Crunchy Lemon Blueberry Granola Bars

Name: Crunchy Lemon Blueberry Granola Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1 cup raw almonds, chopped; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted; 1/2 cup dried blueberries; Zest of 1 lemon; Juice of 1 lemon; 1/2 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Sweet Treat Creations

When I first combined the zesty flavor of lemon with plump blueberries in these granola bars, I knew I had created something special. The perfect balance of crunch and chewiness makes them a delightful snack any time of the day. I love how easy they are to whip up, and the bright, vibrant flavors remind me of summer days. They’re great for breakfast on the go or an afternoon pick-me-up. Plus, they stay fresh for a week, so you can make a batch ahead of time!

Created by

Olivia

Last updated on 2026-01-27T13:46:28.851Z

I remember the first time I made these crunchy lemon blueberry granola bars; the kitchen was filled with such a fresh, invigorating aroma! I was amazed at how the simple ingredients came together to create a wholesome snack that was both satisfying and delicious. Using oats as the base provides that wonderful crunch, while the addition of honey ties everything together.

To truly enhance the flavors, I also discovered that adding a pinch of salt brings out the natural sweetness of the blueberries. These bars not only keep well, but they also pack a nutritious punch, making them perfect for busy days or lunchboxes!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Zesty lemon flavor paired with juicy blueberries
Healthy snack option that's easy to make
Perfect balance of crunchy and chewy textures

The Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in these Crunchy Lemon Blueberry Granola Bars serves a specific purpose, enhancing both flavor and texture. For example, rolled oats are the backbone of the bars, providing a hearty chewiness that complements the crunch from the almonds. The nuts not only add texture but also deliver healthy fats and protein, making these bars a filling snack. Using unsweetened dried blueberries adds natural sweetness and tartness, balancing beautifully with the bright acidity from the lemon.

Honey or maple syrup acts as a natural sweetener, contributing both flavor and moisture to the mixture. If you prefer a vegan alternative, maple syrup is an excellent substitute that maintains the bars’ delicious taste. The melted coconut oil ensures that the bars hold together while lending a light coconut flavor that pairs well with the lemon and berries.

Baking Tips

When baking the granola bars, keep a close eye on them as they near the 20-minute mark. The edges should become golden brown, which is a good indicator that they’re ready to come out of the oven. If your pan is on the darker side, you might need to reduce the baking time slightly to avoid burning. For an extra crunch, you can also toast the almonds before mixing them in, enhancing their flavor and texture further.

Allowing the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes is crucial, as this helps them set before removal. If you skip this step, they might crumble when you try to lift them out. Once on the wire rack, cooling completely before cutting helps achieve clean edges. If you prefer a softer texture, you can let them cool just slightly before slicing.

Ingredients

Granola Bar Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats
1 cup raw almonds, chopped
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
1/2 cup dried blueberries
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 lemon
1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Steps to Prepare the Granola Bars

Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped almonds, dried blueberries, lemon zest, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together honey, melted coconut oil, and lemon juice until well combined.

Combine and Bake

Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and mix until everything is evenly coated. Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan and bake for 20–25 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.

Cool and Cut

Remove from the oven and allow to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the pan and let cool completely on a wire rack before cutting into squares.

Enjoy Your Granola Bars!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can mix in some chia seeds or flaxseeds. Store the bars in an airtight container to keep them fresh longer.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These granola bars are excellent for meal prepping, as they stay fresh for up to a week when stored in an airtight container. To maintain their crispness, try to store them at room temperature rather than the refrigerator, which can make them chewy. If you want to extend their shelf life further, consider freezing them. Just wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll maintain their taste and texture for up to three months.

When you’re ready to enjoy, simply remove a bar from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds if you're in a hurry, though this might soften them a bit.

Serving Suggestions

These granola bars make for a versatile snack, perfect to enjoy on their own or served alongside yogurt for a wholesome breakfast. I love crumbling them over smoothie bowls to add some crunch and flavor. You can also pack them in lunch boxes or keep a batch in your bag for a quick energy boost during the day.

For a fun twist, consider drizzling a bit of melted dark chocolate over the baked bars once they cool, adding a rich contrast to the citrusy notes. You could also swap out the blueberries for other dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a different flavor profile while still enjoying the same crunchy texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the almonds with another nut?

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

→ How should I store these granola bars?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or refrigerate for longer shelf life.

→ Can I make these granola bars vegan?

Yes! Simply use maple syrup instead of honey, and ensure that the ingredients are all vegan-friendly.

→ Can I add fresh blueberries instead of dried?

Fresh blueberries can add moisture, so it's best to stick with dried ones to maintain the texture of the bars.