Blackberry Mascarpone Crumble Bars

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Blackberry Mascarpone Crumble Bars.

1. Step 1

   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.

2. Step 2

   In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, almond meal, white sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles pea-sized crumbs.

3. Step 3

   Add the egg and vanilla extract to the mixture, stirring until the dough is crumbly but holds together when pressed.

4. Step 4

   Press half of the dough into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, reserving the other half for the topping.

5. Step 5

   Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool, keeping the oven on.

6. Step 6

   In a separate bowl, beat together the mascarpone cheese, sugar, half of the lemon zest, and half of the lemon juice until smooth and creamy.

7. Step 7

   In another bowl, mix the blackberries with sugar, the remaining lemon zest, the remaining lemon juice, cornstarch, orange liqueur, and salt until well combined.

8. Step 8

   Spread the mascarpone filling evenly over the cooled crust, then layer the blackberry mixture on top. Finally, sprinkle the reserved crumble dough over the filling.

9. Step 9

   Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 40 to 45 minutes, or until the filling is bubbling and the top is lightly browned. Allow to cool to room temperature for about 30 minutes.

10. Step 10

    For the best flavor and texture, refrigerate the bars for at least 8 hours or overnight before cutting into 16 squares.