Blueberry Lemon Breakfast Squares

Name: Blueberry Lemon Breakfast Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup fresh blueberries; Zest of 1 lemon; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Highlighted under: Express Kitchen

I love starting my day with something fresh and invigorating, which is why these Blueberry Lemon Breakfast Squares have become a favorite in our household. The tangy lemon zest combined with the sweet juiciness of blueberries creates a delightful balance that wakes up my taste buds every morning. They are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making them a perfect addition to our breakfast routine. Plus, they hold up well in the fridge, so I can enjoy them throughout the week!

Created by

Penelope Dawson

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:19:15.002Z

When I first set out to make these breakfast squares, I wanted to create a recipe that captures the essence of summer mornings. While testing different versions, I discovered that using fresh blueberries and a hint of lemon juice made all the difference. The result is a moist and flavorful square that feels like a treat while still being wholesome.

The key here is to not overmix the batter. This will ensure a light and airy texture, allowing the blueberries to burst beautifully as they bake. I often pair these with a cup of herbal tea for a rejuvenating start to my day.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bright and zesty flavor from fresh lemon
Juicy blueberries in every bite
Perfect for meal prep and on-the-go breakfasts

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh blueberries is key to achieving maximum flavor and texture in these breakfast squares. Choose plump berries that are free from any mold or squished ones. If fresh blueberries aren’t available, you can substitute with frozen blueberries, but remember to fold them in gently to avoid breaking them apart, which can create a blue swirl instead of distinct berries in every bite.

Equally important is the use of fresh lemon juice and zest. The bright citrus notes from freshly zested lemon will stand out much more than the bottled alternatives. Additionally, the zest contains essential oils that enhance the flavor profile, so don’t skip this step! Use a microplane for fine zesting to maximize extraction without the bitter pith.

Baking Technique Tips

For perfectly baked squares, it’s crucial to monitor the baking time closely. Your oven might require slight adjustments; watch for golden-brown edges, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. This is a sign that your squares are done but still moist. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture, so err on the side of caution during the last few minutes.

Allow the squares to cool completely in the pan before cutting. If you cut them too soon, they may crumble or fall apart. I recommend letting them cool for at least 20 minutes. To enhance the flavor further, you could drizzle a light lemon glaze on top once cooled using a mixture of powdered sugar and lemon juice.

Ingredients

For the Breakfast Squares

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup fresh blueberries
Zest of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the flour, oats, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, egg, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.

Add Blueberries

Gently fold in the blueberries, being careful not to crush them.

Bake

Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking pan and bake for 30 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow to cool before cutting into squares.

Pro Tips

For extra lemon flavor, add a tablespoon of lemon zest to the batter. If using frozen blueberries, do not thaw them to avoid excess moisture.

Storage and Meal Prep

These Blueberry Lemon Breakfast Squares store wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you’d like to keep them for longer, consider freezing them. For best results, wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months, so you’ll always have a quick breakfast option on hand.

To serve, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. For a quick reheating option, pop them in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds for a freshly baked taste, or place them in a toaster oven to warm up and maintain a slight crispness on the edges.

Variations and Additions

Feel free to experiment with add-ins based on your preferences! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch, while substituting half a cup of the rolled oats with almond meal or coconut flour will add a unique flavor and texture. For a twist, swap the blueberries for other berries like raspberries or blackberries, adjusting the sugar slightly to account for varying sweetness.

If you're looking for a healthier version, consider replacing the brown sugar with a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey, adjusting the wet ingredients accordingly. These small changes can keep your breakfast squares interesting throughout the week while maintaining that zesty blueberry flavor!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, but do not thaw them before adding to the batter. This prevents excess moisture in the recipe.

→ How should I store the breakfast squares?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I substitute oat flour for all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can use oat flour, but the texture may be slightly different. You might need to adjust the liquid in the recipe.

→ What can I serve with these breakfast squares?

They pair wonderfully with Greek yogurt or a drizzle of honey for added sweetness.