The first bite into these Mango Crumb Bars is like a sweet, sun-drenched escape to a summer paradise. The buttery shortbread crust gives way to a luscious ripe mango filling, creating a delightful harmony of flavors and textures. I often find myself making these bars when the mangoes are at their peak, their sweet aroma filling my kitchen with a promise of tropical bliss. It’s amazing how such a refreshing dessert can be so easy to whip up, making it the perfect companion for picnics, brunches, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee after a long day.
After an afternoon spent gathering ingredients, this no-bake treat comes together with minimal effort, yet delivers on taste that leaves everyone coming back for seconds. Imagine serving a slice at your next gathering; the smiles will be as bright as the sunny gold of the mango filling. Join me in creating this easy, crowd-pleasing delight that transforms simple pantry staples into a refreshing slice of paradise!
Why are Mango Crumb Bars the perfect treat?
Simplicity at Its Best: These no-bake bars come together with minimal effort, making them perfect for any skill level.
Tropical Bliss: Each bite offers a taste of summer with the lush mango filling that captures the essence of tropical flavors.
Visual Appeal: The golden-yellow mango filling against the buttery shortbread crust makes for an irresistible presentation that will wow your guests.
Versatile Indulgence: Perfect for brunch, dessert, or as a mid-afternoon snack, these bars fit seamlessly into any occasion.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The delightful combination of textures and flavors ensures that they will be a hit with family and friends.
Get ready to impress by creating this easy, delicious dessert that everyone will be raving about!
Mango Crumb Bars Ingredients
For the Crust and Crumble
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for the crust and crumble; almond flour can be used for a gluten-free option.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and creaminess to the crust; ensure it’s at room temperature for easier blending.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens both the crust and the filling; adjust depending on the sweetness of the mangoes!
• Salt – Enhances the flavor of the crust.
• Egg Yolks – Binds the ingredients in the crust and adds moisture; use large eggs for best results.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds a warm, aromatic flavor.
For the Mango Filling
• Ripe Mangoes – The star ingredient, creating a juicy, flavorful filling; Ataulfo or Haden mangoes are recommended, but frozen works if fresh is unavailable.
• Lemon Juice – Adds acidity, balancing the sweetness of the mangoes.
• Cornstarch – Thickens the mango filling; dissolve in water before adding for the best texture.
Feel free to indulge in these Mango Crumb Bars that elevate your summer dessert game with effortless charm!
How to Make Mango Crumb Bars
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** Preheat:** Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan with nonstick spray to ensure easy removal later.
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Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine all-purpose flour, room temperature unsalted butter, granulated sugar, salt, egg yolks, and vanilla extract. Mix until the mixture resembles coarse meal, about 2-3 minutes.
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Form the Crust: Press half of the crumbly mixture into the bottom of the greased baking pan. It should form an even layer. Bake in your preheated oven for 10-15 minutes or until it turns lightly golden brown. Allow it to cool.
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Prepare Mango Filling: In a saucepan, cook diced ripe mangoes, sugar, and lemon juice over medium heat. Stir frequently for about 10-15 minutes, or until the mixture has thickened beautifully.
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Thicken Filling: Stir in the cornstarch mixture until fully combined. Continue to cook for an additional few minutes until the filling is very thick, then remove from heat.
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Layer Filling: Spread the luscious mango filling evenly over the cooled crust in the baking pan. Crumble the remaining dough mixture on top to create a delightful crumb layer.
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Bake Again: Bake the assembled dessert for another 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden brown and inviting. Once baked, allow it to cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars.
Optional: Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Mango Crumb Bars
Room Temperature: Enjoy your mango crumb bars for up to 2 days at room temperature; keep them covered to prevent drying out.
Fridge: For optimal freshness, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This helps maintain the bars’ luscious texture.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw frozen mango crumb bars in the fridge overnight. For a delightful warm treat, you can microwave them for 10-15 seconds before serving.
Expert Tips for Mango Crumb Bars
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Taste Test: Always taste the mango filling while cooking to adjust sweetness. Ripe mangoes can vary greatly in flavor!
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Perfect Consistency: Ensure your cornstarch is fully dissolved in water before adding it to the mango filling to avoid clumps in your delicious mango crumb bars.
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room temperature butter and eggs for a smoother crust mixture that binds beautifully.
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Crumble Layer: Press the remaining dough lightly onto the mango filling for a cohesive texture that won’t fall apart when sliced.
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Cooling Time: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan to set properly; this step ensures they slice neatly and hold their shape.
Make Ahead Options
These Mango Crumb Bars are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this delightful dessert with minimal last-minute effort. You can prepare the crust and crumble up to 24 hours in advance; simply store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. The mango filling can also be cooked and refrigerated for up to 3 days, ensuring the flavors develop beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, spread the chilled mango filling over the crust, crumble the topping on, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll have a refreshing summer treat ready in no time, and it will be just as delicious!
What to Serve with Mango Crumb Bars?
