Plum & Raspberry Crumble Bars

The Plum & Raspberry Crumble Bars are a delightful fusion of tangy fruit and buttery crumb, creating a nostalgic taste of summer in every bite. The jammy raspberry and fresh plum center pairs beautifully with the golden, nutty pecan crumble topping, making them as beautiful as they are delicious.

Whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or cooled for a picnic-ready snack, these bars bring comfort and flavor to any occasion. Simple to prepare, yet stunning in presentation, they’re ideal for bakers looking to elevate seasonal fruit in a charming and satisfying way.

Full Recipe:

200g fresh raspberries
150g plum jam

Juice of ½ lemon
3 ripe plums, stoned and chopped
300g plain flour

200g cold unsalted butter, cubed
100g caster sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

75g chopped pecans

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or 350°F. Grease and line a square baking tin with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, rub together the flour and butter using your fingertips until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
Stir in the sugar and vanilla extract. Remove a third of the dough and set aside.

Press the remaining two-thirds of the dough firmly into the base of the prepared tin to form a crust.
In a separate bowl, mash the raspberries, plum jam, and lemon juice using a fork. Stir in the chopped plums.
Spread the fruit mixture evenly over the crust layer in the tin.

Mix the reserved dough with the chopped pecans by scrunching it between your fingers to create a crumbly texture.
Scatter this crumble topping over the fruit layer.
Bake in the preheated oven for 50-55 minutes, or until the edges are bubbling and the top is golden brown.

Allow to cool completely in the tin before slicing into bars.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 55 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Kcal: 280 kcal | Servings: 12 bars

History and Origin

Crumble desserts, in their various forms, have a rich history in the United Kingdom. Though the exact origin of the crumble remains a topic of debate, it is widely believed to have evolved during the Second World War when rationing limited the availability of ingredients like butter and sugar. The need to create a dessert from simple ingredients led to the creation of the crumble, where fruit was covered with a sweet, buttery topping made from flour and fat. While the original crumble often featured apples, the concept has since expanded to include various fruits, such as rhubarb, pears, and stone fruits like plums.

The addition of raspberries to the traditional crumble bars brings a modern twist to the classic, infusing the bars with a rich, fruity depth. Plums, known for their deep purple hues and sweet-tart flavor, are often used in desserts throughout Europe, especially during the late summer and early autumn months when the fruit is in season. The combination of plums and raspberries in a crumble bar is a fusion of traditional and contemporary flavors that have become beloved in modern-day baking.

Variations and Adaptations

One of the best things about plum and raspberry crumble bars is their versatility. While the traditional recipe combines plums and raspberries, you can experiment with a variety of fruits to suit your preferences or the seasons. For instance, try swapping the plums for peaches, nectarines, or even pears. You could also use blackberries or strawberries instead of raspberries for a different berry twist.

In some variations, adding a bit of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to the crumble topping can enhance the flavor profile, particularly in colder months when spiced desserts are more popular. If you want to make the bars even more indulgent, try adding a drizzle of caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream when serving.

For those who follow gluten-free diets, the recipe can easily be adapted by using gluten-free flour in place of regular flour. Likewise, vegan versions can be created by substituting butter with plant-based alternatives like coconut oil or vegan butter. These adaptations allow you to cater the dessert to different dietary needs without compromising on flavor or texture.

Another creative variation is to turn these bars into individual crumble cups. Simply press the dough into muffin tins instead of a baking tray for perfectly portioned crumble bites. This approach makes for a fun and convenient way to serve the dessert at parties or gatherings.

Nutritional Information

When it comes to the nutritional value of plum and raspberry crumble bars, it’s important to consider both the health benefits and indulgence these bars bring. While they are a delicious treat, they should be enjoyed in moderation, especially if you’re mindful of calorie intake or specific dietary needs.

A typical serving (one square) contains roughly 280-300 calories, though the exact number can vary depending on the size of the bar and the ingredients used. These calories come primarily from carbohydrates (from the flour, sugar, and fruit) and fats (from butter and pecans in the crumble). The fruit provides a healthy dose of fiber and natural sugars, while the pecans add heart-healthy fats.

