Chocolate Strawberry Ganache Crumb Bars

Introduction

Have you ever wondered how to combine the rich decadence of chocolate with the fresh sweetness of strawberries in a single, delightful dessert? If so, you’re in for a treat! Today, we’ll explore a recipe for Chocolate Strawberry Ganache Crumb Bars that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also impresses with its elegant presentation. This recipe blends the lusciousness of chocolate ganache with the vibrant flavor of strawberries, all enveloped in a crumbly base. Let’s dive into this delicious journey!

Ingredients List

To create these mouthwatering Chocolate Strawberry Ganache Crumb Bars, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Crust and Crumb Topping:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup rolled oats
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Strawberry Layer:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Chocolate Ganache:

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Substitution Suggestions:

• For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Use coconut oil in place of unsalted butter for a dairy-free version.
• Swap strawberries for raspberries or blueberries for a different flavor profile.

Timing

Preparing these delectable bars is not only rewarding but also time-efficient. Here’s a breakdown of the timing involved:

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 60 minutes

This total time is approximately 20% less than the average dessert recipe, making it a quick yet impressive option for gatherings or a sweet treat at home.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Pour in the melted butter and vanilla extract. Mix until crumbly.
4. Reserve 1 cup of the mixture for the topping, then press the remaining mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×9 inch baking pan.

Step 2: Make the Strawberry Layer

1. In a separate bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Toss gently to coat the strawberries evenly.
2. Spread the strawberry mixture over the crust layer in the baking pan.

Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache

1. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
2. Remove from heat and add the chocolate chips and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and glossy.
3. Pour the ganache over the strawberry layer, spreading it evenly.

Step 4: Add the Crumb Topping

1. Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture over the chocolate ganache layer.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

1. Allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
2. For the best results, refrigerate for an hour to set the layers before serving.

Nutritional Information

These Chocolate Strawberry Ganache Crumb Bars are not just delicious but also provide a satisfying nutritional profile. Here’s a breakdown per serving (assuming 12 servings):

• Calories: 250
• Total Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 150mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 34g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 15g
• Protein: 3g

Nutritional Insights:

• Rich in antioxidants from strawberries.
• Provides a good source of energy from oats and chocolate.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to make these bars a bit healthier, consider the following modifications:

• Reduce Sugar: Cut down the sugar in the strawberry layer by half to enhance the natural sweetness of the fruit.
• Use Dark Chocolate: Opt for dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet for added health benefits, including higher antioxidant levels.
• Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped nuts into the crumb mixture for added protein and healthy fats.

Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Strawberry Ganache Crumb Bars are incredibly versatile and can be served in various delightful ways:

• Garnish with Fresh Mint: Add a sprig of fresh mint on top for a pop of color and flavor.
• Serve with Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the bars.
• Drizzle with Extra Ganache: For an indulgent touch, drizzle extra chocolate ganache over the top just before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Chocolate Strawberry Ganache Crumb Bars turn out perfectly, here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Overmixing the Crust: Mixing too much can lead to a tough crust. Mix just until combined.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Ensure your butter and cream are at room temperature for a smoother ganache and crust.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: Allowing the bars to cool completely helps the layers set properly, making them easier to slice.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To maintain the freshness and flavor of your Chocolate Strawberry Ganache Crumb Bars, follow these storage tips:

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: These bars can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing.
• Thawing: To enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Conclusion

In summary, these Chocolate Strawberry Ganache Crumb Bars are a delightful combination of flavors and textures that are sure to impress. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, they are a must-try for dessert lovers. Don’t forget to try this recipe, share your feedback in the comments, and subscribe for more delicious updates!

FAQs

Q1: Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

A1: Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw and drain them to remove excess moisture before using.

Q2: How do I know when the bars are done baking?

A2: The bars are done when the crumb topping is golden brown and the ganache is set but still slightly soft.

Q3: Can I make these bars vegan?

A3: Absolutely! Substitute butter with coconut oil, use plant-based chocolate, and replace heavy cream with coconut cream.

Q4: How can I enhance the chocolate flavor?

A4: You can enhance the chocolate flavor by adding a teaspoon of espresso powder to the ganache mixture.

Q5: Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?

A5: Yes, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and ensure other ingredients are gluten-free.

Chocolate Strawberry Ganache Crumb Bars

Print

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes

Total Time 30 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Crust and Crumb Topping:
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup rolled oats
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the Strawberry Layer:
• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• For the Chocolate Ganache:
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Substitution Suggestions:
• For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Use coconut oil in place of unsalted butter for a dairy-free version.
• Swap strawberries for raspberries or blueberries for a different flavor profile.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Pour in the melted butter and vanilla extract. Mix until crumbly.
4. Reserve 1 cup of the mixture for the topping, then press the remaining mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9x9 inch baking pan.

Step 2: Make the Strawberry Layer

1. In a separate bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Toss gently to coat the strawberries evenly.
2. Spread the strawberry mixture over the crust layer in the baking pan.

Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache

1. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
2. Remove from heat and add the chocolate chips and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and glossy.
3. Pour the ganache over the strawberry layer, spreading it evenly.

Step 4: Add the Crumb Topping

1. Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture over the chocolate ganache layer.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

1. Allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
2. For the best results, refrigerate for an hour to set the layers before serving.