Blueberry Lemon Yogurt Breakfast Squares
Highlighted under: Fresh Favorites
I absolutely love starting my day with these Blueberry Lemon Yogurt Breakfast Squares. The combination of fresh blueberries and zesty lemon creates a bright flavor that just wakes up my taste buds. These squares are not only delicious but also packed with protein and calcium, making them a great option for a healthy breakfast or snack. Plus, they are easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, which is perfect for busy mornings. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to keep them on your breakfast rotation!
When I first tried making these Blueberry Lemon Yogurt Breakfast Squares, I was pleasantly surprised by how the tangy yogurt complements the sweet blueberries. I experimented with different ratios, and I found that a good amount of lemon zest truly elevates the dish, giving it that refreshing kick. It’s the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness!
What I love most is how versatile this recipe is; you can easily substitute other fruits like raspberries or strawberries if blueberries aren’t on hand. I also learned that letting them cool completely before cutting ensures clean edges and perfect squares. Enjoy your morning boost!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bright and fresh flavors with a perfect balance of sweetness
- Healthy alternative to traditional breakfast options
- Great for meal prep, so you can grab a square on the go
Perfecting the Texture
To achieve that ideal texture in your Blueberry Lemon Yogurt Breakfast Squares, it’s crucial not to overmix your batter. Overmixing can result in dense squares that lack the soft, cake-like texture you want. Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until you don't see any dry flour; small lumps are perfectly fine. Additionally, folding gently ensures that the blueberries remain intact, providing delightful bursts of flavor in each bite.
Using room temperature ingredients can also make a significant difference. If your Greek yogurt and milk are too cold, they can lead to uneven mixing and affect the overall rise of the squares. Allow them to sit out for about 30 minutes before you start preparing the batter for optimal results.
Substitutions and Variations
If you need a dairy-free or lower-calorie option, try substituting the Greek yogurt with unsweetened almond yogurt and using a plant-based milk. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor and texture, but it can still be delicious. For a gluten-free version, opt for a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend; just ensure it includes a binding agent like xanthan gum for the best results.
You can also experiment with the fruit in this recipe. While blueberries bring a lovely sweetness, feel free to use raspberries, chopped strawberries, or even diced peaches for a different flavor profile. Just remember that more watery fruits like watermelon may not provide the same structural integrity in the squares.
Ingredients
For the Squares
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to prepare your squares!
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt, milk, honey, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Gently fold in the blueberries, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and Cut
Let the squares cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting into squares.
Enjoy your delicious and nutritious breakfast squares!
Pro Tips
- For an extra touch, sprinkle some lemon zest on top before serving. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Storage and Make-Ahead Options
These Blueberry Lemon Yogurt Breakfast Squares can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. Once cooled completely, cut them into squares and store them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. This makes them a convenient grab-and-go breakfast option for busy mornings.
If you want to prepare them even further in advance, consider freezing the squares. They freeze well for up to three months. Just wrap each square individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. To enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, or microwave them for 30-60 seconds until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions
For an extra touch of indulgence, serve your breakfast squares with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of yogurt on top. A sprinkle of chopped nuts can also add a delightful crunch and additional nutrition. Pair these squares with a cup of your favorite tea or coffee for a balanced breakfast experience.
You can also customize them by serving with a fresh fruit salad or a squeeze of additional lemon juice for an extra zing. Try adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a light glaze made from lemon juice and powdered sugar for a sweet finish—this can elevate the presentation and flavor of your breakfast squares.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen blueberries work well; just make sure to adjust the baking time slightly as they may release more moisture.
→ How can I make these squares gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or almond flour for a gluten-free option.
→ Can I add other fruits?
Definitely! You can experiment with raspberries, strawberries, or even a mix of berries for a different flavor.
→ How should I store these breakfast squares?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.
Blueberry Lemon Yogurt Breakfast Squares
I absolutely love starting my day with these Blueberry Lemon Yogurt Breakfast Squares. The combination of fresh blueberries and zesty lemon creates a bright flavor that just wakes up my taste buds. These squares are not only delicious but also packed with protein and calcium, making them a great option for a healthy breakfast or snack. Plus, they are easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, which is perfect for busy mornings. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to keep them on your breakfast rotation!
Created by: Ione Rutherford
Recipe Type: Fresh Favorites
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 squares
What You'll Need
For the Squares
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt, milk, honey, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Gently fold in the blueberries, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the squares cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting into squares.
Extra Tips
- For an extra touch, sprinkle some lemon zest on top before serving. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 70mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 6g