Sour Cream Berry Crumble Bars

Name: Sour Cream Berry Crumble Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 1/2 cups mixed berries (fresh or frozen); 1 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Highlighted under: Sweet Bakes

I love making these Sour Cream Berry Crumble Bars whenever I want to impress guests or indulge my sweet tooth. The combination of tart berries and creamy sour cream achieves a delightful balance of flavors that leaves everyone wanting more. I appreciate how the buttery crumble topping adds a satisfying crunch, making each bite a gourmet experience. These bars are perfect for gatherings, picnics, or simply to enjoy at home with a cup of tea. Trust me, once you try them, they will become your go-to dessert!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-04T17:53:27.287Z

When I first baked these Sour Cream Berry Crumble Bars, I was amazed at how well the flavors melded together. The tartness of the berries complemented the creamy sour cream brilliantly, creating a rich and indulgent treat. I decided to mix different berries—raspberries, blueberries, and gooseberries—which added a vibrant color and depth of flavor that truly elevated the bars.

One tip I learned is to let the bars cool completely before slicing, as this helps achieve clean cuts and a beautiful presentation. Not only do these bars taste amazing, but they also look fantastic on any dessert table, making them a perfect addition to celebrations or casual gatherings.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich flavor of mixed berries blended with creamy sour cream
Crunchy crumble topping that contrasts perfectly with berry filling
Versatile dessert that's perfect for any occasion

Crafting the Perfect Crust

The crust of these Sour Cream Berry Crumble Bars plays a pivotal role in achieving the right balance of flavors and textures. Using unsalted butter is essential, as it allows you to control the salt level in the recipe. When mixing the crust ingredients, aim for a crumbly yet cohesive texture; it should hold together when pressed but still have a lightness to it. This crust serves as a sturdy base while remaining tender, providing an inviting contrast to the creamy filling.

If you're looking to add a hint of complexity to the crust, consider incorporating a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon. Both additions enhance the flavor profile without overpowering the berry filling. Remember, when pressing the crust into the pan, make sure it's evenly compacted to avoid any uneven baking, which could lead to a soggy bottom. An evenly baked crust is crucial for the overall structure of your bars.

Berry Selection and Its Impact

Using a mixture of berries elevates the flavor and visual appeal of these bars. Fresh berries like raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries add a delightful tartness, while frozen berries offer convenience and will work just as well. If opting for frozen fruit, remember to thaw and drain any excess liquid to prevent a watery filling. A pro-tip is to toss the berries in a bit of cornstarch before adding them to the filling mixture, which can help absorb moisture and maintain the desired consistency.

The type of berries you choose can also affect the sweetness of your filling. For instance, if using sweeter strawberries, you may want to reduce the sugar in the filling slightly to achieve a perfect balance. Don't hesitate to experiment with different berry combinations—each mix brings a unique flavor and texture to the bars that can be tailored to your taste.

Ingredients

For the Crust and Topping

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Berry Filling

1 1/2 cups mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon cornstarch

Instructions

Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, melted butter, baking powder, and salt until crumbly. Press half of this mixture into the bottom of a greased 9x9 inch baking pan to create the crust.

Make the Filling

In another bowl, whisk together sour cream, sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and cornstarch until smooth. Gently fold in the mixed berries, ensuring they are evenly distributed.

Assemble the Bars

Pour the berry mixture over the crust, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture over the top, covering the filling.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool completely before slicing into bars.

Pro Tips

For the best results, use fresh berries when possible for enhanced flavor and texture. If using frozen berries, thaw and drain excess liquid to prevent sogginess.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These Sour Cream Berry Crumble Bars can easily be made in advance, making them an excellent choice for gatherings. Once baked, cool the bars completely in the pan on a wire rack. You can then refrigerate them for up to three days. For longer storage, slice the bars individually, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and freeze for up to two months. Simply thaw at room temperature before serving, and enjoy a taste of summer anytime.

For a fresher taste, consider assembling the bars up to the baking step and storing the crumb mixture and filling separately. This method allows you to bake fresh bars whenever the craving strikes, ensuring maximum crunchiness of the topping and freshness of the fruits.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

I love serving these bars with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. A drizzle of warm berry sauce can also elevate the presentation and flavor, making for an elegant touch on special occasions. For a more refined experience, dust the cooled bars with powdered sugar just before serving or incorporate a sprinkle of fresh mint for added color.

If you're feeling creative, consider flavor variations by adding lemon or orange zest to the filling for a citrusy twist. You can also substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a similar tang with additional protein. This recipe is flexible, so feel free to customize the berry filling based on what's in season or your personal favorites!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of berries?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries.

→ How can I store the crumble bars?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, you can freeze the bars for up to 2 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before freezing.

→ What can I serve with these bars?

They are delicious on their own, but a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully!