vegan blackberry oatmeal crumble bars

this was not the most attractive of desserts, the bars were extra crumbly and messy, but absolutely delicious and so healthy! i can't wait to make them again!

crust:

3 cups rolled oats

¼ cup organic applesauce

¼ cup pure maple syrup

1 tbsp. coconut oil

1 tsp. vanilla extract

¾ tsp. fine grain sea salt

1 tsp. baking powder

filling:

4 cups fresh blackberries 

1 tsp. ground cinnamon

¼ tsp. ground nutmeg

¼ tsp. fine grain sea salt

zest of 1 organic lemon

½ tbsp. organic cornstarch

1 tbsp. maple syrup

topping:

1 cup rolled oats

2 tbsp. pure maple syrup

2 tbsp. coconut oil 

2/3 cup raw hazelnuts

½ tsp. ground cinnamon

¼ tsp. sea salt

2 tbsp. flour

preheat oven to 350°F

in a food processor blend 2 cups oats on high until you have a rough flour. 

add applesauce, maple syrup, coconut oil, and vanilla. pulse until moist.

in a separate bowl combine the  ½ cup rolled oats, salt, and baking powder. add food processor contents and fold to combine into a dough.

place the dough into a lightly greased brownie pan and press firmly.

add the all the ingredients for the crumble topping into the food processor and pulse a few times to mix. 

to make the filling, place all ingredients in a medium bowl and toss to combine. put them on top of the uncooked crust and spread evenly.

sprinkle the crumble topping over the blackberry layer. 

place in the oven for 30-35 minutes, until slightly golden on top. let cool completely before cutting into bars. 

enjoy!

recipe via My New Roots