Blackberry Oatmeal Breakfast Bars are a delightful fusion of tangy blackberries and hearty oatmeal, creating a treat that’s both nutritious and delicious. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even a light dessert, these bars offer a wholesome option that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

1 cup old-fashioned oats
3/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for GF version)
1/3 cup light brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (or coconut oil for vegan version)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups fresh blackberries
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, mix together the oats, flour, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt.
Stir in the melted butter and vanilla extract until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Reserve 1/2 cup of the oat mixture for the topping. Press the remaining mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.
In a separate bowl, toss the blackberries with granulated sugar and cornstarch until evenly coated. Spread this blackberry mixture evenly over the crust.
Sprinkle the reserved oat mixture over the top of the blackberries.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the blackberry filling is bubbly.
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting into squares.

Nutrients

Per serving (1 bar):

Calories: Approximately 180
Total Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg
Sodium: 70mg
Total Carbohydrates: 27g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 12g
Protein: 3g

The Versatility of Blackberry Oatmeal Breakfast Bars

These bars are not only ideal for breakfast, but they also make for a great snack or light dessert. The combination of oats and fresh blackberries provides a natural source of energy, while the addition of butter and a sprinkle of brown sugar elevates the flavor and texture, making it satisfying without being overly indulgent. Whether you’re looking for something to grab on your way out the door or a wholesome option to pack in a lunchbox, these Blackberry Oatmeal Breakfast Bars deliver on both taste and convenience.

A Perfect Balance of Nutrients

One of the standout qualities of these breakfast bars is their balance of macronutrients. The oats, which serve as the base of the bars, provide a hearty dose of fiber, making them a great choice for keeping you full and satisfied throughout the morning. Oats are also an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, ensuring a slow and steady release of energy to keep you energized.

The addition of blackberries not only brings a burst of color to these bars but also offers a wealth of health benefits. Blackberries are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber. These nutrients are crucial for boosting the immune system, supporting digestive health, and fighting oxidative stress. Antioxidants like flavonoids and anthocyanins, found abundantly in blackberries, are known to promote brain health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

The butter used in the recipe adds a rich, creamy texture, and if you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, coconut oil can be substituted for a vegan version. Coconut oil is also a healthy fat source, offering benefits such as supporting heart health and boosting energy levels. When combined with the natural sweetness of light brown sugar and the subtle warmth of vanilla extract, these ingredients come together to create a treat that’s satisfying and balanced.

The Benefits of Oats in Breakfast Bars

Oats are the star ingredient in these Blackberry Oatmeal Breakfast Bars. Aside from their wonderful texture and flavor, oats have numerous health benefits, making them a staple in any nutritious diet.

High in Soluble Fiber: Oats are an excellent source of soluble fiber, which is known to help lower cholesterol levels, regulate blood sugar levels, and promote healthy digestion. This soluble fiber, called beta-glucan, forms a gel-like substance in the gut, which helps regulate blood sugar and improve insulin sensitivity.
Supports Heart Health: The soluble fiber in oats also aids in reducing bad cholesterol (LDL), contributing to better cardiovascular health. Regular consumption of oats has been linked to a decreased risk of heart disease.
Rich in Essential Vitamins and Minerals: Oats are packed with essential nutrients, including vitamins B1, B5, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc, which are important for overall health and energy production. The presence of magnesium and zinc supports healthy bones, immune function, and energy metabolism.
Helps Manage Weight: Due to their high fiber content, oats are incredibly filling, helping to curb hunger and reduce the likelihood of overeating. Incorporating oats into your breakfast or snacks, like in these breakfast bars, can assist with weight management by keeping you satisfied for longer.
Improves Gut Health: Oats are prebiotics, meaning they provide food for the beneficial bacteria in the gut. This can help improve gut health by promoting a healthy balance of gut flora, leading to better digestion and absorption of nutrients.

Making Blackberry Oatmeal Breakfast Bars

These bars come together with minimal effort, making them a great option for meal prepping for the week ahead. The process of creating these bars is simple, starting with the oatmeal mixture that forms the base and topping. The sweetness of the brown sugar and the subtle flavor of vanilla balance beautifully with the tartness of the blackberries, creating a treat that isn’t overly sweet but just right.

The addition of the fresh blackberry filling is what sets these bars apart. Mixing the berries with sugar and cornstarch thickens the filling slightly and helps the fruit retain its natural juices while baking, ensuring that the bars hold together and maintain their texture. The result is a perfectly set filling that complements the crunchy oat topping.

This recipe can be customized in several ways to suit your preferences. For a more indulgent version, try adding a handful of dark chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the oat mixture. You could also swap the blackberries for other fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or even apples. Experimenting with different fruit fillings can make these bars suitable for various seasons, ensuring they are a year-round favorite.

A Wholesome Snack or Breakfast Option

In today’s fast-paced world, grabbing a quick breakfast or snack is essential, but it’s also important to prioritize nutritious foods that fuel the body. These Blackberry Oatmeal Breakfast Bars fit the bill perfectly, offering a balanced mix of protein, fiber, and healthy fats that will keep you feeling satisfied and energized throughout the day. With the right mix of wholesome ingredients, these bars can be easily enjoyed on the go or as a sit-down treat with a cup of coffee or tea.

How to Serve and Store

These bars can be enjoyed as a standalone breakfast or paired with yogurt for added protein. For a slightly sweeter touch, try serving them with a drizzle of honey or a spoonful of Greek yogurt on top. You can also add a few extra berries as a garnish to enhance the presentation and add an additional burst of flavor.

When it comes to storing these breakfast bars, they keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them fresh for a longer period, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. These bars also freeze well, making them a great option for batch cooking. Simply wrap them individually and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature or heat them in the microwave for a warm, comforting snack.

Conclusion: A Delicious, Nutritious Start to Your Day

In conclusion, Blackberry Oatmeal Breakfast Bars are a perfect balance of health and indulgence. They provide a delightful combination of tangy fruit and hearty oats, packed with nutrients that support your overall health. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a light dessert, these bars offer a simple yet delicious way to incorporate more wholesome ingredients into your diet. With their ease of preparation and versatility, they are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give these bars a try, and you’ll find they quickly become a favorite for both their flavor and their nutrition.

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