Easy Blueberry Crumble Bars Recipe 2025

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If you’re searching for a sweet treat that brings together the comforting flavors of home baking with the fresh taste of summer berries, then these Blueberry Crumble Bars are exactly what you need. Blueberry Crumble Bars are one of those nostalgic desserts that instantly remind you of family gatherings, picnics in the park, or simply enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of coffee and a homemade slice of something delicious. These Blueberry Crumble Bars strike the perfect balance between being easy enough for beginner bakers and impressive enough to share at a potluck or special occasion.

What makes Blueberry Crumble Bars so irresistible is the combination of a buttery, crumbly crust and topping, paired with a juicy layer of fresh or frozen blueberries. When baked, the blueberries burst into a sweet, slightly tangy filling that soaks into the golden crust, creating a bar that’s rich, fruity, and delightfully crumbly all at once. These Blueberry Crumble Bars can be served warm out of the oven, cooled to room temperature, or even chilled for a firmer bite — making them a versatile dessert option for any season.

Blueberry Crumble Bars are also a wonderful way to use up an abundance of blueberries during peak season. Whether you pick them fresh from a local farm or grab a bag of frozen berries from the store, these Blueberry Crumble Bars are a fantastic way to highlight that burst of blueberry goodness in a simple, rustic dessert. Many home bakers love that Blueberry Crumble Bars require no special equipment, no complicated techniques, and minimal clean-up, yet deliver big on flavor and visual appeal.

This recipe for Blueberry Crumble Bars has been crafted with American home bakers in mind. You’ll find familiar pantry staples, clear step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips to ensure your Blueberry Crumble Bars turn out perfectly every time. Plus, these Blueberry Crumble Bars can easily be adapted — try adding a touch of lemon zest for brightness, or a sprinkle of cinnamon in the crumble for extra warmth.

So whether you’re baking a batch of Blueberry Crumble Bars for a weekend treat, a picnic with friends, or as a thoughtful homemade gift, these bars are guaranteed to become a favorite in your dessert rotation. Ready to get started? Let’s gather everything you’ll need to make these mouthwatering Blueberry Crumble Bars right in your own kitchen.

What You’ll Need

Creating the perfect batch of Blueberry Crumble Bars doesn’t require any fancy gadgets or hard-to-find ingredients — in fact, the beauty of these Blueberry Crumble Bars is just how simple and accessible they are. To make sure your Blueberry Crumble Bars turn out buttery, crumbly, and bursting with blueberry flavor, here’s exactly what you’ll need to have on hand.

For the crust and crumble topping:

2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour – The foundation of your Blueberry Crumble Bars’ base and topping, giving them structure and a tender bite.
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar – Adds the perfect amount of sweetness to complement the tartness of the blueberries.
1 cup (2 sticks, 226g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed – Cold butter is key to getting that crumbly texture that makes Blueberry Crumble Bars so irresistible.
1/2 teaspoon baking powder – Helps create a slightly lighter texture in the crust.
1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of your Blueberry Crumble Bars.
1 large egg – Adds moisture and helps bind the crumble together for the perfect consistency.

For the blueberry filling:

2 1/2 cups (350g) fresh or frozen blueberries – The star ingredient of your Blueberry Crumble Bars. Fresh is best in summer, but frozen works wonderfully all year round.
1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar – Sweetens the berries just enough without overpowering their natural flavor.
2 teaspoons cornstarch – Thickens the blueberry layer, so your Blueberry Crumble Bars hold together neatly when sliced.
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice (optional) – Adds a bright note that makes the blueberry flavor pop even more.

Basic kitchen tools you’ll need:

Mixing bowls for the dry ingredients and the filling.
A pastry cutter or fork to cut the butter into the flour mixture.
A 9×13 inch baking dish, lined with parchment paper for easy removal.
A spatula or spoon for spreading the filling and pressing the crust.

When gathering your ingredients for Blueberry Crumble Bars, make sure your butter is cold and your berries are fresh or properly thawed if frozen. Having everything pre-measured and ready will make the baking process smooth and enjoyable.

