Imagine biting into a perfectly balanced bar that combines the natural sweetness of honey, the burst of fresh blueberries, and the hearty goodness of oats - all in one delectable treat! These Honey Blueberry Oatmeal Bars are not just a recipe; they're a morning game-changer that will transform your breakfast routine from mundane to magnificent. Whether you're a busy professional, a health-conscious foodie, or simply someone who loves a delicious homemade snack, these bars are about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/2 cup blueberries
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring the paper overhangs on two sides for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, salt, and ground cinnamon. Mix thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly throughout the oats.
- In a separate microwave-safe bowl, warm the honey and almond butter together for 30-45 seconds. Stir until smooth and well combined, creating a glossy liquid mixture.
- Pour the warm honey-almond butter mixture over the dry oats. Stir carefully until all oats are completely coated and the mixture becomes cohesive.
- Gently fold in the fresh blueberries, being careful not to crush them, distributing them evenly throughout the oat mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan, pressing down firmly and evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon to create a compact layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and the top looks set.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan for at least 1 hour. This cooling period allows the bars to firm up and become easier to cut.
- Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the entire batch out of the pan and place on a cutting board. Slice into 8 even bars using a sharp knife.
- Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness.
Tips
- Choose high-quality ingredients: Use fresh, plump blueberries and pure honey for the best flavor profile.
- Don't overmix the blueberries to prevent them from breaking and creating a soggy texture.
- Press the mixture firmly into the pan to ensure compact, well-formed bars.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to help them set and maintain their shape.
- For extra nutrition, consider adding chopped nuts or a sprinkle of chia seeds to the mixture.
- If you prefer a crispier texture, you can toast the oats lightly before mixing them with other ingredients.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the bars from becoming too dry.
- For a dairy-free and gluten-free option, ensure you use certified gluten-free oats and check your almond butter's ingredients.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
