Are you looking for a delicious and healthy snack that’s easy to make? These Blueberry Oatmeal Bars are just the ticket! Combining the wholesome goodness of oats and the delightful burst of blueberries, these bars are perfect for breakfast on-the-go, a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, or even a light dessert. Not only are they vegetarian, but they are also packed with nutrients, making them a guilt-free indulgence you can enjoy anytime. Plus, they’re simple enough to whip up in under an hour, which makes them a great option for busy days.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/4 cup ground flaxseeds
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
Instructions
To kick things off, preheat your oven to a cozy 350°F (or 175°C). Take an 8×8-inch baking dish and either line it with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the bars from sticking.
Next, grab a large mixing bowl and combine the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, ground flaxseeds, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Mix these dry ingredients well to ensure that each component is evenly distributed throughout.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey (or maple syrup), unsweetened applesauce, vanilla extract, and the large egg until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step is crucial as it combines the sweetness and moisture needed for your bars.
Now, it’s time to bring your mixtures together! Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently stir the blend until just combined—you don’t want to over-mix, as this can lead to denser bars.
With the batter ready, it’s time to add the star of the show: the blueberries! Carefully fold them into the mixture, taking care not to crush them and release their juices too much. The blueberries will provide a lovely flavor and texture to the bars.
Spread the batter evenly into your prepared baking dish. It’s important to get this layer as flat as possible to ensure even baking. Then, slide your dish into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Finally, once baked, remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the baking dish. This step is critical—cutting them while they are still warm can result in a crumbly mess! Once they have cooled, cut them into squares, and you’re ready to enjoy.
Variations
If you want to take your Blueberry Oatmeal Bars to the next level, there are plenty of fun variations you can try! For a nutty twist, feel free to add in some chopped walnuts or almonds; they pair beautifully with the blueberries and add a lovely crunch.
Another option is to mix in some spices. If you’re a fan of pumpkin spice, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a warm flavor profile. You can also swap out the blueberries for other delicious fruits, like raspberries or chopped strawberries, depending on what’s in season or what you have on hand.
If you’re looking to reduce sugar, replace honey with mashed ripe bananas for natural sweetness or use stevia as a sweetener. They’ll still come out lovely while maintaining their healthy profile!
Cooking Notes
When preparing your Blueberry Oatmeal Bars, keep a few handy tips in mind:
- Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best mixing results.
- These bars can be prepared in advance and stored for up to a week in an airtight container at room temperature.
- For longer storage, consider freezing the bars. Just wrap them well, and they can last for up to three months!
- If using frozen blueberries, there’s no need to thaw them first—just fold them in straight from the freezer.
- Adjusting baking time slightly might be necessary if your oven tends to run hot or cool.
Serving Suggestions
These Blueberry Oatmeal Bars are incredibly versatile for serving! They make for a hearty breakfast when paired with your favorite yogurt and a drizzle of honey. Alternatively, you can serve them with fresh fruit on the side for a more colorful plate.
If you’re hosting a picnic, these bars can also be a delicious, easy-to-eat dessert option. Wrap them individually in parchment paper for guests to grab on the go. They travel wonderfully and can be enjoyed at room temperature!
Tips
- Use fresh blueberries when in season for the best taste.
- Try adding some chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
- Be careful not to overbake your bars to keep them soft and chewy.
- If you prefer a sweeter bar, feel free to increase the honey or syrup slightly.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Nutritional Information
Calories: 180
Protein: 4g
Sodium: 70mg
FAQs
Can I substitute the eggs in this recipe?
If you’re looking for an egg-free option, you can replace the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) for a similar binding effect.
Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?
While it’s possible to use instant oats, they may yield a slightly different texture. Rolled oats help create a chewier bar.
How do I store the Blueberry Oatmeal Bars?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend that works for baking.
What’s the best way to cut these bars?
Using a sharp knife, cut the bars after they have completely cooled for the cleanest edges.
Conclusion
If you’re searching for a healthy yet delicious snack option, these Blueberry Oatmeal Bars are sure to become a staple in your home. They are easy to prepare, perfection for any time of day, and everyone in the family will love them! Plus, this recipe opens the door for endless variations that can be adapted to suit any taste preference. We encourage you to try this recipe and share your thoughts in the comments! If you enjoyed it, don’t forget to share it with friends and family so they too can enjoy these scrumptious bars!
Print
Irresistible Blueberry Oatmeal Bars
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars 1x
Description
Delicious and healthy blueberry oatmeal bars that are easy to make and perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/4 cup ground flaxseeds
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare baking dish.
- Combine dry ingredients in a bowl.
- Whisk wet ingredients in a separate bowl.
- Stir wet and dry ingredients together carefully.
- Fold in blueberries gently.
- Spread batter in baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes.
- Cool completely before cutting into squares.
Notes
These bars can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week at room temperature or frozen for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Category: Snack
Nutrition
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sodium: 70 mg
- Protein: 4 g