Blueberry oat bars are the perfect balance of hearty oats, sweet jam, and juicy blueberries. These bars are versatile, making them ideal for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even dessert. Packed with texture and flavor, they’re easy to prepare and sure to impress. Let’s dive into this recipe for a batch of homemade goodness that’s both delicious and satisfying.
Ingredients
For the Oat Base and Crumble:
- 2 cups (224g) oats (rolled or quick oats)
- 1 ¾ cups (210g) all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup (165g) brown sugar (firmly packed)
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (225g) melted butter
For the Blueberry Filling:
- ¾ cup (190g) blueberry jam
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease or line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper. Leave an overhang on the sides for easy removal after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Oat Base and Crumble
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. Mix well to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.
- Pour the melted butter into the bowl. Stir thoroughly until the mixture forms a crumbly texture. Ensure all dry ingredients are evenly moistened for a cohesive crust and topping.
Step 3: Assemble the Base Layer
- Measure out 2/3 of the oat mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Use your fingers or the back of a spoon to create an even, compact layer.
- Bake the base in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, or until it begins to firm up and turns lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before adding the filling.
Step 4: Prepare the Blueberry Filling
- Spread ¾ cup blueberry jam evenly over the pre-baked crust. Use a spatula to ensure the jam covers the surface uniformly.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries on top of the jam layer. Distribute the blueberries evenly to ensure a burst of flavor in every bite.
Step 5: Add the Crumble Topping
- Take the remaining 1/3 of the oat mixture and crumble it over the blueberry filling. The topping should be evenly distributed and have a textured appearance.
- Lightly press the crumble topping down using your hands or a spatula. This helps the topping adhere to the filling during baking.
Step 6: Bake the Bars
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the blueberry filling is bubbling around the edges.
- Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Cooling takes approximately 20-30 minutes and ensures the bars set properly before slicing.
Cooking Tips
- Choose Your Oats Wisely: Quick oats create a smoother texture, while rolled oats add a heartier chewiness. Select based on your preference.
- Jam Substitutions: If blueberry jam isn’t available, substitute with raspberry, strawberry, or mixed berry jam. Each adds its own unique twist.
- Frozen Blueberries: There’s no need to thaw frozen blueberries before use. Adding them frozen helps maintain their shape and prevents excess liquid from seeping into the base.
- Add Extra Sweetness: For those with a sweet tooth, sprinkle a tablespoon of sugar over the blueberries before adding the crumble topping.
- Enhance the Flavor: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the oat mixture for a bright, zesty contrast that pairs beautifully with blueberries.
Variations and Substitutions
- Mixed Berry Bars: Use a combination of fresh or frozen berries, such as raspberries, blackberries, or strawberries, for a medley of flavors.
- Citrus Twist: Incorporate orange or lemon zest into the oat mixture and a splash of juice into the jam for a tangy twist.
- Nutty Addition: Add chopped nuts, such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts, to the crumble topping for added crunch and richness.
- Gluten-Free Version: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and ensure the oats are certified gluten-free.
- Vegan Option: Use a plant-based butter substitute to make these bars suitable for a vegan diet.
FAQs
Can I use steel-cut oats for this recipe?
Steel-cut oats are not recommended as they are too coarse and won’t achieve the desired texture. Stick with rolled or quick oats for best results.
What’s the best way to store these bars?
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate them for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze the bars in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
Can I use fresh blueberries instead of frozen?
Yes! Fresh blueberries work perfectly. If using frozen, there’s no need to thaw them beforehand.
How do I prevent the bars from crumbling when cutting?
Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing. Using a sharp knife and wiping it clean between cuts can also help maintain clean edges.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! To double the recipe, use a 9×13-inch baking pan, and adjust the baking time slightly, keeping an eye on the color and bubbling edges.
Nutritional Information (Per Bar, Based on 12 Bars)
- Calories: 270 kcal
- Protein: 3 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fat: 13 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 17 g
- Sodium: 120 mg
Conclusion
These Blueberry Oat Bars are an irresistible treat with layers of buttery oat crumble and sweet, juicy blueberries. Their versatility makes them a perfect addition to breakfast, a mid-afternoon snack, or even dessert. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is great for both novice and experienced bakers. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or chilled from the fridge, these bars are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Prepare a batch today and savor the delightful combination of flavors and textures!