Blueberry Crumble Bars don’t rely on any complicated techniques, so even if you’re not an experienced baker, you’ll love how stress-free these bars are to prepare. Once you’ve gathered everything, you’re only a few steps away from a warm, comforting batch of Blueberry Crumble Bars that will make your kitchen smell amazing.

Try our classic Bright & Tangy Lemon Meringue Cupcakes for another berry-filled treat!

How to Make Blueberry Crumble Bars (Full Measurements Included)

Now that you have everything you need to make your Blueberry Crumble Bars, it’s time to bring this delicious recipe to life. Making Blueberry Crumble Bars is straightforward, but a few simple steps will ensure your bars come out perfectly every time. Here’s exactly how to make these homemade Blueberry Crumble Bars from scratch — complete with all measurements and tips to guide you along the way.

Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang on the sides. This makes it much easier to lift your Blueberry Crumble Bars out of the pan once they’re baked and cooled.

Step 2: Make the Crust and Crumble Topping
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:

2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

Cut in 1 cup (2 sticks, 226g) cold, cubed unsalted butter using a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingers. Work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces of butter throughout. Next, add 1 large egg and mix until the dough starts to come together.

Press about two-thirds of this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This forms the base of your Blueberry Crumble Bars.

Step 3: Prepare the Blueberry Filling
In another bowl, gently combine:

2 1/2 cups (350g) fresh or frozen blueberries
1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
2 teaspoons cornstarch
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice (optional)

Toss until the blueberries are well coated and the cornstarch is evenly distributed. The cornstarch helps thicken the filling as the Blueberry Crumble Bars bake.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Spread the blueberry filling evenly over the crust layer in the pan. Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture over the top, covering the blueberries generously — this creates that signature crumbly topping that makes Blueberry Crumble Bars so tempting.

Bake your Blueberry Crumble Bars for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden brown and you see the blueberry filling bubbling up around the edges.

Step 5: Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove the Blueberry Crumble Bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan. This helps the bars set, making them easier to slice neatly. Once cool, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang, transfer to a cutting board, and slice into squares or rectangles.

And there you have it — beautiful, homemade Blueberry Crumble Bars that are buttery, fruity, and perfect for sharing. Now, let’s make sure you know how to store and serve them so every bite stays fresh and delicious.

Serving and Storage Tips

After baking a delicious tray of Blueberry Crumble Bars, you’ll want to serve and store them in a way that keeps them as tasty as possible. The good news is that Blueberry Crumble Bars are incredibly flexible — you can enjoy them warm, at room temperature, or chilled, and they store wonderfully for days, making them an ideal make-ahead dessert.

How to Serve Blueberry Crumble Bars
Blueberry Crumble Bars can be served on their own as a quick snack or dessert. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. For brunch gatherings, try serving your Blueberry Crumble Bars alongside fresh fruit and coffee for a simple yet impressive spread.

These Blueberry Crumble Bars also make a wonderful addition to lunchboxes or picnic baskets. Because they hold their shape well and don’t require utensils to eat, they’re a fuss-free sweet treat that everyone loves.

If you like your Blueberry Crumble Bars warm, pop a piece in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds to soften the crumble and warm the blueberry layer slightly — it’s like enjoying them fresh from the oven all over again!

How to Store Blueberry Crumble Bars
To keep your Blueberry Crumble Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. They’ll stay good at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like them to last longer, refrigerate your Blueberry Crumble Bars — they’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 5–7 days.

If you want to keep Blueberry Crumble Bars on hand for even longer, freezing is a great option. Once the bars have cooled completely, slice them and wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap or parchment paper. Place the wrapped bars in an airtight freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw a bar at room temperature or warm it gently in the microwave.

Extra Tips for Storing Blueberry Crumble Bars

Always let your Blueberry Crumble Bars cool completely before storing to avoid excess moisture build-up, which can make the crumble soggy.
If stacking bars in a container, place a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
When serving Blueberry Crumble Bars at an event or picnic, keep them out of direct sunlight to maintain their structure and freshness.

