Lemon Blueberry Oat Bars

Name: Lemon Blueberry Oat Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1 cup almond flour; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/3 cup coconut oil, melted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Zest and juice of 1 large lemon; 1 cup fresh blueberries; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Easy Desserts Inspiration

I absolutely love these Lemon Blueberry Oat Bars! The combination of zesty lemon and sweet blueberries creates a deliciously refreshing treat that's perfect for any occasion. I enjoy baking a batch over the weekend, and it's one of those recipes that the whole family adores. Plus, knowing that the base is made with oats gives me peace of mind, as they add a healthy twist. I often enjoy them as a snack or even for breakfast, accompanied by a nice cup of tea. You’ll want to have this recipe on hand!

Created by

Nicola Fairchild

Last updated on 2026-02-16T12:11:37.675Z

When I first decided to experiment with oat bars, I wanted something that combined my love for citrus with a taste of summer. That's how these Lemon Blueberry Oat Bars were born! I remember the first time I served them to friends, and they vanished within minutes. The secret is in the perfect balance of tart lemon juice and sweet blueberries, which creates a delightful harmony in every bite.

During my testing phase, I tried various combinations, but what worked best was using fresh blueberries and a hint of zest to really amplify the flavors. This not only enhances the taste but makes the bars extra fragrant while baking. Trust me, once you get a whiff of those delightful aromas, you’ll be anxiously waiting for them to come out of the oven!

Why You'll Love These Bars
Zesty lemon flavor that brightens your day
Sweet and juicy blueberries in every bite
Perfectly chewy texture with a satisfying crunch

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in these Lemon Blueberry Oat Bars plays a vital role in creating the perfect texture and flavor. The rolled oats provide a hearty base, giving the bars structure and chewiness while contributing beneficial fiber. Almond flour adds a subtle nuttiness and a gluten-free quality. If you're looking to substitute, oat flour can work well, but you might need a bit less due to its finer texture.

Coconut oil not only binds the ingredients together but also contributes healthy fats that enhance the richness of the bars. Make sure it's melted to prevent clumping in the mixture. If you need a dairy-free option, coconut oil is perfect, but if you prefer a more neutral flavor, you can use vegetable oil or unsalted butter as alternatives.

Perfecting the Baking Process

Baking at the right temperature is crucial for achieving the perfect golden-brown top while ensuring the inside stays chewy. Be sure to monitor the baking time closely; if the edges begin to darken too quickly, you may need to lower the oven temperature slightly to prevent burning. A properly baked bar should spring back lightly to touch and should not appear overly wet in the center.

For optimal results, allow the bars to cool completely before slicing. This cooling period helps them firm up, making slicing easier and preventing crumbling. If you like your bars a little softer, you can reduce the cooling time slightly, but be mindful as they may not hold their shape as well.

Ingredients

Gather the ingredients listed below for these delightful bars!

Ingredients for Lemon Blueberry Oat Bars

2 cups rolled oats
1 cup almond flour
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/3 cup coconut oil, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
1 cup fresh blueberries
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

Now that you have all your ingredients, let's get started on these delicious bars!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Lemon Blueberry Oat Bars:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir until well mixed.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the melted coconut oil, honey or maple syrup, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.

Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until fully combined. Gently fold in the fresh blueberries.

Bake

Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared pan and bake for 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.

Cool and Slice

Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then remove them and let them cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, slice into bars.

Your Lemon Blueberry Oat Bars are ready to enjoy! Store them in an airtight container.

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute the blueberries with raspberries or blackberries for a different flavor! For a little extra sweetness, sprinkle some coconut flakes on top before baking.

Storage and Freshness

These bars are great for meal prep! Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you're looking to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them, which can keep them fresh for up to a week. Alternatively, you can freeze the bars; just wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container. They'll keep for about 3 months in the freezer, and you can enjoy them straight from there or let them thaw at room temperature.

When you’re ready to enjoy a frozen bar, allow it to thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes or microwave it for 15-20 seconds. This not only brings back their original texture but also enhances the flavors, especially the lemon and blueberry notes.

Serving Suggestions

Lemon Blueberry Oat Bars are versatile and can be served in various ways. Enjoy them as a wholesome breakfast option paired with Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of extra blueberries for added texture and nutrition. They make a fantastic on-the-go snack or mid-afternoon pick-me-up alongside a refreshing iced tea or lemonade.

For a more indulgent dessert, drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and lemon juice over the bars after they’ve cooled. This adds a sweet touch that complements the zingy lemon flavor beautifully. You can also top them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, making them a delightful treat for gatherings and special occasions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Just make sure to slightly thaw and drain them before adding to the mix.

→ How do I store the bars?

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I add nuts to the recipe?

Absolutely! Chopped almonds or walnuts would make a great addition for added crunch.

→ Is there a gluten-free alternative?

Yes, you can use gluten-free oats and almond flour to make this recipe gluten-free.