Blueberry Maple Syrup Oat Squares

Maple Blueberry Oat Bars Recipe

These Maple Blueberry Oat Bars combine the sweet, earthy flavors of maple syrup and the vibrant burst of blueberries with the comforting texture of oats. These bars are perfect for breakfast, snacking, or even a wholesome dessert.

Introduction

Maple syrup's warm and inviting sweetness harmonizes beautifully with the tangy burst of blueberries in the Maple Blueberry Oat Bars. These bars are more than a delightful treat—they're a wholesome fusion of flavors and nutrients that showcase the versatility of maple syrup in both baking and culinary creations. Let's embark on a journey to discover the magic that happens when maple syrup meets blueberries in this delectable recipe.

A Symphony of Tastes

The foundation of Maple Blueberry Oat Bars is twofold: the oat base and crumble and the vibrant blueberry filling. The oat mixture forms a rustic and hearty layer, both as the base and the topping. This creates a satisfying contrast in texture against the velvety blueberry filling. The blueberry filling, infused with maple syrup's gentle sweetness and balanced by lemon juice's zesty brightness, encapsulates the essence of summer. The result is a symphony of tastes that marries comfort with freshness.

A Nutrient-Packed Delight

These bars are more than just a delightful indulgence; they're also packed with nutrients. Blueberries, known for their antioxidant-rich properties, lend a burst of color and healthful benefits to each bite. The oats contribute dietary fiber, offering a satisfying and wholesome element. And at the heart of it all, pure maple syrup provides a natural, unrefined sweetener with its own share of vitamins and minerals.

Versatility and Delight

Maple Blueberry Oat Bars embrace versatility. They're an ideal breakfast companion, a hearty snack for those midday cravings, or a guilt-free dessert that satisfies your sweet tooth. Whether enjoyed with a cup of morning coffee, packed in a lunchbox, or savored as an after-dinner treat, these bars embody the comfort of homemade goodness.

Conclusion

The marriage of maple syrup and blueberries in these oat bars showcases the power of culinary creativity. It's a testament to the magic that unfolds when natural ingredients are combined with care and imagination. As you savor each bite of the Maple Blueberry Oat Bars, you're not only indulging in a delicious treat but also experiencing the delightful union of flavors, the wholesomeness of oats, and the richness of maple syrup—a true testament to the wonders that can be created in the kitchen.

Ingredients:

For the Oat Base and Crumble:

• 1 ½ cups old-fashioned oats
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Blueberry Filling:

• 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
• ¼ cup pure maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

2. In a large bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt for the oat base and crumble.

3. Pour in the melted butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

4. Press about two-thirds of the oat mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the base layer.

5. In a saucepan, combine the blueberries, maple syrup, granulated sugar, and lemon juice for the blueberry filling. Heat over medium heat until the mixture begins to simmer.

6. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a teaspoon of water to create a slurry. Add the slurry to the blueberry mixture and stir well. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.

7. Pour the blueberry filling evenly over the oat base.

8. Crumble the remaining oat mixture over the blueberry filling.

9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the blueberry filling is bubbling.

10. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before using the parchment paper overhang to lift them out.

11. Once cooled, cut the bars into squares or rectangles and enjoy!