Blueberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars Recipe

Blueberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars Recipe for Sweet-Tooth Satisfaction

These scrumptious blueberry oatmeal crumble bars promise a delightful twist on traditional desserts.

Bursting with sweet-tart berries, they capture summer’s essence in every bite.

Homemade treats rarely feel this comforting and simple to prepare.

Rich layers of buttery oats and juicy blueberries create a mouthwatering combination that feels like an edible hug.

Each bar offers a perfect balance between crisp crumble and jammy fruit filling.

Baking these bars fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that’ll make everyone gather around.

You won’t be able to resist cutting into these golden, crumbly delights that showcase fresh blueberries at their very best.

Why You’ll Love Blueberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars

  • Beginner-friendly recipe with simple steps that teach basic baking techniques without overwhelming novice cooks.
  • Combines kid-approved blueberries with comforting oatmeal crumble, making it a crowd-pleasing dessert that appeals to all ages.
  • Showcases fresh summer blueberries while offering a cozy, warm dessert that works year-round for potlucks, picnics, or after-school snacks.

All Ingredients for Blueberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars

Base Ingredients:
  • Oats: A hearty, nutritious grain that provides texture and creates a rustic, wholesome base for the bars.
  • All-Purpose Flour: Helps bind the crust and crumble together, giving structure to the dessert.
  • Brown Sugar: Adds deep, caramel-like sweetness and helps create a rich, moist crumble.
Spice and Seasoning:
  • Baking Powder: Ensures a light, slightly risen texture in the crust.
  • Cinnamon: Warm spice that complements the blueberries and adds depth to the flavor.
  • Salt: Balances and enhances the overall sweetness of the dessert.
Filling and Binding Ingredients:
  • Blueberries, Cornstarch: A classic combination that creates a thick, glossy fruit filling.
  • Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the blueberry mixture and helps with consistency.
  • Lemon Juice: Brightens the fruit flavor and adds a subtle tartness.
  • Vanilla Extract: Provides a rich, aromatic flavor that ties the ingredients together.
  • Butter: Adds richness, helps bind the crumble, and creates a golden, crisp texture.

How to Prepare Blueberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars Easily

Step 1: Set Up Kitchen Zone

Warm your oven to 350F (175C).

Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, letting edges hang over for easy removal.

Step 2: Create Magical Oat Base

In a mixing bowl, combine:
  • Rolled oats
  • All-purpose flour
  • Brown sugar
  • Baking powder
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Salt

Pour melted butter into dry ingredients and mix until crumbly.

Press two-thirds of this mixture firmly into the prepared pan, creating a solid foundation.

Step 3: Craft Bursting Blueberry Filling

In a saucepan over medium heat, toss together:
  • Fresh blueberries
  • Granulated sugar
  • Cornstarch
  • Lemon juice
  • Vanilla extract

Stir constantly for 5-7 minutes until mixture transforms into a glossy, thick sauce.

Allow filling to cool slightly, then spread evenly across the oat base.

Step 4: Sprinkle and Bake to Perfection

Scatter remaining oat mixture over blueberry layer, creating a rustic, crumbly topping.

Slide pan into preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes.

Look for golden-brown edges and bubbling blueberry center.

Remove and let cool completely before slicing into irresistible bars.

Helpful Tips for Perfect Blueberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars

  • Master the Crust Consistency: Press the oat mixture firmly and evenly into the pan to create a solid, compact base that holds together perfectly when cut.
  • Prevent Runny Filling: Cook the blueberry mixture until it thickens to ensure a jammy, spreadable texture that won't make your bars soggy.
  • Customize Fruit Options: Swap blueberries with raspberries, strawberries, or mixed berries to create delightful variations of this versatile dessert.
  • Boost Nutritional Value: Add chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts to the crumble topping for extra protein and a satisfying crunch.
  • Freeze for Later Enjoyment: These bars store wonderfully in the freezer for up to 3 months, making them a great make-ahead treat for unexpected guests or quick desserts.

Keeping Blueberry Oatmeal Bars Fresh Longer

  • Store cooled blueberry oatmeal crumble bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  • Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months for longer storage.
  • Thaw frozen bars in the refrigerator overnight. Warm in the oven at 300F for 5-7 minutes to restore crispness and bring back the delicious texture.
  • Let chilled bars sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to soften slightly and enhance flavor.

Top Pairings for Blueberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars

  • Select a late-harvest Riesling or Moscato that matches the dessert's fruity sweetness and provides complementary flavor notes.
  • The wine's subtle acidity will balance the rich, buttery oat crust beautifully.
  • Serve chilled for maximum enjoyment.
  • Top the warm crumble bars with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream.
  • Cold, smooth vanilla ice cream creates delightful temperature contrast against the warm, crumbly texture.
  • Melting vanilla cream enhances the blueberry's natural tartness.
  • Choose a medium roast coffee with subtle caramel or nutty undertones.
  • The coffee's warmth and mild flavor profile will highlight the blueberry's natural sweetness.
  • Serve alongside the crumble bars for a classic dessert experience.
  • Scatter fresh blueberries and mint leaves around the plated dessert.
  • Additional fresh berries intensify the recipe's fruit essence and provide visual appeal.
  • Bright mint adds a refreshing counterpoint to the rich, sweet crumble.

