Have you ever felt the irresistible pull of a sweet, baked treat that’s as wholesome as it is indulgent? One rainy afternoon, I opened my pantry and discovered a wealth of ingredients just waiting to become something delicious. That’s when I decided to whip up these Blueberry Soft Baked Bars—an unexpected delight that turned a simple collection of oats and berries into a cozy dish that filled my kitchen with warmth.
These bars are not just a sweet fix; they’re a nourishing option for anyone craving a homemade snack without the guilt of processed foods. Bursting with juicy blueberries and the crunch of almonds, they offer a wonderful balance of satisfying flavors and textures. Whether you’re looking for a grab-and-go breakfast or a post-workout refuel, these bars are sure to become your new favorite. Let’s dive into the easy steps to create these delectable treats that will impress even the most modest of bakers!
Why are Blueberry Soft Baked Bars perfect for you?
Wholesome goodness: Packed with nutritious ingredients, these bars are a great alternative to store-bought snacks.
Easy preparation: Simply mix, roll, and bake—perfect for busy lifestyles!
Delightful flavors: The sweet blueberries and earthy almonds create a mouthwatering combination.
Versatile options: Enjoy them as breakfast, a snack, or a dessert!
Healthy energy boost: With oats and chia seeds, they provide lasting energy without the crash.
Crowd-pleaser: These bars will impress family and friends, making them ideal for sharing!
Blueberry Soft Baked Bars Ingredients
For the Base
• Oat flour – Ideal for a gluten-free base, giving a hearty texture to your bars.
• Ground almonds – Adds healthy fats and a lovely nutty flavor to the mix.
• Baking powder – Helps the bars rise for that perfect soft and chewy texture.
• Cinnamon – A warm spice that enhances the sweetness of the blueberries.
• Salt – A pinch to balance the flavors and bring out the sweetness.
For the Sweetness
• Maple syrup or honey – Choose your favorite for a natural sweetener that harmonizes with the oats.
• Coconut oil, melted – Provides healthy fats and a subtle coconut flavor that complements the blueberries.
For the Binding
• Milled flaxseed or ground chia seeds – Acts as a binding agent and adds extra fiber and omega-3s.
• Water – Hydrates the flaxseed to create a gel-like consistency that holds the bars together.
For the Filling
• Frozen blueberries – Bursting with flavor and antioxidants, they’re the star of the show!
• Chia seeds – These little gems help thicken the blueberry filling and add a delightful crunch.
For Extra Flavor
• Lemon juice – A splash of brightness that enhances the blueberry flavor and balances sweetness.
• Additional maple syrup (to taste) – Drizzle more if you love a sweeter bar, tailoring it to your palate.
These delicious Blueberry Soft Baked Bars are a wholesome and delightful addition to your snack repertoire!
How to Make Blueberry Soft Baked Bars
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Combine blueberries: In a small saucepan, add the frozen blueberries, maple syrup, and lemon juice. Gently cook over low/medium heat, mashing the blueberries with a wooden spoon until fully blended. Remove from heat and mix in chia seeds, then let cool completely.
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Prepare flaxseed mixture: In a small bowl, whisk the milled flaxseed and water together. Allow it to set for 10-15 minutes until it thickens into a gel-like consistency.
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Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine oat flour, ground almonds, baking powder, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Pour in the maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and the set flaxseed mixture. Stir everything until well combined.
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Shape the dough: Divide the dough into two equal parts. Roll each half between two sheets of parchment paper into a rectangle about 1/4″ thick. Trim any ragged edges to create neat shapes.
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Fill and fold: Spread the cooled blueberry filling along the center of each rectangle. Gently fold one side of the dough over the jam, followed by the other side, encasing the filling securely.
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Slice bars: Carefully roll the log of dough so that the seam is facing down. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into 6 equal bars.
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Bake: Place the bars in an air fryer at 180°C for 10-12 minutes, or in a preheated oven at 180°C/160°C fan/350°F for 20-25 minutes, until they turn golden brown.
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Cool and enjoy: Allow the bars to cool completely before indulging in these delicious treats!
Optional: Drizzle with extra honey or maple syrup for an added touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Blueberry Soft Baked Bars?
Imagine indulging in these sweet, wholesome delights while sipping your favorite beverage or pairing them with something savory. The perfect meal accompaniment makes for a truly memorable experience.
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Greek Yogurt: A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt adds a refreshing tang and protein boost, elevating your snack into a delightful breakfast.
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Nut Butter: Spread almond or peanut butter on top for a rich, satisfying taste that complements the sweetness of the blueberries.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant medley of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the bars, offering a refreshing crunch with every bite.
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Coconut Chia Pudding: The creamy chia pudding pairs beautifully with the texture of the bars, while adding extra fiber and omega-3s for a healthy snack.
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Herbal Tea: A warm cup of chamomile or mint tea creates a cozy atmosphere, perfect for enjoying these bars with a delightful contrast in flavors.
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Dark Chocolate: For those with a sweet tooth, a few squares of dark chocolate alongside the bars make for a decadent pairing that elevates your snack time.
Enjoy these combinations as you create new moments filled with warmth and deliciousness!
