Mixed Berry Oatmeal Breakfast Bars

These Mixed Berry Oatmeal Breakfast Bars are a delightful fusion of wholesome oats and juicy berries, creating a treat that’s both nutritious and satisfying. The crumbly oatmeal crust and topping encase a gooey mixed berry filling, offering a burst of natural sweetness in every bite. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack, these bars are gluten-free, vegan, and free from refined sugars, making them a guilt-free indulgence. Preparing these bars is straightforward, utilizing simple ingredients like rolled oats, almond flour, and a medley of your favorite frozen berries. Whether you’re enjoying them at home with a cup of coffee or packing them for an on-the-go snack, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Berry Filling:

• 3 cups frozen mixed berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

• 2 tablespoons coconut sugar

• 1 tablespoon maple syrup

• 1/8 teaspoon sea salt

• 2 tablespoons tapioca starch

For the Oatmeal Crust and Topping:

• 2 cups rolled oats (ensure gluten-free if needed)

• 1 cup blanched almond flour

• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

• 1/3 cup melted coconut oil

• 1/3 cup maple syrup

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Prepare the Berry Filling: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the frozen mixed berries, lemon juice, coconut sugar, maple syrup, and sea salt. Stir occasionally until the berries release their juices and the mixture becomes soupy. In a small bowl, mix the tapioca starch with a few tablespoons of the berry liquid to create a slurry. Stir this slurry back into the berry mixture and cook for an additional minute until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and let it cool.

2. Prepare the Oatmeal Crust and Topping: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond flour, baking soda, and sea salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.

3. Assemble the Bars: Press about two-thirds of the oatmeal mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the crust. Spread the cooled berry filling evenly over the crust. Sprinkle the remaining oatmeal mixture over the berry layer to create the crumble topping.

4. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the pan and cut into squares.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes

Kcal: Approximately 200 kcal per serving | Servings: 9 bars

Mixed Berry Oatmeal Breakfast Bars – A Wholesome, Delicious Treat

Mixed Berry Oatmeal Breakfast Bars are the perfect balance of sweet, chewy, and wholesome goodness. Combining the rich flavors of berries with a hearty oat base, these bars are ideal for a nutritious breakfast or a satisfying snack. Whether you are preparing a grab-and-go breakfast or looking for a healthy dessert alternative, these bars will quickly become a household favorite. Their versatility, ease of preparation, and nutritional benefits make them a staple recipe for anyone seeking to enjoy homemade, clean eating.

Why Choose Homemade Oatmeal Breakfast Bars?

Homemade oatmeal breakfast bars offer several advantages over store-bought alternatives. First, you have complete control over the ingredients, ensuring that your bars are free from artificial preservatives, refined sugars, and unwanted additives. This means you can create a snack that aligns perfectly with your dietary needs and taste preferences.

Additionally, homemade bars are highly customizable. You can swap ingredients based on what you have in your pantry or to accommodate specific dietary restrictions. Whether you are vegan, gluten-free, or simply want to add a nutritional boost, homemade breakfast bars can be tailored to fit your lifestyle. By preparing them at home, you also ensure freshness, which enhances both the taste and texture of your bars.

Nutritional Benefits of Mixed Berry Oatmeal Bars

These Mixed Berry Oatmeal Breakfast Bars are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients that offer numerous health benefits:

• Oats: Rolled oats are a fantastic source of dietary fiber, particularly beta-glucan, which supports heart health, aids digestion, and helps regulate blood sugar levels. They also provide essential vitamins and minerals, including manganese, phosphorus, and magnesium.
• Berries: The mixed berry filling is rich in antioxidants, which combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation. Berries are also high in fiber and vitamin C, supporting immune function and promoting healthy skin. The natural sweetness of berries enhances the flavor without the need for excessive sweeteners.
• Almond Flour: This gluten-free flour adds a subtle nutty flavor while providing a boost of protein and healthy fats. It also makes the bars suitable for those following a gluten-free diet.
• Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener, maple syrup is a healthier alternative to refined sugar. It contains trace minerals like zinc and manganese and adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness to the bars.
• Coconut Oil: Used to bind the crust and topping, coconut oil provides medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) that support energy production and may improve metabolism.

Customizing Your Mixed Berry Oatmeal Bars

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. Here are some ideas to customize your bars:

1. Fruit Variations: While mixed berries are a popular choice, you can experiment with other fruits like cherries, peaches, or apples. Fresh or frozen fruit works well, depending on the season.
2. Sweetness Levels: Adjust the sweetness to your preference by modifying the amount of maple syrup or coconut sugar. For a sugar-free version, you can use a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit.
3. Add-Ins: Boost the nutritional profile by adding chia seeds, flaxseeds, or hemp hearts. You can also stir in shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or even dark chocolate chips for an indulgent twist.
4. Spices: Enhance the flavor with spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom. These warming spices pair beautifully with the fruit and oats.
5. Texture Adjustments: For a softer bar, use quick oats instead of rolled oats. If you prefer a crunchier topping, add a handful of sliced almonds or crushed pecans before baking.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Mixed Berry Oatmeal Breakfast Bars are easy to store and enjoy throughout the week. Here are some tips to keep them fresh and delicious:

1. Storage: Once cooled and cut into squares, store the bars in an airtight container. They will keep at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
2. Freezing: These bars freeze well, making them perfect for meal prep. Place individual bars in a freezer-safe bag or container, and store them for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave before serving.
3. Serving Ideas: Enjoy these bars on their own, paired with a cup of coffee or tea. They also make a great addition to a brunch spread or as a lunchbox treat. For an extra treat, drizzle with almond butter or a dollop of coconut yogurt.

Why These Bars Are Perfect for Meal Prep

Busy mornings call for quick and healthy breakfast options, and these bars fit the bill perfectly. Since they are made in advance, you can simply grab one on your way out the door. This recipe yields a batch large enough to provide breakfast or snacks for the entire week, making it a time-saving solution.

Additionally, these bars are kid-friendly and great for anyone with a sweet tooth who wants a healthier option. They provide sustained energy due to their balance of complex carbs, healthy fats, and natural sweetness, making them an excellent choice for pre- or post-workout snacks.

Conclusion:

Mixed Berry Oatmeal Breakfast Bars are a delightful, nutritious, and versatile treat that is perfect for busy mornings or as a wholesome snack. With a chewy oat crust, a sweet-tart berry filling, and a crumbly topping, these bars offer a satisfying texture and rich flavor. By making them at home, you can control the ingredients and customize the recipe to fit your dietary preferences.

Whether you’re looking for a healthy breakfast option, a midday energy boost, or a sweet treat without the guilt, these oatmeal bars deliver on all fronts. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. Give this recipe a try and experience the perfect blend of health and indulgence in every bite.