Berry Almond Breakfast Bars

Berry Almond Breakfast Bars have become a staple in our household, and for good reason! Mornings can be hectic, especially with school runs and work deadlines looming, and finding a breakfast that’s both nutritious and quick to grab can feel like a constant challenge. That’s where these delightful bars swoop in to save the day. Honestly, I stumbled upon a similar recipe online a while back, tweaked it to my family’s preferences (more berries, a hint of almond extract – because why not?), and they’ve been a resounding hit ever since. Even my pickiest eater, who usually turns his nose up at anything remotely healthy, devours these bars with gusto. The combination of chewy oats, crunchy almonds, and bursts of sweet berries is simply irresistible. They’re perfect for busy weekdays, weekend hikes, or even as a healthier dessert option. Plus, the aroma that fills the kitchen while they bake is just pure comfort. If you’re searching for a breakfast solution that’s both delicious and convenient, look no further – these Berry Almond Breakfast Bars are about to become your new morning heroes!

Ingredients

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the perfect texture and flavor profile for these breakfast bars. Let’s break down what you’ll need:

• 2 cups Rolled Oats: The heart of our breakfast bars, rolled oats provide a wonderful chewy texture and are packed with fiber, keeping you feeling full and energized for longer. Make sure to use rolled oats (also known as old-fashioned oats) and not instant oats, as instant oats will become too mushy.
• 1 cup Almond Flour: Almond flour adds a delicate nutty flavor and contributes to the bars’ tender crumb. It’s also gluten-free and adds a boost of healthy fats and protein. If you don’t have almond flour, you can substitute with oat flour (simply blend rolled oats into a fine flour) or all-purpose flour, but the texture and flavor will be slightly different.
• ½ cup Sliced Almonds: For that satisfying crunch and extra almond flavor, sliced almonds are essential. They add a delightful textural contrast to the soft base and complement the almond flour beautifully. You can also use slivered or chopped almonds if you prefer.
• ½ cup Mixed Frozen Berries: Frozen berries are a fantastic choice because they are readily available year-round, budget-friendly, and burst with juicy sweetness. A mix of blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries works wonderfully, but feel free to use your favorite combination or just one type of berry. You can use fresh berries if you prefer, but frozen berries tend to hold their shape better during baking and release less moisture.
• ½ cup Unsweetened Applesauce: Applesauce acts as a natural sweetener and moisture binder in this recipe. It helps keep the bars soft and tender without adding excessive sugar. Make sure to use unsweetened applesauce to control the sweetness level.
• ½ cup Almond Butter: Almond butter is the secret ingredient that adds richness, healthy fats, and a delightful depth of flavor. It also helps bind the ingredients together. Choose a creamy almond butter for the best texture. You can substitute with other nut butters like peanut butter or cashew butter, but the flavor profile will change.
• ½ cup Pure Maple Syrup: Maple syrup provides natural sweetness and a lovely subtle caramel-like flavor that complements the berries and almonds. Ensure you are using pure maple syrup and not pancake syrup, which is often made with corn syrup and artificial flavors. You can substitute with honey or agave nectar if preferred.
• 1 Large Egg: The egg acts as a binder, helping to hold all the ingredients together and creating a cohesive bar. For a vegan option, you can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken).
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract: Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile, adding warmth and sweetness. Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.
• ½ teaspoon Almond Extract (Optional): For an extra boost of almond flavor, a touch of almond extract is a wonderful addition. However, it’s potent, so use it sparingly. If you’re not a fan of almond extract, you can omit it.
• 1 teaspoon Baking Powder: Baking powder is a leavening agent that helps the bars rise slightly and become light and airy. Ensure your baking powder is fresh for optimal results.
• ¼ teaspoon Salt: Salt enhances the flavors of all the other ingredients and balances the sweetness. A pinch of salt is essential in baking.

Instructions

Making these Berry Almond Breakfast Bars is surprisingly easy and straightforward. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a batch of delicious and healthy bars ready to enjoy. Follow these instructions for perfect results:

1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Your Baking Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal later. This step is crucial to prevent the bars from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, almond flour, sliced almonds, baking powder, and salt. Ensure all the dry ingredients are well combined to distribute the baking powder and salt evenly throughout the batter. This ensures consistent texture and flavor in every bite.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the applesauce, almond butter, maple syrup, egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using). Whisk until all the wet ingredients are smoothly combined and emulsified. This creates a cohesive base for the batter.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together using a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as overmixing can lead to tough bars. A few streaks of flour are okay at this stage.
5. Fold in the Frozen Berries: Gently fold in the frozen mixed berries into the batter. Distribute the berries evenly throughout the mixture. It’s best to add frozen berries directly from the freezer without thawing, as this helps prevent them from bleeding into the batter too much and keeps them from becoming mushy.
6. Transfer Batter to Baking Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly using a spatula or the back of a spoon. Ensure the batter is spread into all corners of the pan for uniform baking.
7. Bake Until Golden Brown: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bars are golden brown around the edges and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so start checking for doneness around 25 minutes.
8. Cool Completely Before Cutting: Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This is crucial for them to set properly and become firm enough to cut into clean bars. Resist the temptation to cut them while they are still warm, as they will be crumbly. Cooling completely can take about 1-2 hours at room temperature, or you can speed up the process by placing them in the refrigerator for about 30-45 minutes.
9. Cut into Bars and Serve: Once completely cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Place them on a cutting board and cut them into squares or rectangles of your desired size. Typically, an 8×8 inch pan will yield 9-12 bars, depending on how you cut them.
10. Store Properly: Store the Berry Almond Breakfast Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2-3 months. Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for easy grab-and-go breakfasts or snacks.

Nutrition Facts

These Berry Almond Breakfast Bars are not only delicious but also packed with wholesome goodness. They offer a balanced nutritional profile, making them a healthier choice for breakfast or a snack. Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and can vary slightly based on specific ingredient brands and measurements.

• Servings: Approximately 9-12 bars (depending on how you cut them)
• Calories per Serving (estimated, per bar): 220-280 calories

Approximate Nutritional Breakdown per Bar (estimated):

• Protein: 6-8 grams
• Fat: 12-16 grams (primarily healthy fats from almonds and almond butter)
• Saturated Fat: 1-2 grams
• Cholesterol: 20-30 mg
• Sodium: 80-120 mg
• Carbohydrates: 25-35 grams
• Fiber: 4-6 grams
• Sugar: 10-15 grams (primarily natural sugars from berries and maple syrup)

Key Nutritional Benefits:

• High in Fiber: Rolled oats and berries are excellent sources of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes satiety, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
• Good Source of Healthy Fats: Almonds and almond butter provide healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health and brain function.
• Source of Protein: Almond flour, almonds, almond butter, and eggs contribute to the protein content of these bars, which is essential for muscle building and repair, as well as keeping you feeling full and satisfied.
• Rich in Antioxidants: Berries are packed with antioxidants, which help protect your body against cell damage and have various health benefits.
• Provides Sustained Energy: The combination of complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, and protein provides sustained energy throughout the morning or afternoon, preventing energy crashes.
• Lower in Added Sugar: Compared to many commercially available breakfast bars, these homemade bars are lower in added sugar, as the sweetness primarily comes from natural sources like maple syrup and berries.

Preparation Time

These Berry Almond Breakfast Bars are wonderfully quick to prepare, making them perfect for busy individuals and families. Here’s a breakdown of the preparation and baking time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • This includes gathering ingredients, measuring them out, combining dry and wet ingredients, and folding in the berries. The recipe is straightforward, and the steps are quick to follow.
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
  • The baking time is relatively short, allowing you to have freshly baked breakfast bars in under an hour.
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes (including prep and cook time)
  • From start to finish, you can have these delicious and healthy breakfast bars ready in less than 45 minutes, making them a fantastic option for a quick and easy breakfast or snack.

It’s worth noting that the cooling time is not included in the active preparation time. While the bars need to cool completely before cutting, this is passive time where you don’t need to be actively involved. You can use this cooling time to get ready for your day, prepare other meals, or simply relax. If you’re in a hurry, you can speed up the cooling process by refrigerating the bars.

How to Serve

These Berry Almond Breakfast Bars are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to inspire you:

• Classic Breakfast:
  • Enjoy a bar straight out of the airtight container for a quick and convenient breakfast on busy mornings.
  • Pair a bar with a glass of milk, almond milk, or your favorite plant-based milk for a more complete and satisfying breakfast.
  • Serve alongside a cup of yogurt or Greek yogurt for added protein and calcium.
  • Combine with a side of fresh fruit, such as sliced bananas, berries, or melon, for a balanced and refreshing breakfast.
• On-the-Go Snack:
  • Pack a bar in your lunchbox for a healthy and delicious midday snack at work or school.
  • Take them along on hikes, bike rides, or road trips as an energy-boosting and portable snack.
  • Keep a few bars in your gym bag for a pre- or post-workout snack to fuel your activity or aid in recovery.
• Dessert or Treat:
  • Enjoy a bar as a healthier alternative to traditional desserts. They satisfy sweet cravings without being overly sugary.
  • Warm a bar slightly in the microwave for a cozy and comforting evening treat. Heating them up enhances the aroma and makes them even more delicious.
  • Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a more indulgent dessert experience.
  • Crumble a bar over yogurt or oatmeal for added texture and flavor.
• Creative Serving Ideas:
  • Cut the bars into smaller bite-sized pieces and serve them as part of a breakfast or brunch platter.
  • Spread a thin layer of nut butter or cream cheese on a bar for extra richness and flavor.
  • Drizzle melted dark chocolate over cooled bars for a decadent twist.
  • Top with a sprinkle of chia seeds or flax seeds for added nutritional boost and texture.

