Blueberry, Almond & Pistachio Oat Bars

This year I've been making some changes in my diet to make sure I eat a little more healthier. I've always been someone who enjoys a sweet treat with my afternoon cup of tea so it's been difficult to find some alternatives that are tasty yet aren't too calorific and have some nutritional value.

These oat bars are the perfect combination of sweetness with healthy, clean ingredients. First off, the base is made from oats which is a good source of whole grains that lower the risk of diseases, such as high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes.

Other healthy ingredients, such as, bananas, almonds and blueberries are just some of the things that are included and help fight disease, build muscle and burn fat, not to mention satisfying any cravings too!

It's good to know you are putting clean food into your body. They're super easy and quick to make. This recipe makes 8 slices so there's more than enough for the week.

Here's how I make them;

Ingredients

For the base:

500g oats
250g chopped almonds
4 tbsp honey
1 tbsp coconut oil
1 tsp kosher salt
1 1/2 tsp cinnamon
2 mashed bananas
1 1/2 tsp vanilla

For the topping:

125g oats

60g chopped almonds

60g pistachio nuts

250g fresh blueberries

honey for drizzling

1/4 tsp cinnamon

Method

1. Preheat your oven to 175ºC (350ºF).
2. Line a 8x8 baking tin with parchment paper and lightly grease with coconut oil.
3. Add all the base ingredients into a mixing bowl and mix until everything has combined together.
4. Pour the mixture into the baking tin and smooth out until evenly spread.
5. Bake for 10-15 minutes until golden brown.
6. Whilst the oat mixture is in the oven, combine the topping ingredients together.
7. Remove the oat bake from the oven and leave to cool for a few minutes.
8. Once the oat bake has cooled, drizzle a little honey over the top and sprinkle on the topping.
9. Cut into 8 slices and enjoy with a cup of tea.

*These can be kept in the fridge, stored in an airtight container and should be eaten within one week.