumb.
- All-purpose flour – Gives body and structure to both the crust and topping.
- Sliced almonds – Toasted and distributed throughout, they bring crunch and rich flavor.
- Granulated and brown sugar – A blend for sweetness and moisture.
- Baking powder and baking soda – Keep the base light.
- Fine salt – Balances the sweetness.
- Cinnamon – Adds gentle warmth.
- Cold unsalted butter – Key for a flaky, crisp base and topping.
- Seedless blackberry jam – Serves as the anchor of fruit flavor, spread in a thin layer.
- Fresh blackberries – Burst atop the jam for a distinctly fresh texture.
- Lemon zest and juice – Heightens fruit brightness and balances richness.
- Vanilla & almond extracts – Amplify the nutty, aromatic profile.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven and Gather Equipment
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Use a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan or a 9×13-inch baking pan for slightly thicker bars.
- Line with parchment for easy removal.
2. Make the Streusel Base
In a large bowl, combine oats, flour, sliced almonds, both sugars, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Mix thoroughly.
Add cold cubed butter, and with a pastry blender or fingertips, work it in until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The butter should remain slightly chunky for the best texture.
- Reserve 1½ cups of crumb mixture for the topping—keep this chilled.
- Press the remaining mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan.
3. Partial Bake for Crispness
Bake the pressed crust for 10 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through so it browns evenly. Remove and let cool briefly while you make the blackberry filling.
4. Prepare Blackberry Layer
In a small saucepan, gently heat the blackberry jam with lemon zest and juice until smooth and pourable. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and almond extracts.
- Spread the warm jam evenly over the baked crust.
- Arrange fresh blackberries over the jam layer, cutting berries in half if especially large for even distribution.
5. Add the Almond Streusel Topping
Scatter the reserved chilled crumb mixture over the berry layer, covering evenly but leaving some berries exposed for visual appeal and extra texture.
6. Final Bake
- Bake for 20–22 minutes on the middle rack, rotating once for even browning.
- Streusel should be golden and fruit bubbling at the edges.
What others are reading
7. Cool, Slice, and Serve
- Allow bars to cool at least 30 minutes in the pan for clean slicing.
- Cut into squares or rectangles.
- Optional: Serve with vanilla ice cream for extra richness.
Ingredient Table
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Old-fashioned oats | 1½ cups | Base & topping structure |
| All-purpose flour | 1½ cups | Base, body |
| Sliced almonds | ½ cup | Crunch, flavor |
| Granulated sugar | ¾ cup | Sweetness |
| Brown sugar | ¾ cup | Moisture, depth |
| Baking powder | 1 tsp | Lift |
| Baking soda | ½ tsp | Lift |
| Fine salt | ½ tsp | Balance |
| Cinnamon | ½ tsp | Warmth |
| Butter (cold) | 1 cup | Richness, tenderness |
| Seedless blackberry jam | 6 oz | Fruit flavor |
| Lemon zest | 1 small lemon | Brightness |
| Lemon juice | ½ small lemon | Acidity |
| Vanilla extract | ¾ tsp | Flavor |
| Almond extract | ½ tsp | Flavor depth |
| Fresh blackberries | 12 oz | Texture, tartness |
Tips for Perfect Bars
- Use cold butter: This is essential for a crisp crumb texture. Warm butter will make the base greasy and less flaky.
- Chill reserved topping: Refrigerating the reserved streusel prevents it from melting too quickly when baked, resulting in better contrast.
- Layer thoughtfully: Don’t over-fill with jam; aim for a modest layer to avoid soggy bars.
- Let bars cool: Cutting too soon can result in crumbling.
- Customize fruit: Raspberries or blueberries work well, but blackberries offer bold flavor and vibrant color.
Variations and Substitutions
- Make it gluten-free: Substitute with a gluten-free flour blend and certified gluten-free oats.
- Vegan option: Use plant-based butter alternatives and maple syrup or agave for depth.
- Other nuts: Hazelnuts or pecans bring a different, delicious twist.
- Less sugar: Reduce brown sugar or use coconut sugar for a slightly healthier option.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are wonderful straight from the pan, but here are some ideas to make serving extra special:
- Pair with vanilla ice cream, letting the cream melt into warm bars.
- Serve with whipped cream and a sprig of mint for a dinner party dessert.
- Pack in lunch boxes for a sweet midday treat.
Nutrition Overview (per bar approx.)
| Calories | Carbs (g) | Fat (g) | Protein (g) | Fiber (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 210 | 27 | 10 | 3 | 2 |
Values will vary based on pan size and individual slice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use frozen blackberries?
A: Yes, thaw frozen blackberries and drain excess liquid before placing on the jam layer to avoid soggy bars.
Q: How do I store blackberry almond bars?
A: Store cooled bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze in layers separated by parchment for up to 1 month.
Q: Can I use raspberry or blueberry jam?
A: Absolutely! Any berry jam works well, though blackberry offers distinct tartness and bold flavor.
Q: Why is almond extract important?
A: Almond extract concentrates the nutty flavor, providing a background note that pairs beautifully with blackberries.
Expert Tips: Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Soggy bars? Make sure the jam layer is thin and the crust is prebaked as directed.
- Crumbly topping? Ensure butter is fully incorporated and topping is pressed lightly for cohesion.
- Over-browning: Cover with foil if topping browns too quickly during final bake.
More Ways to Elevate Your Bars
- Roast the almonds first for even deeper flavor.
- Lemon zest in streusel brings pop and balance.
- Drizzle with melted white chocolate once cooled for a bakery-style presentation.
Conclusion: Why Blackberry Almond Bars Are a Summer Classic
Blackberry almond bars represent an ideal marriage of crisp streusel, tart berries, and toasty nuts. Their straightforward preparation—no special equipment or endless steps—makes them approachable for bakers of all skill levels. Whether for a special occasion or a simple snack, these bars offer vivid flavor, gorgeous texture, and a crowd-pleasing finish. With easy substitution options, this recipe can suit every palate or dietary need.
Recipe Card: Quick Reference
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Bake time: 30 minutes
- Total yield: 20 bars
Ready to bake, share, and savor? These blackberry almond bars will be the highlight of your next get-together—or a delightful treat just for you!
References
- https://www.simplyscratch.com/blackberry-almond-streusel-bars/
- https://goodmoodbrainfood.com/2022/08/blackberry-almond-bars/
- https://www.recipegirl.com/blackberry-jam-shortbread-bars/
- https://www.bakedambrosia.com/healthy-blackberry-crumble-bars-gluten-free-vegan/
- https://www.wifemamafoodie.com/blackberry-oat-bars/
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