Blueberry Bars
Growing up, summers were always synonymous with my grandmother’s kitchen, where the aroma of fresh fruits would dance in the air. Among the many delightful treats she made, Blueberry Bars held a special place in my heart. Every Saturday morning, we would pick plump, juicy blueberries from the garden, their sweet scent promising something magical. With flour dusting our hands and laughter filling the air, we would blend the fruity goodness into a buttery crust, creating a treat that was as much about togetherness as it was about flavor. These bars were the perfect blend of sweet and tart, easy to share, and a favorite for summer picnics. I can still remember the joy of biting into that soft yet crumbly texture, bursting with the vibrant taste of blueberries. Today, I want to share this recipe that brings back those cherished memories.
Recipe Snapshot
50 mins
0 mins
50 mins
Medium
150 kcal
2 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
6 g
Frying Pan, Oven, Baking Sheet, Wooden Spoon
The Charm of This Blueberry Bars
Family Tradition
One of the main reasons I adore making Blueberry Bars is the nostalgia tied to them. This recipe has been passed down through generations, each batch stirring up memories of hot summer days spent with family. It’s more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of family love and togetherness.
Perfect for Any Occasion
These bars are incredibly versatile. Whether it’s a casual afternoon snack, a summer picnic, or a sweet addition to a family gathering, Blueberry Bars never disappoint. Their bright color and delicious flavor make them the star of any dessert table.
Healthy Indulgence
What I love about this recipe is that it can be made healthier without sacrificing flavor. Using options like whole wheat or oat flour and natural sweeteners allows you to enjoy a guilt-free treat. These bars are not overly sweet, making them a delightful snack throughout the day.
Easy to Make
If you’re looking for a simple yet rewarding baking project, look no further. You likely have most ingredients in your pantry already, and the steps are straightforward. From mixing to baking, you’ll have a delicious batch ready in no time.
Freezable Delight
Another aspect I adore is that Blueberry Bars can be frozen easily. This means I can whip up a big batch and store some for later. There’s nothing quite like pulling out a piece from the freezer on a busy day and enjoying a taste of summer any time of the year.
What Goes Into Blueberry Bars
The ingredients for Blueberry Bars are simple yet essential for creating that perfect balance of flavors and textures. Each component works harmoniously to enhance the sweetness of the blueberries while providing a sturdy but tender base. Here’s a closer look at what makes these bars so special:
- Spelt, White, or Oat Flour: This key ingredient provides the structure for your bars. Each type of flour contributes a unique flavor and texture, with spelt offering nuttiness and oat flour giving a wholesome feel.
- Cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth, enhancing the overall flavor profile without overpowering the blueberries.
- Baking Powder: This is crucial for leavening, making sure your bars have that lovely height and a light texture.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
- Sugar: The sweet star of the show! Whether you opt for unrefined or regular, it brings out the best in the blueberries.
- Butter, Coconut Oil, or Almond Butter: The choice of fat adds richness. Butter gives a classic taste, while coconut oil and almond butter offer creamy texture and health benefits.
- Milk of Choice: A little liquid brings everything together, making for a moist and tender bar.
- Blueberries: These juicy gems are the highlight, bursting with sweet-tart goodness in every bite.
- Cornstarch or Arrowroot: Helps thicken the blueberry filling, ensuring it doesn’t become runny.
- Maple Syrup or Sweetener of Choice: Provides additional natural sweetness, making these bars even more irresistible.
Cooking Method for Blueberry Bars
Making Blueberry Bars is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with warm, inviting aromas. The process is simple, and I’ll walk you through the steps to ensure you achieve the perfect texture and taste. Let’s get baking!
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350 F (175 C). This ensures a consistent temperature that’s crucial for even baking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine spelt, white, or oat flour along with cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Use a whisk to blend them well — this helps distribute the leavening agent evenly throughout the flour.
- Next, cut in butter, coconut oil, or almond butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. You can use a pastry cutter or your fingers for this step. The goal is to incorporate the fat into the dry ingredients without melting it.
- Add the sugar and mix until well combined. Your mixture should start to clump together, creating a crumbly dough.
- Press about half of your dough very firmly into the bottom of an 8-inch pan lined with parchment paper. Ensure it’s evenly layered for the best results.
