Crunchy Lemon Blueberry Granola Bars

Name: Crunchy Lemon Blueberry Granola Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1/2 cup unsalted almonds, chopped; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 1 cup dried blueberries

Highlighted under: Sweet Dessert Recipes

I love starting my mornings with a burst of freshness, and these Crunchy Lemon Blueberry Granola Bars are the perfect way to do just that. Packed with bright lemon flavor and sweet, juicy blueberries, they offer a delightful combination of crunch and chewiness. Making them at home is not only simple but also allows me to control the ingredients to keep them healthy. Whether I’m grabbing one on my way out the door or enjoying them with my coffee, these bars have become an essential part of my breakfast routine.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-27T12:16:28.582Z

When I first tried making granola bars at home, I was skeptical. Would they be as good as the store-bought versions? After experimenting with various flavors, I discovered that the combination of lemon and blueberry not only tastes fantastic but also adds a refreshing twist to the traditional granola bar. The tartness of the lemon perfectly balances the sweetness of the blueberries, making each bite a little slice of heaven.

During my kitchen trials, I learned the importance of letting the bars cool completely before cutting them, which ensures the perfect crunchy texture. I also suggest using a mix of oats and nuts for added flavor and nutrition, elevating them far beyond ordinary snack bars!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Refreshing lemon zest paired with sweet blueberries
Crunchy texture with a chewy center
Healthier than store-bought alternatives

Ingredients Breakdown

The core of these Crunchy Lemon Blueberry Granola Bars relies heavily on rolled oats and nuts, which provide a hearty base. Rolled oats are not only the main component but also contribute a great source of fiber, making these bars filling and nutritious. When selecting almonds, opt for unsalted varieties to manage the overall saltiness and let the natural sweetness of the honey or maple syrup shine through. Chopped nuts can be replaced easily with pecans or walnuts for a different flavor profile, so feel free to experiment based on your preference.

The sweetness and moisture balance in the recipe comes from honey or maple syrup, which not only binds the ingredients but also enhances the flavors. If you're aiming for a vegan version, maple syrup is your go-to option. Coconut oil adds a subtle richness while helping to achieve that desirable crunch once baked. It's crucial to melt the coconut oil before mixing; this step ensures it blends seamlessly with the other wet ingredients and coats the oats effectively without clumping.

Baking Tips for Perfection

When spreading the mixture into the baking dish, use the back of a spatula or your hands to firmly press it down. This step is key to achieving that perfect crunchy texture in your bars. If you notice the mixture is crumbly or won’t hold together, it may benefit from a quick return to the mixing bowl with a splash more honey or syrup to enhance the binding properties.

Be mindful of the baking time; aim for around 20 minutes or until the edges start to turn golden brown. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture, while underbaking may result in bars that crumble apart. Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes, as oven temperatures can vary. Once finished, let them cool completely in the pan to ensure they set properly before cutting.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started on making these delicious granola bars:

Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats
1/2 cup unsalted almonds, chopped
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 cup dried blueberries

Make sure everything is fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your crunchy granola bars:

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, chopped almonds, salt, and lemon zest.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together honey (or maple syrup), melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine All Ingredients

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated. Fold in the dried blueberries.

Bake the Bars

Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish and press down firmly. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool and Cut

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cool, lift them out using the parchment paper and cut into bars.

Store your granola bars in an airtight container for up to a week.

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, feel free to add seeds like pumpkin or sunflower to the mix. Adjust the sweetness based on your preference by varying the amount of honey or maple syrup.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These granola bars can be made a week in advance, making them a convenient snack option. After cooling and cutting, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or they can be refrigerated for added freshness. If you prefer a longer storage solution, consider freezing the bars. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months, and when you're ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds.

For those looking to switch up flavors, consider adding in other dried fruits such as cranberries or cherries instead of blueberries. You can also fold in some dark chocolate chips for an extra indulgent treat.

Serving Suggestions

These crunchy bars make an excellent breakfast on the go, but they can also serve as a perfect afternoon snack. Pair them with a dollop of yogurt and fresh fruit for a more filling breakfast option. You could even crumble them over a smoothie bowl for added texture and flavor. If you're feeling creative, try drizzling a little melted dark chocolate on top for added sweetness and visual appeal.

For a delightful twist, consider adding a sprinkle of seeds like chia or flax for extra nutrition. Not only does this enhance the nutrient profile, but it also adds a nice crunch that complements the bars’ textures beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh blueberries instead of dried?

Yes, but be aware that fresh blueberries may add moisture, so you might need to adjust other liquid ingredients.

→ How do I make these bars vegan?

Simply replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar and ensure that the coconut oil is refined if you want to maintain vegan standards.

→ Can I substitute the almonds?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any nuts or seeds you prefer, such as walnuts or sunflower seeds.

→ How should I store these granola bars?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer freshness.