Macronutrients:

Carbohydrates: Around 40g per serving, thanks to the fruit and flour. The fruit, especially the raspberries, helps balance the sweetness of the dish by adding natural sugars and dietary fiber.
Fats: Approximately 15g, mostly from the butter and pecans, which offer a combination of saturated and unsaturated fats. While high in fat, the use of healthy fats like pecans and the relatively small amount of butter in the recipe helps keep the dish more balanced.
Protein: At about 3g per serving, the protein content comes from the pecans, which are a good plant-based protein source.

Micronutrients:

Vitamins and minerals: The plums and raspberries are rich in vitamins C and A, both of which support immune function, skin health, and overall vitality. The berries, in particular, are packed with antioxidants, which may help fight oxidative stress and reduce inflammation. Plums also provide a good amount of potassium, supporting heart health.

Pecans contribute magnesium and vitamin E, which are beneficial for bone health and skin repair.

While the recipe isn’t low in calories, it does offer a number of beneficial nutrients, particularly in the fruit and nuts, making it a more balanced treat compared to some other dessert options.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Plum and raspberry crumble bars are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. For a simple yet elegant presentation, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream. The cold creaminess pairs wonderfully with the warm, juicy fruit filling and the crunchy crumble topping.

If you prefer a more decadent treat, a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce over the top can take these bars to the next level. Alternatively, serve them with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea for a comforting afternoon snack. The combination of the fruit’s tangy sweetness with the deep, nutty flavor of the crumble creates a balance that makes these bars an excellent choice for pairing with hot beverages.

For a more festive touch, try topping the bars with a handful of chopped fresh mint or a light dusting of powdered sugar to give them a sophisticated finish. These bars are also perfect for potlucks, picnics, or family gatherings, as they are easy to transport and serve.

Tips and Tricks for Success

To ensure your plum and raspberry crumble bars turn out perfectly, here are a few expert tips:

Use ripe fruit: Fresh, ripe plums and raspberries will create the most flavorful fruit filling. Look for plums that are slightly soft to the touch but not overripe. The raspberries should be plump and firm.

Don’t overwork the crumble topping: The key to a perfect crumble topping is to handle the dough as little as possible. Overworking it can make the topping dense rather than light and crumbly. Rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs, then mix in the sugar.
Let them cool completely: While it’s tempting to dive into these bars right away, allowing them to cool completely in the tin ensures that they set properly. Cutting them while they’re still warm can cause them to fall apart.
Customize your toppings: Adding nuts like pecans, almonds, or walnuts to the crumble topping not only enhances the flavor but also adds extra texture. If you prefer a smoother topping, you can omit the nuts.

Potential Health Benefits

Although these plum and raspberry crumble bars are a dessert, they do offer some potential health benefits due to their ingredients. Both plums and raspberries are high in fiber, which is essential for digestive health. Raspberries, in particular, are also rich in antioxidants, which may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.

Pecans, commonly found in the crumble topping, are a great source of healthy fats, including monounsaturated fats, which are known to improve cholesterol levels and support heart health. They also contain vitamin E, which has antioxidant properties and supports skin and eye health.

While the crumble bars are not a “health food” by any means, they do offer a better balance of nutrients than many other dessert options. By using fresh fruit and healthy fats, this dessert brings some nutritional value to the table without sacrificing taste.

Conclusion

Plum and raspberry crumble bars are an irresistible treat that combines the best of both worlds: indulgent yet somewhat wholesome. The blend of sweet fruit, buttery crumble, and crunchy nuts makes for a dessert that’s both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering, enjoying them as an afternoon snack, or sharing them at a picnic, these crumble bars are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

The versatility of this recipe—along with its easy adaptability for different dietary preferences—makes it a wonderful choice for anyone who loves a good, homemade dessert. Try these bars today and enjoy the perfect balance of flavor and texture in every bite!