Sour Cream Berry Crumble Bars

Name: Sour Cream Berry Crumble Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 16 bars
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed; 2 cups mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries); 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tbsp cornstarch

Highlighted under: Artisanal Baking Recipes

I can’t get enough of these Sour Cream Berry Crumble Bars! The combination of creamy sour cream and fresh berries creates a perfectly tangy and sweet dessert. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also fill my kitchen with the most delightful aroma while baking. I love how the crumble topping adds a satisfying crunch that perfectly contrasts the softness of the berry filling. These bars have become a favorite in my household and I’m excited to share the recipe with you!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-04T16:37:28.241Z

When I first experimented with these Sour Cream Berry Crumble Bars, I was surprised by how well the sour cream enhances the fruitiness of the berries. I opted for a mix of blueberries and raspberries which not only added color but also a delightful tartness that balanced out the sweet crumble. I used a blend of butter and a touch of vanilla extract in the crust to elevate the flavor.

One key tip I learned during this process is to allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them. This step is crucial; it helps the bars hold their shape and makes for cleaner slices. Trust me, the wait is worth it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Tangy sour cream enhances the berry flavor beautifully
Crispy crumble topping adds an irresistible texture
Perfectly portable for picnics or lunchboxes
Versatile recipe that works with any seasonal berries

Understanding the Crumble Topping

The crumble topping is a critical element of these bars, providing a delightful contrast to the creamy berry filling. It’s essential to mix the ingredients until they resemble coarse crumbs. Be careful not to over-mix; you want visible chunks of butter that will create a flaky texture as they bake. If you find your crumble is too dry, a splash of cold water can help bring the mixture together without making it sticky.

One of my favorite aspects of the crumble topping is its versatility. While the recipe calls for rolled oats for texture, you can experiment by adding chopped nuts like almonds or pecans for an extra crunch. Just be sure to adjust the baking time slightly, as nuts can brown faster than oats. Aim for a golden color on top, which usually indicates the topping is perfectly baked.

Berry Selection Tips

When selecting berries for this recipe, freshness is paramount. Look for plump, firm berries without any signs of mushiness or mold. This not only enhances the flavor but also ensures the filling maintains a good texture during baking. If you are using frozen berries, thaw them first and drain any excess liquid to avoid a soggy filling.

Each type of berry brings its unique flavor to the dish; for instance, blueberries add sweetness while raspberries introduce a tart zing. You can mix and match according to your taste or what’s in season. Just ensure that the total amount remains at about two cups to maintain the proper balance with the crumb crust.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These Sour Cream Berry Crumble Bars are great for making ahead of time. After baking and cooling, simply cover them with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to five days, making them a convenient treat for busy days. If you want to freeze them, a good tip is to cut the bars into individual portions before placing them in a freezer-safe container; they’ll be ready to enjoy anytime you have a craving.

When serving, these bars shine alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The creamy toppings play off the tartness of the berries beautifully. For an elevated touch, I sometimes sprinkle a little mint on top just before serving, adding a fresh aroma and a pop of color.

Ingredients

For the Crust and Crumble

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed

For the Berry Filling

2 cups mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries)
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp cornstarch

Instructions

Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the cold cubed butter and mix until crumbly. Press half of the mixture into a greased 8x8 inch baking dish for the crust.

Make the Berry Filling

In another bowl, mix the berries gently with sour cream, granulated sugar, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and cornstarch until combined. Spread this mixture over the crust evenly.

Add the Crumble Topping

Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture on top of the berry filling, ensuring an even layer.

Bake the Bars

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the topping is golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.

Slice and Serve

Once cooled, slice into bars and enjoy. Best served with whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, feel free to add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the crumble topping. It adds warmth and depth to the flavors.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your crumble bars turn out too soggy, it might be due to excess moisture from the berries or over-mixing the filling. Always ensure your berries are drained properly if using frozen ones. Additionally, try baking a few minutes longer to allow excess moisture to evaporate and the filling to set.

On the other hand, if the topping is browning too quickly while the bars are baking, consider covering the pan loosely with aluminum foil. This will prevent the crumble from burning while allowing the center to continue cooking evenly. Adjusting the shelf position in your oven may also help, as the top rack tends to brown faster.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable, whether you want to make a larger batch for a party or simply scale down for a smaller household. To double the recipe, use a 9x13 inch baking dish and increase the baking time by about 5-10 minutes. Keep an eye on the topping to ensure it doesn’t over-brown.

For smaller batches, feel free to halve the ingredients and use a smaller dish, like a 6x6 inch pan. Just check for doneness a few minutes earlier as the smaller size will reduce baking time. Regardless of the size, remember the key is to wait for the topping to turn golden and for the filling to be bubbly around the edges.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen berries, but be sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture.

→ How long do these bars last?

They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ What can I substitute for sour cream?

Greek yogurt works as a great substitute for sour cream and will add similar creaminess.