1/4cupwalnuts or pecans, coarsely chopped (optional)
Instructions
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8x8 inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper, allowing some extra paper to hang over the edges for easy removal later on.
In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and sea salt. Stir thoroughly to ensure that all dry ingredients are well mixed.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey (or maple syrup), unsweetened applesauce, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Take care not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly okay.
Carefully fold in the blueberries and chopped nuts (if using), ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter without breaking the blueberries.
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread the batter evenly across the dish. Press it down firmly using the spatula or your hands for an even texture.
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are a lovely golden-brown color, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Upon removal from the oven, allow the breakfast bars to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Carefully lift them out using the parchment overhang and set them on a wire rack to cool completely.
Once the bars are fully cooled, slice them into squares or rectangles for serving. Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container for up to a week.
Notes
For an appealing display, stack the bars neatly on a serving platter and dust with a sprinkle of cinnamon. Add a few fresh blueberries around the edges for a pop of color!