Blueberry Vanilla Greek Yogurt Granola Bars.

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a homemade granola bar. They are the perfect on-the-go snack, a delightful addition to your breakfast, or a wholesome treat for the afternoon slump. Today, I’m excited to share a recipe for Blueberry Vanilla Greek Yogurt Granola Bars that are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. These bars combine the goodness of oats, nuts, and dried blueberries with the creamy texture of Greek yogurt, creating a delightful snack that you will crave again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Blueberry Vanilla Greek Yogurt Granola Bars are easy to make and incredibly versatile. Each bite is bursting with flavor, thanks to the combination of sweet blueberries, rich vanilla, and a satisfying crunch from the oats and almonds. They are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to whip up a batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy them throughout. Plus, they are customizable—feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs.

What Goes Into Blueberry Vanilla Greek Yogurt Granola Bars.

Making these granola bars is simple with a handful of wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 cups rolled oats (gluten-free if needed)
• 1 1/2 cups brown rice krispies
• 1/4 cup shredded unsweetened coconut
• 1/4 cup whole roasted almonds, roughly chopped
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup peanut butter or almond butter (I typically use peanut butter)
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla
• 1 cup dried blueberries
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon gelatin
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Pinch of salt
• 2 cups powdered sugar

Equipment Breakdown

Before you get started, gather these essential tools:

• Mixing bowls: For combining dry and wet ingredients.
• Spatula: To help mix everything together and spread the mixture into the pan.
• Baking dish: A 9×9 inch dish works perfectly for this recipe.
• Parchment paper: Helps with easy removal of the bars from the dish.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.

Step-by-Step: Blueberry Vanilla Greek Yogurt Granola Bars.

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Start by lining a 9×9 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. This will make it easier to lift the granola bars out once they are set.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, brown rice krispies, shredded coconut, chopped almonds, chia seeds, and salt. Stir until everything is well mixed.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix together the peanut butter, honey, and vanilla. You can warm the peanut butter slightly in the microwave for easier mixing.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated. It may take a bit of elbow grease, but ensure all the oats and nuts are well mixed with the peanut butter and honey.

Step 5: Press the Mixture Into the Pan

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Using the spatula, press down firmly to create an even layer. This step is crucial for ensuring your bars hold together after baking.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the granola mixture for about 15-20 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden brown.

Step 7: Prepare the Greek Yogurt Topping

While the granola base is baking, mix the Greek yogurt, honey, water, vanilla extract, gelatin, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl until smooth. This will serve as a delicious layer on top.

Step 8: Add the Blueberries

Once the granola base is out of the oven and slightly cooled, sprinkle the dried blueberries evenly over the top. Then, pour the Greek yogurt mixture over the blueberries, spreading it evenly.

Step 9: Chill and Cut

Let the granola bars cool completely, then refrigerate them for at least 2 hours to set. Once set, use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the dish and cut them into squares or rectangles.

Dietary Swaps & Alternatives

If you have specific dietary needs or preferences, consider these swaps:

• Nut-free: Substitute almond or peanut butter with sunflower seed butter.
• Vegan: Use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure the gelatin is plant-based.
• Gluten-free: Use certified gluten-free rolled oats and brown rice krispies.
• Low-sugar: Reduce the amount of honey and use unsweetened Greek yogurt.

Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them

While making these Blueberry Vanilla Greek Yogurt Granola Bars is straightforward, here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

• Bars falling apart: Ensure you press the mixture firmly into the pan to help it stick together.
• Too soft or mushy: Allow the bars to cool completely and chill in the fridge for proper setting.
• Uneven baking: Make sure to spread the mixture evenly in the pan before baking.
• Burning: Keep an eye on the granola base as it bakes, as ovens can vary in temperature.

Prep Ahead & Store

These granola bars are perfect for meal prepping! Here’s how to make them last:

You can prepare these Blueberry Vanilla Greek Yogurt Granola Bars ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Simply wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a quick snack!

Reader Q&A

Can I use fresh blueberries instead of dried ones?

While fresh blueberries can be used, they may add extra moisture to the bars, which could affect their texture. If you choose to use fresh, consider reducing other wet ingredients slightly.

What if I don’t have gelatin? Is there a substitute?

You can omit the gelatin if you prefer, but the bars may not hold together as well. Alternatively, you can use agar-agar as a plant-based substitute.

How can I make these bars more protein-rich?

To boost the protein content, consider adding a scoop of your favorite protein powder to the dry ingredients or using a higher protein nut butter.

Can I make these bars nut-free?

Absolutely! Just swap out the nuts with seeds, such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds, and use seed butter instead of nut butter.

Looking for more delicious ideas to create in one pan? Try these:

Time to Try It

Now that you have the recipe for Blueberry Vanilla Greek Yogurt Granola Bars, it’s time to get into the kitchen and whip up a batch! Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a pre-workout snack, or a healthy dessert, these bars are sure to satisfy your cravings. Enjoy every delicious, nutritious bite!