| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 30 mins – 35 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 450 | 20g | 5g | 65g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 30g | 7g | 6g | 0.2g |
Why I Love Canadian Vegan Saskatoon Berry Oatmeal Bars with Almond Glaze and Toasted Coconut
Growing up in southern kitchens, I was always fascinated by the art of baking and the delightful aromas that would permeate throughout our home in Charleston. But what really excited me was the ability to take ordinary ingredients and transform them into something extraordinary. This love for the culinary arts has not only influenced my Southern-style cooking but also allowed me to explore and treasure dishes from different cultures. Case in point — the delightful Canadian sweet treat known as Saskatoon Berry Oatmeal Bars, which I’ve given my own unique twist to create a recipe for Vegan Saskatoon Berry Oatmeal Bars with Almond Glaze and Toasted Coconut.
The Allure of Saskatoon Berries
If you have not yet tasted the wonders of Saskatoon berries, you are certainly in for a treat. Resonant of blueberries, yet possessing a unique nutty flavor, Saskatoon berries add a delightful punch of tartness that perfectly balances out the sweetness in these oatmeal bars. And did I mention they are packed with antioxidants? This native Canadian fruit truly deserves a spotlight in the culinary world. I first discovered them through famed Canadian chef Michael Smith, whose recipes always bring forth the essence of home and comfort. While he hasn’t directly inspired this recipe, his cooking style has certainly influenced my approach.
Fusion of Flavors
What sets these Vegan Saskatoon Berry Oatmeal Bars with Almond Glaze and Toasted Coconut apart from similar treats, like the well-loved granola bar or classic oatmeal cookie, is the fusion of flavors that each bite offers. The comforting texture of the rolled oats combined with the subtle sweetness from the brown sugar, the delightful buttery flavor from the vegan margarine, and the unique combination of the Saskatoon berries create a symphony of tastes that makes for an indulgent snack or a healthy breakfast alternative.
The crowning glory of these bars is the almond glaze made with almond milk and almond extract. This luscious glaze adds a layer of decadence to the bars, making them almost dessert-like. Finally, sprinkled with toasted shredded coconut, not only does it make these bars a treat for the eyes, but it also adds a delightful crunch and touch of tropical flavor.
An Ideal Companion to Your Favorite Beverages
Whether enjoyed with a glass of almond milk or a robust cup of coffee, these Saskatoon Berry Oatmeal Bars are the perfect companion to your favorite beverage. I also like serving them alongside a fresh fruit salad, to make for a wholesome and fulfilling breakfast. However you choose to enjoy them, they’re sure to transport you from the coastal city of Charleston, all the way to the beautiful Canadian prairies, from the very first bite!
What You’ll Need
- 1.5 cups Saskatoon berries
- 1.5 cups rolled oats
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup vegan margarine
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup almond milk
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons almond extract
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, salt, and baking powder.
Step Two
Combine the vegan margarine and vanilla extract into the oat and flour mixture. Work in the margarine until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step Three
Press half of this oat mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the Saskatoon berries evenly over the top, and then cover with the remaining oat mixture.
Step Four
Bake in the preheated oven until the top is golden brown, this should take approximately 30-35 minutes. Allow it to cool completely to room temperature.
Step Five
To prepare the almond glaze, whisk together the almond milk, powdered sugar, and almond extract until smooth.
Step Six
Spread the glaze evenly over the cooled bars.
Step Seven
Sprinkle the shredded coconut over the glaze, and gently press it into the surface. Allow the glaze to set before cutting into bars.
Step Eight
For a toasted touch, you can optionally toast the coconut before using it for garnishing. Spread the coconut in a thin layer on a baking sheet and bake it at 350°F until golden brown. Watch it closely, as it will toast very quickly!
Step Nine
Store these Vegan Saskatoon Berry Oatmeal Bars in an airtight container at room temperature, and enjoy a delicious vegan treat anytime!