Brighten your dessert table with delightful pairings that enhance every refreshing bite of these sunny bars.
- Coconut Whipped Cream: The light, airy texture complements the luscious mango layers beautifully, adding a tropical twist.
- Mint Leaf Garnish: A sprightly touch of fresh mint elevates the presentation and adds a burst of invigorating flavor.
- Lemon Sorbet: The zesty coolness of sorbet pairs remarkably with the sweet mango, creating a perfect balance of tastes.
- Iced Green Tea: Refreshing and mildly sweet, this drink offers a soothing contrast to the rich buttery flavors in the bars.
- Tropical Fruit Salad: Combine mango, pineapple, and kiwi for a colorful side that echoes the main dessert’s bright colors.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of smooth ice cream adds creaminess, enhancing the overall indulgent experience of these bars.
- Homemade Lemonade: Tart and sweet, refreshing lemonade complements the sweetness of the mango filling while cleansing the palate.
- Chilled Rosé Wine: This light, fruity wine serves as a sophisticated pairing, enhancing the tropical vibes of the dessert.
- Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: For a charming contrast, serve alongside this classic dessert that mirrors the tropical theme.
- Cold Brew Coffee: The smoothness of cold brew coffee balances the sweetness of the bars, making it an ideal pairing for a summer brunch.
Mango Crumb Bars Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and tailor these bars to your taste!
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Vegan: Swap egg yolks for a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) to keep it plant-based.
Make your treat even more inclusive while still enjoying that delicious crumbly texture! -
Gluten-Free: Use almond flour in place of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free crust that maintains the delightful flavor.
This option not only caters to dietary needs but also adds a nutty richness to every bite. -
Coconut Bliss: Mix shredded coconut into the crumble for a tropical twist that pairs beautifully with the mango filling.
The added texture will remind you of beach vacations, making each bite a mini getaway! -
Berry Fusion: Consider adding berries like blueberries or raspberries to the mango filling for a vibrant, mixed-fruit delight.
This colorful combo will not only enhance the flavor but also add a pop of stunning color. -
Lemon Zest: Incorporate lemon zest into the mango filling for an extra zing that complements the sweetness of the mangoes beautifully.
This bright note will keep your taste buds dancing with joy! -
Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mango filling for a surprising warm contrast.
Don’t be shy—sometimes a little heat elevates a sweet treat into something your guests won’t forget! -
Nutty Crumble: Blend in some chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans into the crumble for added crunch and deep flavor.
Each bite will offer a delightful surprise, perfect for nut lovers! -
Chocolate Drizzle: After the bars are baked and cooled, drizzle melted chocolate over the top for a rich, sweet finish.
This indulgent touch makes them perfect for special occasions or just treating yourself to something extraordinary!
Mango Crumb Bars Recipe FAQs
What type of mangoes should I use for the filling?
For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using Ataulfo or Haden mangoes. These varieties are known for their luscious sweetness and creamy texture. If fresh mangoes aren’t available, frozen mangoes work well too—just ensure they are ripe enough for your taste.
How should I store leftover mango crumb bars?
Store your mango crumb bars in an airtight container. At room temperature, they will remain fresh for up to 2 days. For longer storage, pop them in the refrigerator, where they can last up to 5 days while maintaining their delightful texture.
Can I freeze mango crumb bars?
Absolutely! To freeze, first wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the fridge overnight. If you like them warm, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds!
What should I do if the mango filling is too runny?
If you find your filling is too runny, make sure the cornstarch is fully dissolved in water before adding it to the mango mixture. For a firmer filling, you can return the pan to medium heat and simmer, stirring constantly until it thickens to your desired consistency. This should give you a beautifully smooth and thick filling, perfect for your bars.
Are mango crumb bars suitable for those with nut allergies?
Yes, this recipe can be nut-free as it primarily uses all-purpose flour and butter. However, if you’re substituting the flour with almond flour for a gluten-free option, please take into account that it contains nuts and could pose a risk for those with nut allergies.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the recipe?
Absolutely! The sweetness of mangoes can vary, so I recommend tasting the filling while cooking and adjusting the sugar as needed. If your mangoes are particularly sweet, you might find you can reduce the added sugar significantly, which is a wonderful way to keep it healthier while still enjoying the delightful flavors of the mango crumb bars.
Mango Crumb Bars: Easy No-Bake Summer Delight Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9-inch baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, butter, sugar, salt, egg yolks, and vanilla until the mixture resembles coarse meal.
- Press half of the mixture into the bottom of the greased baking pan. Bake for 10-15 minutes until lightly golden brown; allow to cool.
- In a saucepan, cook diced mangoes, sugar, and lemon juice over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes until thickened.
- Stir in the cornstarch mixture and continue cooking for a few more minutes until very thick; remove from heat.
- Spread the mango filling evenly over the cooled crust. Crumble the remaining dough mixture on top.
- Bake for another 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown. Allow to cool completely before slicing.
- Optional: Dust with powdered sugar before serving.