Blueberry Oat Bars are the perfect balance of sweet and wholesome. With a rich buttery oat crust and a luscious blueberry filling, this treat offers a satisfying mix of textures and flavors. Whether you enjoy these bars as a breakfast option, a mid-day snack, or a dessert, their fruity jam and fresh blueberry center will add a burst of summer to your palate. These bars are quick and easy to make, and they pair perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or tea. Let’s dive into this recipe that’s sure to become a favorite.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

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
¾ cup (190g) blueberry jam

1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grease or line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Oat Base and Crumble

In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of oats, 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour, ¾ cup packed brown sugar, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt. Stir until well combined.

Add the melted butter to the mixture, and stir until the ingredients are evenly moistened and form a crumbly texture.

Step 3: Assemble the Base Layer

Press ⅔ of the oat mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan. Use your fingers or the back of a spoon to evenly flatten and pack the mixture into a firm crust.

Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes until it begins to firm up and lightly brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.

Step 4: Prepare the Blueberry Filling

Spread the blueberry jam evenly over the pre-baked oat crust. Ensure you cover the entire surface with a smooth layer.

Sprinkle fresh or frozen blueberries over the jam layer. Distribute them evenly for a balanced blueberry flavor in each bite.

Step 5: Add the Crumble Topping

Crumble the remaining oat mixture over the blueberry layer. This will create a textured and crispy topping that complements the soft blueberry filling.

Gently press the crumble layer down with your hands or a spatula to ensure it adheres to the filling.

Step 6: Bake the Bars

Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the blueberry filling is bubbling around the edges.

Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 20-30 minutes before slicing.

Cooking Tips:

For a more even texture, use quick oats, but rolled oats give a heartier, chewier base and crumble.
Use any berry jam if you don’t have blueberry jam on hand. Raspberry, strawberry, or mixed berry jam would also work wonderfully.

Frozen blueberries can be used directly from the freezer. No need to thaw them before adding them to the filling.
If you prefer a sweeter bar, sprinkle a tablespoon of sugar over the blueberries before adding the crumble topping.
For a twist, add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the oat mixture for a fresh, zesty flavor that pairs perfectly with blueberries.

Storage:

At room temperature: Store these bars in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
In the refrigerator: You can refrigerate the bars for up to 1 week to extend their shelf life.
In the freezer: These bars freeze beautifully. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving – 12 Bars):

Calories: 280 kcal
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 37g

Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Fiber: 2g

Sugar: 17g
Sodium: 120mg

FAQs:

Can I make these bars gluten-free?
- Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and ensure the oats are certified gluten-free.
Can I use different fruits in the filling?
- Absolutely! You can experiment with different types of fruit jams and fresh fruit, such as strawberries, raspberries, or even peaches.

Do I have to use brown sugar?
- Brown sugar adds a rich, caramel-like flavor, but you can replace it with granulated sugar or coconut sugar for a different taste profile.
What if I don’t have fresh blueberries?
- Frozen blueberries work perfectly well in this recipe. You don’t need to thaw them before baking.
How do I know when the bars are fully baked?
- The bars are done when the top is golden brown and the blueberry filling is bubbling around the edges. Allow them to cool fully for easier slicing.

Conclusion:

Blueberry Oat Bars are a versatile and delightful treat that combines the wholesome goodness of oats with the sweet and tangy flavor of blueberries. Whether you make them for a family snack, a potluck, or a dessert to impress your guests, these bars are sure to become a favorite. With a perfect balance of crispy oats and juicy fruit, they’re a great way to enjoy seasonal berries or to use up frozen blueberries you have on hand. Plus, they’re easy to make and store, allowing you to have a delicious homemade snack ready anytime. Enjoy these tasty bars with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence!