Baked Oatmeal Bars Recipe: A Healthy and Delicious Grab-and-Go Breakfast

Looking for a wholesome, filling breakfast that you can make ahead of time and enjoy all week? Baked Oatmeal Bars are the perfect solution! Packed with fiber, whole grains, and customizable flavors, these bars are not only nutritious but also incredibly delicious. Whether you’re rushing out the door or just want a quick snack, these bars provide a balanced combination of oats, fruit, and nuts that will keep you satisfied and energized all morning.

Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make, and you can tailor them to suit your tastes. Add your favorite fruits, nuts, and spices to make them uniquely yours. Let’s dive into how to make these healthy, delicious bars!

Why Baked Oatmeal Bars Are So Special

Baked Oatmeal Bars stand out because they’re a convenient and healthy way to enjoy the benefits of oatmeal without having to cook it every morning. These bars are rich in fiber, protein, and healthy fats, making them the perfect breakfast or snack option. You can prepare them in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer, making them ideal for busy mornings or meal prepping.

Not only are these bars nutritious, but they’re also highly customizable. You can add a variety of fruits, nuts, seeds, and spices to adjust the flavor to your liking. Whether you prefer them sweet or savory, these baked oatmeal bars are versatile enough to accommodate everyone’s tastes.

Key Ingredients for Baked Oatmeal Bars

Making Baked Oatmeal Bars requires a handful of simple ingredients, many of which you likely already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients for Baked Oatmeal Bars (Makes 12 bars)

• 2 cups rolled oats (gluten-free oats if needed)
• 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy, like almond or oat milk)
• 1/2 cup maple syrup (or honey)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce (or mashed banana)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon (or pumpkin pie spice)
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup fresh or dried fruit (like blueberries, raisins, or chopped apples)
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (like walnuts, almonds, or pecans)
• 1/4 cup seeds (like chia seeds, flax seeds, or sunflower seeds, optional)

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (for a sweet treat)
• 1 tbsp nut butter (peanut butter, almond butter, or cashew butter)
• 1/4 cup shredded coconut (for added texture)
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (for added protein and creaminess)

How to Make Baked Oatmeal Bars

Making these Baked Oatmeal Bars is simple and only takes a few minutes of prep. Here’s how to make them:

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Baked Oatmeal Bars

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Pan:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, maple syrup, applesauce, and vanilla extract until well combined.

3. Combine the Dry Ingredients:

In a separate bowl, stir together the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. If you’re using any optional spices like nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice, add them here.

4. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients:

Add the dry oat mixture to the wet ingredients and stir until everything is combined. The mixture will be thick and slightly runny, but that’s perfect for oatmeal bars.

5. Add Fruits and Nuts:

Fold in the fresh or dried fruit and chopped nuts. If you’re adding seeds or any other optional ingredients, mix them in at this point as well.

6. Bake the Bars:

Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the bars are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden and slightly firm to the touch.

7. Let Cool and Slice:

Once the oatmeal bars are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing them into 12 bars.

Serving Suggestions for Baked Oatmeal Bars

These Baked Oatmeal Bars are delicious on their own, but you can pair them with other dishes or toppings to create a more complete breakfast.

What to Serve with Baked Oatmeal Bars

• Fresh Fruit: Serve with a side of fresh fruit like berries, banana slices, or apple wedges for a refreshing, healthy breakfast.
• Yogurt: Pair these bars with a scoop of Greek yogurt or dairy-free yogurt for extra protein and creaminess.
• Nut Butter: Spread a little peanut butter or almond butter on top of the bars for a boost of healthy fats and added flavor.

Beverage Pairing for Baked Oatmeal Bars

• Coffee: A warm cup of coffee pairs perfectly with the sweetness and heartiness of these oatmeal bars.
• Herbal Tea: Try a light herbal tea, such as chamomile or peppermint, for a calming and refreshing pairing.
• Smoothie: Serve the oatmeal bars with a green smoothie or a fruit smoothie for a nutritious, filling breakfast.

Tips for Perfect Baked Oatmeal Bars

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Stir the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined. Overmixing the batter can make the bars dense and dry.
• Customize the Toppings: You can customize the bars with your favorite fruits, nuts, or seeds. Feel free to get creative with the flavor combinations!
• Use Quick Oats for a Softer Texture: If you prefer a softer texture, you can substitute rolled oats with quick oats, though rolled oats give the bars more structure.
• Add Protein: To make these bars even more filling, consider adding a scoop of protein powder or a dollop of Greek yogurt to the batter.
• Check for Doneness Early: Start checking the bars at 25 minutes. The top should be golden, and a toothpick should come out clean when inserted in the center.

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FAQs

1. Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes! These bars are perfect for meal prep. You can make them ahead of time, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate them for up to a week.

2. Can I freeze baked oatmeal bars?

Absolutely! Once the bars are cool, store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. To reheat, just pop them in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or thaw them overnight in the fridge.

3. Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, you can make these bars gluten-free by using gluten-free rolled oats. Just ensure all other ingredients, like your baking powder and sweeteners, are gluten-free as well.

4. Can I use a different type of sweetener?

Yes! You can substitute maple syrup with honey, agave nectar, or stevia for a lower glycemic index option. Just adjust the amount to your desired sweetness level.

5. Can I add protein to these bars?

Yes, you can add protein powder to the batter! Add about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of your favorite protein powder to the dry ingredients, or mix in some Greek yogurt for added protein.

6. Can I use frozen fruit in these bars?

Yes, frozen fruit works well, though it may release a little more moisture. If you’re using frozen fruit, make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the batter.

7. How can I make these bars spicier?

If you like a bit of spice, add ground ginger or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter. These spices complement the sweetness of the fruit and oats beautifully.

8. Can I make these bars dairy-free?

Yes, simply use dairy-free milk (like almond or coconut milk) and replace the yogurt with a dairy-free option, such as coconut yogurt or a dairy-free Greek-style yogurt.

9. Can I add chocolate to the oatmeal bars?

Yes, chocolate is a delicious addition! Add dark chocolate chips or cocoa powder to the batter for a sweet, indulgent twist. Just be mindful of how much you add to keep the bars balanced.

10. How do I know when the oatmeal bars are done?

The oatmeal bars are done when the top is golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.