- In another bowl, toss the blueberries with cornstarch and maple syrup. This mixture will create a luscious filling that complements the crust beautifully.
- Spread the blueberry mixture evenly over the crust. Make sure to distribute it well for consistent flavor in every bite.
- Now, sprinkle all the remaining dough evenly over the blueberry layer. Remember to press down firmly to ensure it holds together during baking.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50 minutes. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes; they should be golden brown and slightly firm to the touch.
- Once done, remove them from the oven and let cool in the pan for a few minutes. Then, place them in the refrigerator to chill. This step is essential as it allows the filling to set properly before cutting.
- After cooling, cut into bars and enjoy! These Blueberry Bars can be served warm or chilled. They’re irresistible either way!
Things Worth Knowing
- Ingredient Quality: Always choose fresh, ripe blueberries for the best flavor. Frozen can work, but fresh offers a superior taste.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: For best mixing results, ensure all your ingredients like butter and milk are at room temperature before starting.
- Chilling the Bars: Allowing the bars to chill fully in the fridge enhances their texture, making them easier to cut.
- Measuring Flour: Use the spoon and level method for flour to avoid dense bars. Scoop it directly from the bag can pack it down, leading to too much flour.
Make It Your Own
Every baker loves to personalize a recipe, and Blueberry Bars are no exception. Here are some tips to help you make them uniquely yours:
- Variations: Feel free to mix in different fruits like raspberries or strawberries for a berry medley!
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the sugar to your taste. If you prefer a less sweet bar, reduce the amount of sugar or choose a tart berry.
- Nuts for Crunch: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds to the dough for an extra crunch.
- Vegan Option: Substitute the butter with coconut oil and use a plant-based milk for a vegan twist.
- Presentation: Top with a dusting of powdered sugar or serve with a dollop of whipped cream for an elegant touch.
What to Serve With Blueberry Bars
When it comes to serving Blueberry Bars, the options are vast and delightful. Here’s how to elevate your serving experience:
- Coffee or Tea: Pairing these bars with a cup of coffee or herbal tea makes for a lovely afternoon treat.
- Picnics: They are perfect for summer picnics, easy to pack and share, adding a sweet touch to your outing.
- Breakfast: Serve them alongside yogurt or cottage cheese for a refreshing breakfast option.
- Garnishes: Top with fresh berries or a drizzle of honey for added flavor and presentation.
- Seasonal Events: These bars fit perfectly during summer BBQs or family reunions, bringing smiles to everyone’s faces.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days, or freeze for later enjoyment.
FAQ
Conclusion
Blueberry Bars are not just a dessert; they’re a slice of summer filled with nostalgia and flavor. With their refreshing taste and simple ingredients, they bring joy to every occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a quiet afternoon at home. I encourage you to give them a try, and I bet they’ll quickly become a favorite in your household!
Blueberry Bars
Equipment
- Frying Pan
- Oven
- Baking Sheet
- Wooden Spoon
Ingredients
- 2/3 cup Sugar unrefined if desired
- 3/4 cup Butter coconut oil or almond butter can be used
- 3 tbsp Milk of choice or additional butter
- 3 cups Blueberries
- 1 tbsp Cornstarch or arrowroot
- 2 tbsp Pure maple syrup or sweetener of choice
- 12/3 cups Spelt, white, or oat flour
- 1 tsp Cinnamon
- 3/4 tsp Baking powder
- 1/4 tsp Salt
Instructions
- 1. Preheat the oven to 350 F. Stir the first five ingredients, then cut in the butter or oil. Press about half of the dough firmly into the bottom of an 8 inch pan lined with parchment paper. Toss the blueberries with the cornstarch and maple syrup. Spread this over the crust. Sprinkle all remaining dough evenly over everything. Press down firmly. Bake for 50 minutes. Let cool, then chill in the refrigerator before cutting into bars.
Notes
- Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy them within four days.
- Tip 2: These bars can be frozen. Cut them into squares and place in a freezer-safe container.
- Tip 3: For added texture, experiment with adding nuts.
- Tip 4: Adjust the sweetness by reducing sugar or using a tart fruit.
- Tip 5: Try topping with yogurt for a delightful twist!
