Healthy Berry Oatmeal Bars Breakfast

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These berry oatmeal bars are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking for a healthy start to your day or a sweet yet nourishing snack, they hit the mark. The recipe uses frozen mixed berries, so you can enjoy them year-round without the need for fresh produce. The oatmeal crust serves double duty as the base and the crumb topping, adding a delightful crunch to every bite. Plus, they’re easy to make in just one bowl and a single saucepan, making cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

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

Mixed Berry Filling

• 2 cups frozen berries (you can use any mixture of small berries)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons coconut sugar
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• a pinch sea salt
• 1 ½ tablespoons tapioca starch (also known as tapioca flour)

Oatmeal Crust and Crumble Topping

• 1 ¾ cups rolled oats (gluten free if needed)
• 1 ¼ cups almond flour (blanched)
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ⅛ teaspoon sea salt
• ½ cup maple syrup
• ⅓ cup coconut oil (solid at room temperature)
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper.

2. Prepare the frozen berries. If using large strawberries, cut them into quarters.

3. In a small saucepan over low-medium heat, add berries, lemon juice, coconut sugar, maple syrup, and sea salt.

4. Cook for 5-10 minutes, or until the berries release their liquid and become soupy.

5. Remove 1-2 tablespoons of the liquid and mix with the tapioca starch in a small cup until smooth. Add this slurry back to the pot and stir for 1 minute as it thickens. Remove from heat and set aside.

6. In a large bowl, mix rolled oats, almond flour, baking soda, and sea salt.

7. Add maple syrup, vanilla extract, and solid coconut oil. Mix using a fork, then use your hands to fully combine.

8. Reserve ½ to ¾ cup of this mixture for the topping.

9. Press the remaining mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

10. Spread the berry mixture evenly over the oatmeal base.

11. Sprinkle the reserved oatmeal mixture over the berry layer using your fingers. You can create small or large crumbles.

12. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden.

13. Let the bars cool completely in the dish before slicing.

14. Store in the fridge, lightly covered, for up to a week.

Servings and timing

Servings: 9 bars
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

• Berry Blend: Swap in your favorite frozen fruits like cherries or mango for a tropical twist.

• Sweeteners: Use honey or agave instead of maple syrup if preferred (note: not vegan if using honey).

• Add-ins: Mix chopped nuts or shredded coconut into the crumble topping for added texture.

• Spices: Add cinnamon or nutmeg to the crust for a warm, spiced flavor.

• Flour Options: Substitute almond flour with oat flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour if needed.

Storage/Reheating

Store these bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them individually wrapped in parchment and stored in a sealed container or bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, microwave a bar for 15-20 seconds or enjoy chilled straight from the fridge.

FAQs

1. What kind of berries work best for these oatmeal bars?

Any small frozen berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries work well. Avoid large strawberries unless chopped.

2. Can I use fresh berries instead of frozen?

Yes, but you may need to reduce the cooking time slightly since fresh berries release less water.

3. Are these bars gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free rolled oats.

4. Can I use another flour besides almond flour?

Yes, oat flour or a gluten-free flour blend can be substituted, though texture may vary.

5. Do I have to use coconut oil?

Coconut oil helps with texture and flavor, but you could substitute it with vegan butter or regular butter if not vegan.

6. How do I know when the bars are done baking?

Look for lightly golden edges and a firm top crumble. The center will set as it cools.

7. Why do the bars need to cool completely before slicing?

Cooling helps the bars firm up and hold their shape. Slicing too early may cause them to fall apart.

8. Can I make these bars sugar-free?

You can try using sugar-free maple syrup alternatives, but the flavor and texture may change.

9. What can I use instead of tapioca starch?

Cornstarch or arrowroot powder are good alternatives for thickening the berry filling.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe and bake it in a 9×13-inch pan. Just slightly increase the baking time.

Conclusion

These Healthy Berry Oatmeal Bars are a simple yet satisfying way to enjoy a nutritious breakfast or snack. With their naturally sweet berry center and hearty oat base, they’re perfect for meal prep or sharing. Whether you’re following a gluten-free or vegan lifestyle—or just love a good fruity treat—these bars are a wholesome delight you’ll want to make again and again.

Print