Flavorful Variations for Oatmeal Crumble Bars

  • Gluten-Free Version: Replace regular flour with gluten-free flour blend and ensure oats are certified gluten-free for celiac or gluten-sensitive individuals.
  • Vegan Adaptation: Swap butter with coconut oil or plant-based margarine, and use maple syrup instead of brown sugar to create a completely dairy-free and egg-free dessert.
  • Low-Sugar Alternative: Substitute sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia, and use fresh blueberries without added sugar for a reduced-calorie option that maintains delicious flavor.
  • Seasonal Berry Switch: Replace blueberries with raspberries, blackberries, or mixed berries to create exciting flavor variations while keeping the same crumble base recipe.

Answering Questions About Blueberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars

  • Are blueberry oatmeal crumble bars healthy?

These bars offer nutritional benefits with whole grain oats, antioxidant-rich blueberries, and moderate sugar content. While delicious, they’re a treat best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

  • Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen blueberries work perfectly. Just don’t thaw them before cooking to prevent excess moisture. The cooking process will help them break down and create a delicious filling.

  • How do I know when the bars are perfectly baked?

Look for a golden-brown top and slightly bubbling edges. The filling should appear set but still slightly glossy. A light golden color across the crumble indicates they’re done.

  • What's the best way to cut these bars cleanly?

Let the bars cool completely in the pan. Use a sharp knife and wipe the blade clean between cuts for neat, precise squares. Chilling the bars for 30 minutes before cutting can also help create cleaner slices.

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Blueberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars Recipe

Blueberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars Recipe


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4.5 from 23 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Blueberry oatmeal crumble bars blend sweet summer berries with hearty oats in a delightful dessert. Crisp edges, jammy fruit center, and buttery crumble topping make this treat irresistible for weekend gatherings or casual snacking.


Ingredients

Scale

Blueberry Topping:

  • 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
  • ⅓ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Base and Crumble Ingredients:

  • 1 ½ cups old-fashioned oats
  • 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted (170 grams)
  • ½ cup brown sugar, packed
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven environment by heating to 350F (175C) and creating a non-stick foundation using parchment paper in an 8-inch square baking vessel.
  2. Craft the base and topping mixture by combining rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt in a spacious mixing bowl. Introduce melted butter and blend until the ingredients form a delicate, crumbly consistency.
  3. Establish the foundational crust by firmly pressing two-thirds of the oat mixture into the prepared pan, creating an even, compact layer.
  4. Generate the fruit compote by simmering fresh blueberries with granulated sugar, cornstarch, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously for 5-7 minutes until the mixture transforms into a thick, glossy filling.
  5. Allow the blueberry mixture to cool momentarily, then carefully distribute it across the prepared oat crust, ensuring an uniform coverage.
  6. Scatter the remaining oat crumble mixture gracefully over the blueberry layer, creating a textured surface.
  7. Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, monitoring until the top achieves a golden-brown hue and the filling bubbles enticingly.
  8. Remove from the oven and permit the bars to cool completely before slicing into precise squares for serving.

Notes

  • Choose fresh, ripe blueberries for the most vibrant and intense flavor in your filling.
  • Use rolled oats instead of quick oats to maintain a better texture and prevent the bars from becoming too dense.
  • Ensure the blueberry filling is slightly cooled before spreading to prevent the crust from becoming soggy and maintain crisp layers.
  • For a gluten-free version, swap regular flour with almond flour or a certified gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary restrictions.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 540
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 950 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 43 g
  • Fiber: 5 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 80 mg
Jessica Martinez

Jessica Martinez

Pastry Chef & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Organic Baking Techniques, Gluten-Free Recipe Development, Southwestern Dessert Specialties, Food Styling and Photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College (SFCC)

  • Program: Certificate in Patisserie
  • Focus: Cultivating disciplined kitchen preparation for a safe, organized, and sanitary workstation; mastering the timely production of nutritious, visually appealing pastries; safely operating standard pastry equipment; and honing core patissier techniques for professional pastry work.

Jessica brings the sweet side to Urban Organic with her passion for baking and love for the Southwest. She trained at Santa Fe Community College and has built a career creating beautiful, gluten-free, and organic desserts that feel both nostalgic and new.

She believes baking should be fun, creative, and open to everyone, no matter your diet or skill level. Jessica’s recipes are simple enough to follow, but special enough to remember.

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