Lemon Blueberry Oat Bars

Name: Lemon Blueberry Oat Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 bars
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 bananas); 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/3 cup coconut oil, melted; 1 cup fresh blueberries; Zest of 1 lemon; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Family Quick Meals Inspiration

I absolutely love making these Lemon Blueberry Oat Bars whenever I need a bright, fresh snack. The combination of tangy lemon and sweet blueberries is simply delightful, and they’re so easy to whip up! With just a handful of ingredients, I can create a delicious treat that’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or even a midday pick-me-up. Plus, they’re packed with oats, making them a wholesome option to satisfy my sweet tooth without any guilt.

Created by

Thea Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-02-16T07:57:36.728Z

When I first tried making Lemon Blueberry Oat Bars, I knew I wanted something that encapsulated summer, and these bars do just that. The bright bursts of blueberry paired with the zest of lemon create a refreshing flavor profile that’s hard to resist. As I experimented with the recipe, I discovered that using fresh lemon juice and zest really elevates the taste, giving it an irresistible zing.

Another tip I found helpful is to let the bars cool completely before cutting them. It makes for cleaner, more attractive slices and ensures the texture is ideal. I love enjoying these as an afternoon snack with a cup of tea, and they’ve become a regular staple in my kitchen!

Why You'll Love These Bars
Bright citrus flavor that refreshes your palate
Nutty texture from the oats that complements the fruit
Healthier sweet treat option with no refined sugars
Easily customizable with different fruits or nuts

Understanding the Ingredients

In this recipe, the rolled oats serve as the base, providing both texture and nutritional value. Oats are rich in fiber and protein, making these bars a wholesome choice. The natural sweetness of the mashed bananas not only adds flavor but also acts as a binding agent, eliminating the need for eggs. When selecting bananas, make sure they are ripe; their sweetness will enhance the overall taste of the bars.

The use of honey or maple syrup as sweeteners adds moisture and balances the tartness of the lemon and blueberries. If you're looking for a lower glycemic index option, consider using agave nectar or stevia in place of honey. The choice of coconut oil not only contributes healthy fats but also brings a subtle tropical aroma to the bars, enhancing their flavor profile.

Perfecting the Baking Technique

A key step to ensure your bars bake evenly is to preheat your oven properly. This prevents the bars from becoming dense or undercooked in the middle. Use an oven thermometer for accuracy if you're unsure about your oven's temperature. Also, keep an eye on them after the 20-minute mark; ovens can vary, and you want to remove them when the edges are a golden brown and the center is set but slightly soft.

While baking, the mixture may puff up, so give it a gentle shake in the pan to check for doneness. If it jiggles too much, it likely needs a few more minutes. Letting the bars cool completely is essential for achieving the right texture; warm bars may crumble during cutting. Using parchment paper will help you lift the bars out easily, minimizing breakage.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to get started on your Lemon Blueberry Oat Bars!

Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats
1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 bananas)
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/3 cup coconut oil, melted
1 cup fresh blueberries
Zest of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

Once you have everything ready, it's time to bake these delicious bars!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Lemon Blueberry Oat Bars deliciously perfect!

Preheat the oven

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

Mix the wet ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, honey (or maple syrup), and melted coconut oil. Stir until smooth.

Add the dry ingredients

Add the rolled oats, baking powder, and salt to the wet mixture. Fold in the blueberries, lemon zest, and lemon juice until all ingredients are well combined.

Pour and spread

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly using a spatula.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.

Cool and cut

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out and cutting them into squares. Enjoy!

These bars are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for a few days.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or some chopped nuts to the mixture. You can also swap the blueberries for your favorite berries or dried fruits!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Lemon Blueberry Oat Bars store well, making them a great option for meal prep. Once cooled, you can slice them into squares and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze individual bars layered with parchment paper for easy access. They can be frozen for up to three months, and you can thaw them overnight in the fridge or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

If you plan to make them ahead for an event or busy week, consider doubling the recipe and freezing half. This allows you to have healthy snacks on hand without the effort of baking every week. Just ensure to label your containers with the date to keep track of freshness.

Flavor Variations and Add-Ins

While this recipe highlights the refreshing combination of lemon and blueberries, feel free to customize it with seasonal fruits. Chopped apples, raspberries, or even dried cranberries can work beautifully, offering unique flavor profiles and textures. Additionally, incorporating nuts like walnuts or almonds can add crunch and increase the protein content. If you prefer a nut-free option, sunflower seeds are a fantastic substitute that adds a delightful nutty flavor.

For those looking to elevate these bars even further, consider adding spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg, which pair wonderfully with both lemon and oats. A touch of vanilla extract can also enhance the overall flavor without overpowering the other ingredients. Experiment to find your perfect mix!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Just make sure to not thaw them before mixing; adding them frozen will help prevent them from breaking apart in the batter.

→ How long do these bars last?

They can last up to a week in an airtight container in the refrigerator, or you can freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I substitute the bananas?

Yes! You can replace the bananas with unsweetened applesauce or another fruit puree for a different flavor.

→ Are these bars gluten-free?

If you use gluten-free oats, then these bars can be made gluten-free. Always check labels to ensure all ingredients meet gluten-free standards.