Baked Oatmeal Blueberry Bars are a delightful and nutritious treat that combines the heartiness of oatmeal with the sweetness of blueberries. These bars are perfect for breakfast, a healthy snack, or even a quick dessert. They’re easy to make and packed with wholesome ingredients, making them a fantastic option for everyone in the family. Let’s dive into all the tasty details of this recipe!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Servings: 9 bars
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: Approximately 180
- Protein: 4g per serving
- Carbohydrates: 30g per serving
- Fat: 6g per serving
- Fiber: 3g per serving
- Sugar: 6g per serving
- Sodium: 150mg per serving
Why Make This Baked Oatmeal Blueberry Bars
These Baked Oatmeal Blueberry Bars offer a wholesome way to start your day or to refuel in the afternoon. They’re not only delicious but also customizable to suit your personal taste. The combination of oats and blueberries provides a good source of fiber and antioxidants, while the natural sweetness from maple syrup or honey keeps things light and flavorful. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make, meaning you can whip them up in no time at all!
How to Make Baked Oatmeal Blueberry Bars
Making these baked oatmeal blueberry bars is a straightforward process. Follow these easy steps to bring this healthy treat to your table.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup milk (or almond milk)
- 1/2 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
- 2 eggs
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish. This step ensures that your oatmeal bars don’t stick to the pan.
Step 2: Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Stir these ingredients together until well mixed.
Step 3: Mixing Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the milk, maple syrup (or honey), melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and eggs until fully combined. This mixture will add moisture and flavor to your bars.
Step 4: Combining Ingredients
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well combined. Gently fold in the blueberries, taking care not to smash them.
Step 5: Baking
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is set and turns a lovely golden color.
Step 6: Cooling
Allow the bars to cool in the dish for a few minutes, then cut into squares. You can serve them warm or let them cool completely at room temperature.
How to Serve Baked Oatmeal Blueberry Bars
These bars can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Serve them with a dollop of yogurt, a drizzle of additional maple syrup, or fresh fruit on the side. For meal prep, you can wrap them individually for a convenient breakfast on the go or a snack during the day.
How to Store Baked Oatmeal Blueberry Bars
Store your baked oatmeal blueberry bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, they can be refrigerated for up to a week or frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap before freezing.
Expert Tips for Perfect Baked Oatmeal Blueberry Bars
- Use Fresh or Frozen Blueberries: Both work well in this recipe. If using frozen, you may want to add them directly from the freezer to prevent them from breaking apart.
- Customize Sweetness: Adjust the amount of maple syrup or honey based on your personal preference for sweetness.
- Add Nuts or Seeds: For added crunch and nutrition, consider folding in some chopped nuts or seeds, such as walnuts or chia seeds.
- Overmix Caution: Be gentle when combining the ingredients to ensure your bars stay soft and chewy rather than dense.
Delicious Variations
- Nutty Baked Oatmeal Bars: Incorporate your favorite nuts or nut butter to enhance the flavor and give added texture.
- Spiced Variation: Add spices like nutmeg or ginger for a warm, spiced flavor profile.
- Chocolate Chip Version: Stir in chocolate chips for a sweeter treat that kids will love.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Quick oats can be used, but they may change the texture slightly, making the bars less chewy. -
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Make sure to choose certified gluten-free oats and check all ingredients for any hidden gluten. -
How can I make these vegan?
Substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water equals one egg) and use almond milk to keep it plant-based. -
What if I don’t have maple syrup?
Honey or agave nectar can be used as alternatives for sweetening. -
Can I add other fruits?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other fruits like raspberries or strawberries, adjusting the quantity as needed.
Conclusion
Baked Oatmeal Blueberry Bars are an excellent way to enjoy a wholesome, delicious treat that’s packed with flavor and nutrients. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast or a satisfying snack, these bars are sure to please. They are versatile, easy to make, and a fantastic way to start your day on a healthy note. So gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy the wholesome goodness that these bars bring to your table!
