Why You’ll Love Blueberry Oatmeal Breakfast Bars Recipe

These blueberry oatmeal bars strike the perfect balance between indulgent and nutritious. They’re naturally sweetened with blueberries and a touch of sugar, offering a chewy, satisfying bite that feels more like a treat than a healthy breakfast. You’ll love how easy they are to make with simple pantry staples. They’re also kid-approved, great for meal prepping, and can be adapted to fit gluten-free or dairy-free needs. Ideal for busy mornings or on-the-go snacks!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup old-fashioned oats
¾ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
⅓ cup light brown sugar
¼ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (or coconut oil)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen)
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons cornstarch

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
In a large bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
Add melted butter and vanilla extract to the dry mixture and stir until the mixture becomes crumbly.
Press half of the oat mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create the base layer.
In a separate bowl, toss blueberries with granulated sugar and cornstarch until evenly coated.
Spread the blueberry mixture over the base layer.
Crumble the remaining oat mixture on top of the blueberries and gently press down.
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the blueberry layer is bubbling.
Let the bars cool completely in the pan before lifting them out and cutting into squares.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 bars
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Approximate Calories: 190 kcal per bar

Variations

Gluten-Free: Use a certified gluten-free flour blend and oats.
Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut oil or vegan butter for the unsalted butter.
Low-Sugar: Reduce the brown sugar and granulated sugar slightly or use a sugar substitute like coconut sugar or monk fruit.
Add-ins: Mix in chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for extra crunch.
Other Fruits: Swap the blueberries with raspberries, strawberries, or mixed berries.

Storage/Reheating

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze the bars for up to 3 months—just separate layers with parchment paper. To enjoy warm, microwave a bar for 10–15 seconds.

FAQs

What kind of oats should I use?

Old-fashioned rolled oats are ideal for texture and structure in these bars. Avoid quick oats or steel-cut oats.

Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, frozen blueberries work perfectly. No need to thaw them—just toss with sugar and cornstarch as directed.

How do I make these bars vegan?

Use coconut oil or plant-based butter instead of regular butter to keep the recipe fully vegan.

Do I need to use cornstarch with the berries?

Yes, the cornstarch thickens the blueberry layer, preventing it from becoming too runny.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, you can reduce the brown sugar and granulated sugar slightly if you prefer less sweetness. Just note it may affect texture.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Adjust baking time slightly if needed.

How do I know when the bars are done?

The top should be golden brown and the blueberry layer should be bubbling around the edges.

Are these bars kid-friendly?

Definitely! They’re a nutritious, sweet snack that’s perfect for kids’ lunches or after-school treats.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, they’re great for meal prepping. Make a batch ahead and store in the fridge or freezer.

Can I add protein to these bars?

You can mix in a scoop of unflavored or vanilla protein powder into the oat mixture, though it may slightly change the texture.

Conclusion

These Blueberry Oatmeal Breakfast Bars are a wholesome, flavorful option for anyone looking to start their day on a delicious note. Easy to make and endlessly adaptable, they’re perfect for busy mornings, healthy snacking, or even a light dessert. Keep a batch on hand and enjoy the goodness of fruit and oats in every bite.