With these easy serving and storage tips, your Blueberry Crumble Bars will taste just as amazing on day three as they did the moment they came out of the oven. Next up, let’s explore some common mistakes to avoid so your Blueberry Crumble Bars turn out perfectly every single time!

Mistakes to Avoid

When it comes to baking Blueberry Crumble Bars, a few simple missteps can mean the difference between a perfect batch and a disappointing dessert. The good news is that these common mistakes are easy to avoid once you know what to look out for. By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll ensure your Blueberry Crumble Bars always turn out golden, crumbly, and bursting with juicy blueberry goodness.

Using warm or soft butter:
One of the most common mistakes when making Blueberry Crumble Bars is using butter that’s too soft. Cold, cubed butter is key for creating that signature crumbly texture in the crust and topping. If your butter is too warm, your crumble layer can turn greasy and dense instead of light and crumbly. Always start with butter straight from the fridge, and work quickly when cutting it into the flour mixture.

Skipping parchment paper:
Trying to remove Blueberry Crumble Bars from the pan without parchment paper can lead to broken or stuck bars. Lining your pan with parchment not only makes cleanup easier but also allows you to lift out the entire slab once cooled for perfect slicing. Always use enough parchment to create an overhang on the sides.

Not properly thickening the blueberry layer:
Another pitfall is forgetting to add cornstarch to the blueberry filling. Cornstarch thickens the blueberry juices as the Blueberry Crumble Bars bake, preventing the bars from turning soggy. Without it, you may end up with a runny filling that doesn’t set properly. Be sure to toss the blueberries well with cornstarch for the best texture.

Using only frozen berries without thawing:
Frozen blueberries work wonderfully for Blueberry Crumble Bars, but if you toss them in frozen without thawing and draining excess liquid, your bars can come out watery. Let frozen berries thaw slightly, drain off extra liquid, and pat them dry with a paper towel before adding to the filling.

Overbaking or underbaking:
Timing is everything when baking Blueberry Crumble Bars. Pulling the bars too early can leave the crust doughy and the topping pale. Overbaking, on the other hand, can dry out the crumbly topping and make the blueberries lose their fresh, juicy taste. Keep a close eye during the last 5–10 minutes of baking — the topping should be lightly golden and the blueberry filling should bubble around the edges.

Not cooling completely before slicing:
It can be tempting to cut into your Blueberry Crumble Bars while they’re still warm, but this often results in messy slices that don’t hold together. For neat, bakery-style squares, always let your Blueberry Crumble Bars cool completely in the pan. This lets the filling set properly and makes slicing much easier.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll be rewarded with Blueberry Crumble Bars that are crumbly, buttery, and perfectly filled with sweet blueberries every single time. Now that you know what not to do, let’s look at some extra tips and clever tricks to make your Blueberry Crumble Bars even better!

Tips and Tricks

Whether you’re making Blueberry Crumble Bars for the first time or you’ve already baked them dozens of times, there are always a few handy tricks that can take your bars from good to unforgettable. These tips will help you customize, simplify, and elevate your Blueberry Crumble Bars, so they fit perfectly into your baking routine and impress every time.

Use a mix of berries for a twist:
While classic Blueberry Crumble Bars are always a hit, don’t be afraid to experiment. Try mixing in a handful of raspberries or blackberries with your blueberries for an extra layer of flavor and a beautiful burst of color. This is a great way to use up leftover berries you might have in your fridge or freezer.

Add zest for brightness:
A touch of citrus can really make the blueberry flavor shine. Add a teaspoon or two of fresh lemon or orange zest to your blueberry filling to brighten the flavor of your Blueberry Crumble Bars without adding more liquid.

Toast the crumble topping:
If you love extra crunch, you can lightly toast some of the crumble topping before sprinkling it on top. This adds a deeper, nuttier flavor to your Blueberry Crumble Bars. Simply spread a portion of the crumble mixture on a baking sheet and bake for a few minutes until lightly golden, then sprinkle it over the filling before baking the bars.

