Blueberry Bar and Health Information
March 28, 2024
Blueberry Bar
1 ½ cups rolled oats
1 cup cooked quinoa
1 teaspoon baking powder
2 Tablespoons maple syrup
½ cup sliced raw almonds
¼ cup flax seeds
1 cup mashed bananas (about 2 medium)
½ cup 0% Greek yogurt
1 egg
2 Tablespoons favorite nut/seed butter
2 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ½ cups fresh blueberries
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line cookie sheet with parchment paper. In large mixing bowl, whisk together oats, quinoa, baking powder, almonds and flax seeds. In separate mixing bowl, mash bananas, and then mix in nut butter, syrup, Greek yogurt, blueberries, egg, lemon juice and vanilla. Pour this mixture into dry-ingredient mixture. Mix everything together until fully incorporated. Batter should be moist, but easy to shape, not runny. Scoop batter into pan and press gently into a flat rectangular shape. Bake on center rack for 25-35 minutes until bars are golden brown and firm to the touch. Remove and let cool completely in pan, then slice into squares. Bars can be kept in an airtight container for 4-5 days. Great for a quick breakfast or after-school treat!
Health Benefits of Blueberries
Not only are they chock-full of the essential nutrient vitamin C, but these berries can also give your body a major boost in other ways.
Anthocyanin — the antioxidant that give blueberries their color — contains powerful inflammation-fighting and cell-protecting properties. Plus, this naturally sweet-tasting produce contains next to no calories compared to some other desserts. And there are tons more reasons to sprinkle blueberries over just about everything you eat.
Reduced risk of chronic disease: The antioxidants in berries may lower your risk of a whole host of illnesses by limiting inflammation and fighting free radicals.
Better brain health: The flavonoids in blueberries can reduce your risk of cognitive decline and dementia by enhancing circulation and protecting brain cells from damage.
A healthier heart: Some studies have linked eating blueberries with decreased blood pressure. Since they’re loaded with polyphenolic compounds that help your blood vessels, blueberries count as a cardioprotective food.