Baked Oatmeal Bars

Baked Oatmeal Bars

Introduction

Baked Oatmeal Bars are a fantastic way to kickstart your day! They are not only tasty but also healthy, making them perfect for breakfast or snacks. These bars are filled with wholesome ingredients, and they can be made easily at home.

Why Make This Recipe

You’ll want to make these Baked Oatmeal Bars because they are quick to prepare, nutritious, and great for busy mornings. Plus, they are super customizable! You can add your favorite fruits, nuts, or even chocolate chips. Whether you’re feeding a family or just looking for a quick snack, these bars fit the bill perfectly.

How to Make Baked Oatmeal Bars

Ingredients:

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1/2 cup milk (or non-dairy alternative)
• 1/2 cup mashed bananas or applesauce
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup melted coconut oil or butter
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup mix-ins (nuts, chocolate chips, dried fruit, etc.)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, milk, mashed bananas or applesauce, honey or maple syrup, melted coconut oil or butter, baking powder, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Stir until everything is well combined.
3. Add in your favorite mix-ins and give it another mix!
4. Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.
5. Bake in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
6. Let it cool for a bit before cutting into bars and serving.

How to Serve Baked Oatmeal Bars

These bars can be served warm or at room temperature. They are great on their own, or you can enjoy them with yogurt or fresh fruit on top. They also make for a perfect grab-and-go snack!

How to Store Baked Oatmeal Bars

Once your Baked Oatmeal Bars are cool, store them in an airtight container. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight before you enjoy them again.

Tips to Make Baked Oatmeal Bars

• For extra sweetness, feel free to add more honey or maple syrup.
• You can substitute the bananas for applesauce or even pumpkin puree for different flavors.
• Experiment with different mix-ins—chocolate chips, dried fruit, or nuts work great!

Variation

You can make these bars gluten-free by using certified gluten-free oats. Additionally, you can try different spices like nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist.

FAQs

Q: Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

A: Yes, you can, but the texture may be different. Rolled oats give a chewier texture.

Q: How can I make these bars vegan?

A: Use non-dairy milk and maple syrup instead of honey.

Q: Can I add fresh fruit to the mixture?

A: Absolutely! Just be cautious with the amount of wet ingredients as it can change the texture. Diced apples or berries work well!