These Strawberry Crumb Bars are filled with a sweet and juicy strawberry filling and topped with a buttery grain-free shortbread crumble topping. They are made with simple pantry-friendly ingredients and make the perfect healthy snack or dessert for spring and summer. These strawberry bars are also completely gluten-free, grain free, paleo and refined-sugar free with low carb and keto sweetener options.
Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8x8 baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang.
In a medium pot over medium heat, add fruit, maple syrup, arrowroot, lemon juice and lemon zest. Bring to a boil, while smashing & stirring with a wooden spoon. Reduce heat & cook for 3-5 minutes, or until mixture is thickened. Chill in fridge until ready to use.
Chop your coconut flakes or sliced almond until they resemble the texture of quick oats or alternatively, you can add them to the bowl of a food processor and pulse 1-2 times, until still crumbly.
Transfer to a large bowl and whisk in the almond flour, sugars, baking powder and salt. With a fork, pastry cutter, or using your clean hands, cut butter into flour mixture together until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Press a little more than half of the crust mixture into prepared pan. Bake for 12 minutes. Remove from oven & allow to cool for 5 minutes.
Spread fruit mixture evenly over crust. Sprinkle remaining crumb mixture over berry layer.
Bake in preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, or until top is golden brown. Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares or enjoy straight. Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
How To Store The Leftovers
Transfer the cooled bars to a reusable storage container and store in the refrigerator for up to four days. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the microwave and coat with your favorite nut butter or just allow them to come to room temperature.
How to freeze
Arrange the strawberry pie bars in a single layer inside a reusable storage container or bag. Store these squares in the freezer for up to six months. When ready to eat, allow the strawberry bars to thaw in the refrigerator overnight.