Blueberry Oatmeal Crumb Bars: A 7-Ingredient Gluten-Free, Vegan Delight

If you’re looking for a delicious and wholesome treat, these 7-Ingredient Blueberry Oatmeal Crumb Bars are perfect! They bring together the sweet, juicy flavor of blueberries with the hearty goodness of oats, creating a satisfying dessert that’s both gluten-free and vegan. Plus, it’s easy to whip up with just a few simple ingredients.

Why make this recipe

These crumb bars are not only delightful to eat but also packed with nutrients. The combination of oats and almond flour provides fiber and healthy fats, while the blueberries add antioxidants and natural sweetness. They’re great for breakfast, a mid-day snack, or a healthy dessert option. And they’re incredibly simple to make, perfect for both novice and experienced bakers alike!

Ingredients

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1 cup almond flour
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted
• 1 1/2 cups blueberries (fresh or frozen)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

How to make it

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8 inch baking dish.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond flour, salt, and cinnamon. Mix well.
3. Pour in the melted coconut oil and maple syrup, stirring until the mixture is crumbly.
4. Press half of the oat mixture into the bottom of the prepared dish, creating a firm base.
5. Spread the blueberries evenly over the base.
6. Crumble the remaining oat mixture on top of the blueberries.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
8. Allow to cool before cutting into bars. Enjoy!

How to serve it

Once cooled, cut the bars into squares or rectangles. They are lovely on their own but can be served with a dollop of coconut yogurt or a drizzle of maple syrup for added flavor. These bars pair well with a cup of tea or coffee, making them a great snack for any time of the day.

How to store it

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. For longer storage, you can keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to place parchment paper between layers if you stack them to avoid sticking.

Helpful tips

• Make sure the coconut oil is melted but not hot, to avoid cooking the oats when combined.
• If using frozen blueberries, there’s no need to thaw them; just toss them directly onto the base.
• Adjust the amount of maple syrup to your taste preference, especially if you like it sweeter.

Optional variations

• Add nuts or seeds for extra crunch. Chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds can add a nice texture.
• Experiment with different fruits like raspberries or chopped apples for a change in flavor.
• If you prefer a sweeter option, sprinkle a little brown sugar or coconut sugar on top before baking.

Frequently asked questions

Can I substitute the almond flour?
Yes, you can use other flours like oat flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Keep in mind that it may change the texture slightly.

How can I make these bars less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of maple syrup by a few tablespoons based on your sweetness preference.

Can I make these bars without oats?
Oats are a key ingredient for the texture of these bars, so it’s best to include them. However, if you have an oat allergy, you might experiment with ground nuts but be aware this may alter the consistency.

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