Blueberry Oatmeal Breakfast Bars

Short Description

Blueberry Oatmeal Breakfast Bars are the perfect make-ahead breakfast or snack, combining wholesome oats, juicy blueberries, and natural sweeteners into a delicious, soft, and chewy bar. These bars are nutritious, easy to make, and great for busy mornings or on-the-go snacking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with fiber-rich oats, antioxidant-loaded blueberries, and natural sweeteners, these bars make for a nutritious breakfast or snack.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps ensure that even beginner bakers can whip up a batch effortlessly.
• Customizable: You can adjust the ingredients to suit dietary preferences, including making them gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan.
• Meal-Prep Friendly: These bars store well, making them ideal for meal prep and quick breakfasts throughout the week.
• Great Taste and Texture: The balance of soft and chewy oats with bursts of sweet blueberries makes these bars incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients

• Rolled oats
• Whole wheat or all-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Cinnamon
• Salt
• Honey or maple syrup
• Unsweetened applesauce
• Eggs or flaxseed eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Coconut oil or butter
• Fresh or frozen blueberries

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until well blended.
3. Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey (or maple syrup), applesauce, eggs (or flaxseed eggs), vanilla extract, and melted coconut oil (or butter).
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Fold in Blueberries: Gently fold in the fresh or frozen blueberries, ensuring even distribution throughout the batter.
6. Bake the Bars: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Slice: Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once completely cool, cut into squares or rectangles and enjoy.

Variations

• Gluten-Free Option: Swap out the flour for almond flour or a certified gluten-free flour blend.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut oil instead of butter and ensure any additional mix-ins are dairy-free.
• Vegan Adaptation: Replace eggs with flaxseed eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water per egg) and use maple syrup instead of honey.
• Nutty Boost: Add a handful of chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for extra crunch and protein.
• Chocolate Delight: Stir in dark chocolate chips for a touch of sweetness.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes
• Servings: 8-10 bars

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individual bars in parchment paper and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Enjoy straight from the fridge or microwave for 15-20 seconds for a warm treat.

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, but the texture will be softer and less chewy. Rolled oats provide the best structure.

Can I use frozen blueberries?

Absolutely! Just be sure not to thaw them before mixing to prevent excess moisture in the batter.

Can I make these bars without sweeteners?

You can reduce or omit the honey/maple syrup and rely on the natural sweetness of the applesauce and blueberries.

How do I make these bars more protein-rich?

Add a scoop of protein powder or some Greek yogurt to the batter for extra protein.

Are these bars suitable for kids?

Yes! These bars are naturally sweetened and packed with nutrients, making them a great kid-friendly option.

What can I use instead of applesauce?

Mashed bananas or yogurt can be used as an alternative for a similar moisture content.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply use a larger baking dish (9×13 inches) and adjust the baking time accordingly.

How do I keep the bars from getting too dry?

Ensure you don’t overbake them and store them in an airtight container to retain moisture.

Can I add other fruits?

Yes, chopped strawberries, raspberries, or even dried fruits like raisins can be added.

What’s the best way to cut the bars evenly?

Use a sharp knife and let the bars cool completely before slicing for clean, even cuts.

Conclusion

Blueberry Oatmeal Breakfast Bars are a delicious, healthy, and convenient breakfast or snack option. With their customizable ingredients and easy preparation, they’re perfect for meal prep and busy mornings. Give them a try and enjoy a nutritious start to your day!

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