Chill the dough if needed:
On hot days, your butter may soften too quickly as you mix your crumble. If you notice the mixture becoming greasy or too soft, pop the bowl in the fridge for 10–15 minutes before pressing it into the pan. Keeping the butter cold helps achieve that perfect crumbly texture for your Blueberry Crumble Bars.

Line the pan properly:
For the cleanest slices, always line your pan with parchment paper, leaving enough overhang to lift out the bars. Once baked and cooled, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat, bakery-style Blueberry Crumble Bars every time.

Double the batch for a crowd:
Blueberry Crumble Bars are a guaranteed hit at gatherings, so don’t be afraid to double the recipe. Bake in a larger pan or in two batches and you’ll have plenty to share at parties, bake sales, or family get-togethers.

Serve them your way:
Blueberry Crumble Bars are delicious as-is, but you can dress them up too. Serve warm bars with vanilla ice cream for dessert, or drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for extra sweetness.

Store smartly for best freshness:
When storing Blueberry Crumble Bars, keep layers separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking. For frozen bars, thaw them slowly at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.

By following these tips and tricks, your Blueberry Crumble Bars will turn out consistently delicious — and you’ll have fun putting your own creative spin on this classic treat each time you bake.

Suggestions

Blueberry Crumble Bars are beloved for their simplicity, but one of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize. Once you’ve mastered the basic Blueberry Crumble Bars recipe, you can get creative and adapt it to suit your taste, the season, or whatever you have on hand in your kitchen. Here are some of my favorite suggestions to inspire your next batch of Blueberry Crumble Bars and keep this classic treat feeling fresh and new every time.

Switch up the fruit:
While blueberries are the star in Blueberry Crumble Bars, they’re not your only option. Try swapping half the blueberries for raspberries, blackberries, or chopped strawberries for a mixed berry crumble bar. In fall, you can add chopped apples or pears along with the blueberries for a sweet twist that feels cozy and seasonal.

Add nuts for crunch:
For extra texture, sprinkle a handful of chopped nuts — like walnuts, pecans, or almonds — into the crumble topping before baking. The nuts toast up nicely in the oven and add a lovely crunch that pairs perfectly with the juicy blueberry filling. If you’re making Blueberry Crumble Bars for a gathering, this small touch can make them feel extra special.

Try a touch of spice:
Warm spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can add depth to your Blueberry Crumble Bars. Try adding half a teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the crust and crumble mixture for a subtle, cozy flavor that complements the blueberries beautifully.

Make them gluten-free:
If you or your guests follow a gluten-free diet, Blueberry Crumble Bars can easily be adapted. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a good quality 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure your other ingredients are certified gluten-free too, and you’ll have delicious gluten-free Blueberry Crumble Bars everyone can enjoy.

Use a drizzle or glaze:
For an extra touch of sweetness and a pretty finish, drizzle your cooled Blueberry Crumble Bars with a simple glaze. Just whisk together powdered sugar and a bit of milk until smooth, then drizzle it over the cut bars. This works especially well if you’re serving Blueberry Crumble Bars at brunch or for a special occasion.

Serve as a dessert base:
You can even serve Blueberry Crumble Bars warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a quick dessert that feels like blueberry pie but with half the effort. They’re also delicious with a scoop of Greek yogurt for a sweet snack.

Give as gifts:
Blueberry Crumble Bars make thoughtful homemade gifts. Wrap them in parchment, tie with twine, and share with neighbors, friends, or family. They’re perfect for bake sales, lunchboxes, or a sweet treat to brighten someone’s day.

With these suggestions, your Blueberry Crumble Bars can be as classic or creative as you like. Once you’ve tried a few variations, you may find yourself making this recipe on repeat all year long. Next, let’s answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Blueberry Crumble Bars so you can bake with confidence.

