Mango Crumb Bars Recipe

If you are looking to brighten your dessert table with something sweet, buttery, and bursting with tropical flavor, these Mango Crumb Bars are an absolute must-try. Each bite is a perfect harmony of tart mango filling nestled between a crumbly, golden crust and topping that almost melts in your mouth. They’re simple to make yet taste like a warm, sunshine-filled slice of pure joy that’s as delightful for a casual snack as it is for surprising guests with a fresh, fruity treat.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is the secret to these bars’ wonderful mix of textures and flavors. Each component plays a key role, from the bright, juicy mangoes to the rich, buttery crust that holds everything together with a perfect crumbly finish.

• 2 cups diced ripe mango: Choose mangoes that are vibrant, juicy, and sweet to ensure the filling is flavorful and fresh.
• 1 tbsp lemon juice: Adds just the right amount of brightness to balance the sweetness of the mango.
• 1 tbsp sugar: Enhances the natural sweetness of the fruit, making the filling irresistibly luscious.
• 2 tsp cornstarch: Helps thicken the mango filling so it sets perfectly without being runny.
• 1¾ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of your crust and crumb topping, providing that satisfying, buttery crunch.
• ½ cup sugar: Sweetens the crust and crumb contrast well with the tart mango.
• ¼ tsp salt: A pinch to deepen flavors, making the buttery crust even more delicious.
• ¾ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed: The magic ingredient that gives the crust its rich, crumbly texture.

How to Make Mango Crumb Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Mango Filling

Start by tossing your diced mango with lemon juice, sugar, and cornstarch. This combination ensures the fruit stays bright and fresh, while the cornstarch thickens the mixture as it bakes, giving you a luscious and perfectly set filling.

Step 2: Make the Crust and Crumb Topping

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Then, cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. This process is key to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth crumbly texture that makes these bars so special.

Step 3: Assemble the Bars

Press about two-thirds of your crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a lined 8×8 inch pan. This will act as the sturdy base for your mango filling. Spread the mango mixture evenly on top, then sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the filling to create that signature streusel topping.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Pop your pan into the oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. The bars should turn a gorgeous golden brown on top, signaling they are perfectly baked with a crispy topping and soft, tropical center. Let them cool completely before slicing to ensure clean, beautiful bars.

How to Serve Mango Crumb Bars

Mango Crumb Bars Garnishes

These bars shine splendidly on their own, but a light dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of freshly whipped cream takes them to the next level of indulgence. For a fresh twist, sprinkle chopped toasted coconut or mint leaves on top to add a dash of elegance and extra texture.

Side Dishes

Pairing Mango Crumb Bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of coconut cream makes for an irresistible tropical-inspired dessert duo. They also work beautifully alongside a cup of hot tea or coffee, making an ideal afternoon treat or a sweet finish to any meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Think outside the box by serving these bars in small squares atop individual dessert plates garnished with fresh mango slices or edible flowers for a stunning presentation. You can also layer crumbled bars in a parfait glass with yoghurt or mascarpone cream to transform them into a dazzling, layered dessert everyone will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Mango Crumb Bars keep beautifully at room temperature for up to two days when covered tightly. For longer storage, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate—they’ll stay fresh and moist for up to five days, making them an easy grab-and-go snack.

Freezing

If you want to prepare these bars in advance, they freeze wonderfully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place them in a freezer-safe container. Frozen bars will maintain their flavor and texture for up to three months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

To revive that freshly-baked warmth, reheat Mango Crumb Bars in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. This method keeps the crumb topping crisp and the mango filling beautifully warm without drying them out. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen mangoes for Mango Crumb Bars?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain frozen mangoes thoroughly before mixing, so your filling isn’t too watery. Frozen fruit can be a convenient alternative, especially when mangoes are out of season.

How ripe should the mangoes be?

The riper, the better! Ripe mangoes are sweeter and juicier, which creates that luscious filling. If mangoes are underripe, the bars might end up tart or firm instead of succulent.

What’s the best way to cut the mangoes into cubes?

Peel the mango first, then slice close to the pit on both sides. Use a knife or spoon to cube the flesh. Evenly sized mango pieces help ensure the filling cooks uniformly.

Can I make Mango Crumb Bars gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. You might also want to add a tablespoon of xanthan gum for elasticity, and be sure your blend contains tapioca or potato starch for the right crumb texture.

Is it possible to substitute butter?

Butter is essential for flavor and texture here, but if you prefer, you can use a plant-based margarine of similar firmness. Keep in mind the crumb topping might be slightly less rich and buttery.

Final Thoughts

These Mango Crumb Bars have quickly become a cherished favorite in my kitchen—simple yet spectacular, combining the bright juiciness of mango with a buttery crumb that’s utterly addictive. I encourage you to give them a try, whether for a special occasion or a sweet everyday treat. Once you do, I have a feeling these bars will find a special place in your recipe collection, just as they have in mine.