Blueberry Chia Jam Bars

Before diving into the recipe, let’s explore the incredible health benefits of the key ingredients: blueberries and chia seeds. Blueberries are often celebrated as a superfood, and for good reason. They are rich in antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which give them their beautiful blue hue. These antioxidants play a crucial role in fighting free radicals, thereby reducing oxidative stress in the body. Moreover, blueberries have been linked to reduced inflammation, improved heart health, and even enhanced brain function.

Discover the delicious and nutritious Blueberry Bliss Chia Jam Bars, perfect for any occasion! These bars blend the vibrant flavor of blueberries with the wholesome goodness of chia seeds, creating a snack that’s both satisfying and health-conscious. Ideal for breakfast, a midday pick-me-up, or even dessert, they’re loaded with antioxidants and fiber. Learn how to make these easy and delightful bars that will quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy a treat that's as good for your body as it is for your taste buds!

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Ingredients

For the Blueberry Chia Jam:

2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries

2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (adjust according to your sweetness preference)

2 tablespoons chia seeds

Juice of 1 lemon

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

For the Base and Topping:

1 cup rolled oats

1 cup almond flour (or any gluten-free flour of your choice)

1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut

1/4 cup melted coconut oil (or unsalted butter)

1/4 cup brown sugar or coconut sugar

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

2 tablespoons water (optional, if needed for consistency)

Instructions

Prepare the Blueberry Chia Jam:

- In a medium saucepan, combine the blueberries, honey or maple syrup, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, or until the blueberries begin to release their juices and break down.

- Once the blueberries are softened, remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the chia seeds and vanilla extract. Allow the mixture to sit for 10-15 minutes to thicken. If the jam becomes too thick, add a tablespoon of water to achieve your desired consistency.

Make the Base and Topping:

- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring you leave some overhang on the sides for easy removal after baking.

- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond flour, shredded coconut, melted coconut oil, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.

- Set aside 1/2 cup of this mixture for the topping. Firmly press the remaining mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the base of your bars.

Layer the Jam and Top with Reserved Mixture:

- Evenly spread the prepared blueberry chia jam over the base layer in the baking dish.

- Sprinkle the reserved topping mixture over the jam, ensuring it covers the entire surface evenly.

Bake the Bars:

- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and feels firm to the touch.

- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 20 minutes in the pan. Then use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.

Slice and Serve:

- Once the bars are completely cooled, slice them into squares or rectangles. These bars make a delightful breakfast, snack, or dessert option!

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Yield: 12 bars

- Presentation Tips: Serve these bars on a beautiful platter, and feel free to garnish with fresh blueberries and a sprig of mint for an extra touch of elegance!