FAQ

It’s natural to have questions when baking Blueberry Crumble Bars, especially if you’re making them for the first time. To help you feel confident every step of the way, here are some of the most common questions home bakers ask about Blueberry Crumble Bars — along with clear answers and helpful advice.

Can I use frozen blueberries for Blueberry Crumble Bars?
Absolutely! Frozen blueberries work just as well as fresh in Blueberry Crumble Bars. Just remember to thaw them slightly and drain off any excess liquid before using, to prevent the filling from becoming too watery. If you skip this step, your Blueberry Crumble Bars may not hold their shape as nicely.

How do I know when Blueberry Crumble Bars are done baking?
Blueberry Crumble Bars are ready when the crumb topping is lightly golden and you can see the blueberry filling bubbling around the edges. This usually takes about 40–45 minutes in a 375°F oven. If your topping isn’t golden enough, bake for an additional 5 minutes while keeping an eye on it to avoid overbaking.

Do I need to refrigerate Blueberry Crumble Bars?
Blueberry Crumble Bars can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days in an airtight container. If you want them to last longer, store your Blueberry Crumble Bars in the refrigerator for up to a week. They also freeze beautifully — wrap each bar individually for easy grab-and-go treats.

Can I make Blueberry Crumble Bars ahead of time?
Yes! Blueberry Crumble Bars are a fantastic make-ahead dessert. You can bake them a day or two in advance and store them in an airtight container until ready to serve. Many people say Blueberry Crumble Bars taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Why is my crumble topping not crumbly?
If your topping comes out dense or greasy instead of crumbly, it’s likely your butter was too warm when mixing. Always use cold, cubed butter straight from the fridge to create the right texture for your Blueberry Crumble Bars.

Can I double the Blueberry Crumble Bars recipe?
Definitely. If you’re feeding a crowd or want extra for later, double the recipe and bake in a larger pan, or make two separate pans of Blueberry Crumble Bars. They’re perfect for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings.

What’s the best way to cut Blueberry Crumble Bars cleanly?
For neat, bakery-style squares, let your Blueberry Crumble Bars cool completely before cutting. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between slices for the best results.

Conclusion

Blueberry Crumble Bars are more than just a sweet treat — they’re a celebration of simple baking, fresh ingredients, and the comfort of homemade goodness. Whether you bake these Blueberry Crumble Bars for your family on a quiet weekend, bring a tray to a picnic, or share them at a bake sale, one thing is certain: they never fail to bring a smile to anyone who tastes them.

One of the best things about Blueberry Crumble Bars is how adaptable they are. You can keep them classic with just blueberries or get creative with mix-ins like other berries, spices, or a zesty citrus twist. They’re easy enough to whip up on a busy weeknight and special enough to serve at brunch or as a casual dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Plus, Blueberry Crumble Bars hold up so well in the fridge or freezer, making them a smart choice for busy households or those who love to bake ahead.

When you bite into a Blueberry Crumble Bar, you get that satisfying mix of textures — a buttery, tender crust, a juicy layer of blueberries that’s sweet yet just tart enough, and a golden, crumbly topping that ties it all together. It’s the kind of dessert that feels familiar but never boring, comforting yet fresh, and always worth a second (or third) square.

If you’re new to baking, these Blueberry Crumble Bars are a great place to start. They don’t require any complicated techniques or fancy equipment, just a handful of pantry staples, some fresh or frozen blueberries, and a little bit of love. Even seasoned bakers come back to Blueberry Crumble Bars again and again because they’re reliable, crowd-pleasing, and endlessly customizable.

So next time you spot fresh blueberries at the grocery store or have some waiting in your freezer, remember these Blueberry Crumble Bars. With just a few simple steps, you can transform everyday ingredients into a tray of delicious homemade bars that are sure to impress. Don’t forget to save this recipe, share it with friends and family, and enjoy every crumbly, juicy bite.

Thank you for baking along with me — I hope these Blueberry Crumble Bars become one of your favorite recipes to make and share. Happy baking, and may every bite bring you the simple joy that only a homemade Blueberry Crumble Bar can deliver!