Mixed Berry Oatmeal Bars (Naturally Sweetened, Gluten-Free)

These Mixed Berry Oatmeal Bars are bursting with juicy berries and layered between a sweet, nutty oat crust and crumble topping.

Naturally sweetened with maple syrup and coconut sugar, they’re the perfect wholesome treat for breakfast or snacking—all with no refined sugar, dairy, or gluten!

Why You’ll Love These Mixed Berry Oatmeal Bars

Wholesome and healthy: Naturally sweetened and made with almond flour and oats.

Berry-packed filling: Juicy frozen berries simmered into a delicious jam-like texture.

Easy to prep: No mixer needed, just simple stovetop and mixing bowl action.

Perfect make-ahead: Great for meal prep—stores well in the fridge all week.

Ingredient Highlights

Mixed Berry Filling

Frozen berries – Any small berry mix works (like blueberries, raspberries, or chopped strawberries).

Lemon juice – Brightens and balances the sweetness.

Coconut sugar + maple syrup – For deep, natural sweetness without refined sugar.

Tapioca starch – Thickens the berry layer into a luscious, jammy texture.

Oatmeal Crust & Crumble

Rolled oats – Adds chewy texture and heartiness.

Almond flour – Creates a moist, nutty base.

Coconut oil – Binds everything together while keeping it dairy-free.

Maple syrup + vanilla – Warm, natural flavor with just the right sweetness.

Pro Tips Before You Start

Cut large berries like strawberries into quarters so they cook evenly in the filling.

Use your hands when mixing the crumble to help the coconut oil fully incorporate.

Let the bars cool completely before slicing to help them hold their shape.

How to Make Mixed Berry Oatmeal Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cut Large Berries (If Needed)

Measure out the frozen berries.

If there are any large strawberries, quarter them for even cooking.

Step 3: Cook the Berry Filling

In a small saucepan over medium heat, add the berries, lemon juice, coconut sugar, maple syrup, and a pinch of salt.

Let the mixture simmer for 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the berries release their juices and the mixture becomes juicy.

Step 4: Thicken the Berry Mixture

Scoop out 1–2 tablespoons of the berry liquid and stir it with the tapioca starch in a small bowl until smooth.

Add this slurry back into the saucepan and stir for 1 minute as the filling thickens slightly.

Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 5: Make the Oatmeal Crust
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond flour, baking soda, and sea salt.

Stir to blend evenly.

Step 6: Add the Wet Ingredients
Add the maple syrup, coconut oil (solid), and vanilla extract to the dry mix.

Use a fork or your hands to blend everything together into a crumbly, slightly sticky dough.

Step 7: Press the Crust into the Pan
Set aside ½–¾ cup of the oat mixture for topping.

Press the remaining mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

Step 8: Layer the Berry Filling
Spoon the thickened berry filling over the oat crust.

Spread it out evenly to fully cover the base.

Step 9: Add the Crumb Topping
Sprinkle the reserved oat mixture over the berry layer.

Use your fingers to break it into large or small clusters depending on your desired look.

Step 10: Bake the Bars
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the edges turn golden and the top is lightly crisp.

Step 11: Cool Completely Before Slicing
Allow the bars to cool in the pan so they firm up and hold their shape.

Once cooled, slice and enjoy!

Step 12: Store for Later
Store the bars in the fridge, loosely covered, for up to 5 days.

Perfect for breakfast meal prep or a sweet afternoon treat!

What to Serve It With

Hot coffee or herbal tea

A scoop of coconut yogurt or dairy-free whipped cream

Fresh fruit for an extra boost of fiber and color

Variations & Substitutions

Swap berries: Use all blueberries, raspberries, or a mix—whatever you love!

Change the flour: Try oat flour or gluten-free flour if you don’t have almond flour.

Add nuts: Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans into the crumble for crunch.

Vegan-friendly: Already vegan and gluten-free—no changes needed!

Storage & Leftovers

Refrigerator: Store cooled bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezer: Freeze cut bars for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

To reheat: Warm a bar in the microwave for 10–15 seconds for a soft, gooey texture.

FAQs

How do I keep the bars from crumbling when slicing?
Let them cool completely in the pan before slicing.

Chilling helps them firm up even more.

Can I use fresh berries instead of frozen?
Yes, but the cooking time may be shorter since fresh berries release less liquid.

Is tapioca starch the same as cornstarch?
They both thicken sauces, but tapioca starch gives a silkier texture.

You can substitute cornstarch 1:1 if needed.

Can I use butter instead of coconut oil?
Sure! Just make sure it’s softened and use the same amount.

How do I make this without almond flour?
Try using oat flour or a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend instead.

Are these bars sweet enough for dessert?
Definitely! They’re lightly sweetened and perfect as a healthy treat.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes—use a 9×13-inch pan and add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Final Thoughts

These Mixed Berry Oatmeal Bars are the ultimate feel-good treat.

Sweet, tart, crunchy, and gooey all in one bite—and they’re made with ingredients you can feel good about!

Whether you’re baking for breakfast meal prep or a wholesome dessert, this recipe is a keeper.