Make Ahead Options
These Blueberry Soft Baked Bars are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the blueberry filling up to 3 days in advance by cooking it and storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. Additionally, the dough can be mixed and shaped into bars, then wrapped tightly and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. To maintain the quality, be sure to keep the filling and dough separate until you’re ready to bake. When it’s time to enjoy, simply assemble, bake, and you’ll have freshly made bars that are just as delicious as the day you prepped them—perfect for busy weeknights or quick snacks on the go!
Expert Tips for Blueberry Soft Baked Bars
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Ingredient Quality: Use high-quality frozen blueberries for maximum flavor. Fresh, ripe blueberries can also work, but be sure to adjust the cooking time.
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Texture Control: To avoid dry bars, don’t overbake. Keep an eye on them, and remove them just as they turn golden brown for a soft texture.
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Binding Agents: Make sure to allow your flaxseed and water mixture to set fully; this is crucial for the bars to hold together properly without falling apart.
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Cleaning Up: Use parchment paper for easy rolling and cleanup. It will save you time and keep your work surface mess-free while shaping your Blueberry Soft Baked Bars.
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Flavor Adjustments: Don’t hesitate to adjust the sweetness by adding more maple syrup to the blueberry filling if that’s your preference. Taste as you go!
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Storage Tips: Store leftover bars in an airtight container. These bars freeze beautifully, so make a double batch and enjoy them anytime!
Storage Tips for Blueberry Soft Baked Bars
Room Temperature: Keep these soft baked bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their delightful texture.
Fridge: For extended freshness, store in the fridge for up to 1 week. Make sure they are well covered to prevent drying out.
Freezer: Store in a freezer-safe container or wrap each bar individually for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to warm them up, restoring their soft and chewy goodness.
Blueberry Soft Baked Bars Variations
Feel free to transform your baking experience with these delightful twists that cater to every taste bud.
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Vegan: Replace honey with an equal amount of agave syrup and use ground chia seeds instead of flaxseed.
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Nut-Free: Swap ground almonds with sunflower seed flour for a nut-free alternative without sacrificing flavor.
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Granola Boost: Add 1/4 cup of your favorite granola into the dough for extra crunch and texture.
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Zesty Lemon: Incorporate the zest of one lemon into the batter for a refreshing citrus kick that brightens the flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the blueberry filling for a surprising spicy twist that plays beautifully with the sweetness.
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Choco Delight: Sprinkle in dark chocolate chips when mixing the base for indulgent chocolatey bars that will satisfy your sweet tooth!
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Adjusting Sweetness: Feel free to reduce the maple syrup to make this recipe less sweet and perfect for those monitoring their sugar intake.
These variations are just the beginning; let your culinary creativity shine as you make this recipe your own!
Blueberry Soft Baked Bars Recipe FAQs
What type of blueberries should I use?
Absolutely! I recommend using high-quality frozen blueberries for maximum flavor. If you’re lucky enough to have fresh, ripe blueberries, they can also work—just remember to adjust the cooking time as fresh berries can break down faster.
How should I store the Blueberry Soft Baked Bars?
For room temperature storage, keep these bars in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you prefer keeping them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 1 week, but make sure they are well covered to retain moisture.
Can I freeze these bars for later?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your Blueberry Soft Baked Bars, wrap each bar individually or place them in a freezer-safe container. They can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge, and you can pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to warm them up nicely.
What should I do if my bars become too dry while baking?
Very important! To avoid dry bars, don’t overbake them. Keep a close eye during the last few minutes in the oven. As soon as they turn golden brown, take them out to keep that lovely soft texture. If you do find they’re dry, I suggest enjoying them with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of yogurt to add moisture.
Are these bars safe for pets or allergy-friendly?
While these bars are great for humans, please avoid giving them to pets, especially those with allergies to nuts or seeds. They contain ground almonds and chia seeds, which can be a concern for some individuals. If you’re preparing them for someone with allergies, you can substitute the almonds with sunflower seed flour or omit nuts altogether.
How can I increase the sweetness of the blueberry filling?
Of course! You can easily adjust the sweetness of the blueberry mixture. If you find it needs more sweetness, simply add additional maple syrup while cooking the blueberries, tasting as you go to reach your desired level. The flexibility of this recipe allows you to customize it to your taste!
Delicious Blueberry Soft Baked Bars for Easy Snacking
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small saucepan, cook frozen blueberries with maple syrup and lemon juice, mashing until blended. Mix in chia seeds and let cool.
- In a small bowl, whisk milled flaxseed and water. Let set for 10-15 minutes until thickened.
- In a large bowl, combine oat flour, ground almonds, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Add maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and flaxseed mixture; stir until well combined.
- Divide dough into two parts and roll between parchment paper into rectangles about 1/4" thick; trim edges.
- Spread cooled blueberry filling in center of each rectangle and fold edges over to encase filling.
- Roll log of dough with seam side down and slice into 6 equal bars.
- Bake in air fryer at 180°C for 10-12 minutes or in a preheated oven at 180°C/160°C fan/350°F for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow to cool completely before serving.