Registered dietitian and mum of three Aoife Hearne shares her recipe for baked berry squares – a simple oaty bake that’s packed with goodness and flavour, and makes a lovely treat any time of day.
These squares are soft, lightly sweet, and studded with juicy blueberries, making them a handy option for lunchboxes, after-school snacks, or a relaxed weekend bake with the kids.
You may also enjoy: Aoife Hearne’s Beetroot and Orange Breakfast Smoothie
Baked Berry Squares Recipe
Makes: 12
Ingredients
- 235g Flahavan’s Super Oats
- 2 eggs
- 120g apple compote
- 240ml skimmed milk
- 15g ground flaxseed
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- 1½ tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp salt
- 90g blueberries
- 40g brown sugar
Method
1. Preheat the oven to 175°C.
2. Mix the oats, eggs, blueberries, apple compote, brown sugar, milk, flaxseed, baking powder, cinnamon, vanilla and salt together in a large bowl. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Bake in the preheated oven until the moisture is absorbed and the oats are tender, 25 to 30 minutes.
4. Cut into 12 equal portions and serve.
Aoife’s Top Tips
Aoife’s recipes make the most of oats – a budget-friendly and versatile everyday ingredient that fits easily into family meals and snacks. If you’re looking for more ways to get your family off to a good start, take a look at how a healthy breakfast for kids can make a real difference to mood and energy through the day.
Credit: Baked Berry Squares recipe and image extracted from Aoife Hearne’s cookbook The Plan: Eat Well, Lose Weight, Transform Your Life, published by Gill Books.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen blueberries work well in this recipe. There’s no need to defrost them first – just fold them into the mixture straight from the freezer, though the bake may need a few extra minutes in the oven.
Can I swap the blueberries for other fruit?
Other soft berries, such as raspberries or chopped strawberries, can generally be substituted in similar quantities. The texture may vary slightly depending on how juicy the fruit is.
How should I store the baked berry squares?
Once cooled, store them in an airtight container. They’re best enjoyed within a few days, kept in the fridge for freshness.
Can I freeze them?
Yes, these squares freeze well. Wrap portions individually and freeze, then defrost as needed for a quick snack or lunchbox addition.
Are these squares suitable for young children?
They’re a wholesome option for family snacking, but as with any recipe, check ingredients against your own child’s dietary needs, including any allergies.
You Might Also Like
- Aoife Hearne’s Beetroot and Orange Breakfast Smoothie
- 10 Quick & Easy Overnight Oats Recipes That Kids Will Love
- Super Food Breakfast Ideas for Kids
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