Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly balanced treat that's not just delicious, but also kind to your body and the planet. These Blueberry Oatmeal Crumb Bars are a game-changer for anyone craving a sweet, wholesome dessert that checks all the boxes: gluten-free, vegan, and bursting with juicy blueberries. Whether you're a health-conscious foodie or just looking for an irresistible snack that doesn't compromise on flavor, this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 bars
Ingredients
- 2 cups gluten-free rolled oats
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted
- 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x9 inch square baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine gluten-free rolled oats, almond flour, cinnamon, and salt. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
- Pour melted coconut oil and maple syrup into the dry ingredients. Stir until the mixture becomes a crumbly, moist dough that holds together when pressed.
- Press approximately two-thirds of the oat mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, creating an even base layer.
- Spread fresh or frozen blueberries evenly over the oat base, creating a uniform fruit layer.
- Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the blueberries, creating a crumbly top layer that partially covers the fruit.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the blueberries are bubbling.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan for at least 1 hour. This allows the bars to set and makes cutting easier.
- Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Cut into 16 even squares using a sharp knife.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For best texture, let bars come to room temperature before serving.
Tips
- Use fresh or frozen blueberries - both work wonderfully! If using frozen, don't thaw them first to prevent excess moisture.
- For extra crunch, consider adding chopped nuts like almonds or pecans to the crumb mixture.
- Make sure your coconut oil is fully melted but not hot when mixing with dry ingredients.
- Press the base layer firmly to ensure the bars hold together well when cut.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to get clean, neat squares.
- For a flavor twist, try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the crumb mixture.
- Store bars in the refrigerator to maintain their texture and extend shelf life.
- These bars are perfect for meal prep and can be frozen for up to a month!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 0mg