No matter how you choose to serve them, these Berry Almond Breakfast Bars are sure to be a hit. Their delicious flavor and wholesome ingredients make them a versatile and enjoyable option for any time of day.

Additional Tips for Perfect Berry Almond Breakfast Bars

To ensure your Berry Almond Breakfast Bars turn out perfectly every time, here are five helpful tips to keep in mind:

1. Don’t Overmix the Batter: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, gently fold them together until just combined. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the almond flour and oats, resulting in tough and dense bars. A few streaks of flour are perfectly fine – they will incorporate during baking. Gentle mixing is key to achieving tender and moist bars.
2. Use Frozen Berries (and Don’t Thaw Them): Frozen berries are recommended in this recipe because they hold their shape better during baking and release less moisture into the batter. Add the frozen berries directly from the freezer without thawing. This prevents them from becoming mushy and bleeding their color into the batter, resulting in a more visually appealing and texturally pleasing bar. If you use fresh berries, they might release more moisture and require slightly longer baking time.
3. Line Your Baking Pan with Parchment Paper: Lining your baking pan with parchment paper is a crucial step for easy removal and cleanup. Greasing the pan is important, but parchment paper ensures that the bars won’t stick to the bottom and sides, and the overhang makes it incredibly easy to lift the entire batch out of the pan once cooled. This results in cleaner cuts and less mess.
4. Let the Bars Cool Completely Before Cutting: Patience is key when it comes to cutting these breakfast bars. Resist the temptation to cut them while they are still warm. They need to cool completely to firm up and set properly. Cutting them while warm will result in crumbly bars that fall apart easily. Allowing them to cool fully, either at room temperature or in the refrigerator, ensures clean and neat slices.
5. Customize with Your Favorite Nuts and Seeds: While this recipe calls for sliced almonds, feel free to get creative and customize it with your favorite nuts and seeds. You can substitute or add other nuts like walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts. For added crunch and nutrition, consider incorporating seeds like chia seeds, flax seeds, pumpkin seeds, or sunflower seeds. Experimenting with different combinations can create exciting variations and cater to your personal preferences. You can also add a sprinkle of rolled oats or coarse sugar on top before baking for extra texture and visual appeal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some frequently asked questions about Berry Almond Breakfast Bars to help you make them with confidence and address any potential queries you might have:

Q1: Can I use fresh berries instead of frozen berries?

A: Yes, you can use fresh berries if you prefer. However, frozen berries are generally recommended for this recipe because they hold their shape better during baking and release less moisture. If you use fresh berries, they might make the bars slightly more moist, and you may need to bake them for a few minutes longer to ensure they are fully cooked. Make sure to gently fold in fresh berries to avoid crushing them.

Q2: Can I make these breakfast bars vegan?

A: Yes, these bars can easily be made vegan with a simple substitution. Instead of using a chicken egg, you can use a flax egg. To make a flax egg, mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit for about 5 minutes to thicken. This flax egg will act as a binder in place of the regular egg. Ensure all other ingredients you use are also vegan-friendly, such as using maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey if you are strictly vegan.

Q3: How long do these breakfast bars last and how should I store them?

A: Berry Almond Breakfast Bars will stay fresh at room temperature for about 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container. For longer storage, you can keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. To freeze them, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen bars can last for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them at room temperature or in the refrigerator before enjoying.

Q4: Can I add protein powder to these breakfast bars?

A: Yes, you can add protein powder to boost the protein content of these bars. Whey protein, plant-based protein powder, or collagen protein can be incorporated. Start by adding about ¼ to ½ cup of protein powder to the dry ingredients. You might need to slightly adjust the amount of almond flour or oats to maintain the desired consistency, as protein powder can absorb moisture. You may also need to add a tablespoon or two of liquid (applesauce or maple syrup) if the batter becomes too dry.

Q5: What if I don’t have almond flour? Can I use another type of flour?

A: If you don’t have almond flour, you can substitute it with oat flour or all-purpose flour. Oat flour can be made easily by blending rolled oats in a food processor or blender until finely ground. Oat flour will provide a similar texture and flavor to almond flour. All-purpose flour can also be used, but the texture might be slightly different – the bars might be a bit less dense and slightly more cake-like. You can also try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend if you need a gluten-free option and don’t have almond flour. Keep in mind that different flours may absorb liquid differently, so you might need to adjust the liquid slightly if needed to achieve the right batter consistency.

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