Chewy Blueberry Granola Bars

If you’re on the lookout for a wholesome snack that’s both delicious and easy to make, look no further than these Chewy Blueberry Granola Bars. Packed with the goodness of oats, seeds, and dried blueberries, they provide a delightful mix of chewy and crunchy textures. Perfect for breakfast on the go or an afternoon pick-me-up, these granola bars are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into why you’ll keep making them!

Why You’ll Keep Making It

These Chewy Blueberry Granola Bars are not just a snack; they are an experience. The combination of flavors and textures makes them incredibly satisfying. Each bite is bursting with the natural sweetness of dried blueberries and the nutty crunch of almonds and seeds. They’re also customizable, allowing you to swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Plus, they are free from artificial additives, making them a healthy choice for you and your family.

Ingredients at a Glance

To make these delightful bars, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats, toasted
• 1/2 cup whole almonds, coarsely chopped
• 1/3 cup dried blueberries
• 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon allspice
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons brown rice syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

What’s in the Gear List

Before you start, make sure you have the following gear:

• Mixing bowl – for combining your dry ingredients and wet ingredients.
• Baking pan – an 8×8 inch pan works perfectly for these bars.
• Parchment paper – for easy removal of the granola bars.
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient measurements.
• Spatula – for mixing and spreading the mixture evenly in the baking pan.

Chewy Blueberry Granola Bars: How It’s Done

Making these Chewy Blueberry Granola Bars is straightforward. Follow these steps for a perfect batch every time.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps to toast the oats and seeds, bringing out their natural flavors.

Step 2: Toast the Oats and Seeds

Spread the old-fashioned rolled oats, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds on a baking sheet. Toast them in the oven for about 10 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are golden and fragrant.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted oats and seeds with the coarsely chopped almonds, dried blueberries, kosher salt, cinnamon, and allspice. Stir until everything is evenly distributed.

Step 4: Prepare the Wet Mixture

In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, brown rice syrup, and vanilla extract. Make sure the mixture is well combined.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Use a spatula to mix everything together until all the dry ingredients are coated and sticky.

Step 6: Press into the Pan

Line your baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later. Transfer the granola mixture into the pan and press it down firmly with your spatula. Make sure it is evenly distributed and compact.

Step 7: Bake

Bake the granola bars in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Step 8: Cool and Cut

Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely. Once cooled, lift the bars out using the parchment paper overhang and cut them into squares or rectangles.

Dietary Swaps & Alternatives

For those looking to make adjustments, here are some great alternatives:

• Use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan option.
• Swap out the almonds for walnuts or pecans if you have a nut allergy.
• Replace dried blueberries with raisins or cranberries for a different flavor.
• For a gluten-free version, make sure to use certified gluten-free oats.

Don’t Do This

When making your Chewy Blueberry Granola Bars, avoid the following common mistakes:

• Don’t skip toasting the oats and seeds; it enhances the flavor significantly.
• Don’t overbake; the bars should be golden but not burnt.
• Don’t skip the step of pressing the mixture firmly into the pan; this helps the bars hold together.
• Don’t forget to let them cool completely before cutting, or they may crumble.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

Once your Chewy Blueberry Granola Bars are cooled and cut, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the bars individually wrapped in plastic wrap, then placed in a freezer bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.

Quick Q&A

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

While you can use quick oats, they will result in a different texture—more crumbly than chewy. Rolled oats are recommended for the best results.

Can I make these granola bars nut-free?

Yes! You can substitute the almonds with additional seeds or oats to keep the texture intact. Just ensure all ingredients are nut-free.

How can I enhance the flavor of these bars?

Feel free to add in extras like chocolate chips, coconut flakes, or other dried fruits to elevate the flavor profile.

Are these granola bars high in protein?

While they do contain protein from the nuts and seeds, you can increase the protein content by adding protein powder to the mixture or incorporating more nuts.

If you enjoyed making these , you might also like these delicious recipes:

The Takeaway

These Chewy Blueberry Granola Bars are not just a snack; they are a wholesome treat that you can feel good about eating. Easy to make and packed with nutritious ingredients, they are perfect for any time of the day. Whether you need a quick breakfast, a satisfying snack, or a sweet treat, these bars have got you covered. Go ahead, give them a try, and watch how quickly they become a family favorite!

Share on Pinterest