Baked Oatmeal Bars are the perfect solution for busy mornings or a wholesome snack option that everyone in the family can enjoy. These bars are bursting with flavor, made from simple ingredients, and can be customized to suit your taste buds. Whether you’re looking to fuel your day with a nutritious breakfast or whip up a healthy treat, these Baked Oatmeal Bars are a fantastic choice. They’re easy to prepare, and the best part? They’re incredibly versatile! Let’s dive into this delicious recipe.
Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing
There’s something about baked oatmeal that makes it a universal favorite. The warm, comforting texture combined with a hint of sweetness creates a delightful experience with every bite. These Baked Oatmeal Bars are not only satisfying but are also perfect for meal prep. You can make a batch ahead of time and have a healthy breakfast ready to grab-and-go throughout the week. Plus, with the option to add your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts, you can easily cater to different taste preferences.
Ingredient List
- 2 cups rolled oats: The base of our bars, providing fiber and nutrients.
- 1 1/3 cup mashed banana: For natural sweetness and moisture; for banana-free, try these Baked Oats.
- 6 tbsp water: To help bind the ingredients together.
- 1/2 tsp salt: A pinch to enhance flavor.
- 3 tbsp pure maple syrup, agave, or honey: To sweeten the bars naturally; substitute with stevia if desired.
- 3 tbsp oil, nut butter, or additional water: For moisture and richness.
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract: To add a lovely aroma and flavor.
- Optional: A handful of chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruits for extra flavor and texture.
What’s in the Gear List
- Mixing bowl: For combining ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accuracy in your recipe.
- Baking dish: A 9×9 inch or similar size works well for these bars.
- Spatula: For mixing and spreading the mixture evenly.
- Oven: Preheat to ensure even baking.
From Start to Finish: Baked Oatmeal Bars
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Baked Oatmeal Bars cook evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Lightly grease your baking dish with oil or line it with parchment paper for easy removal of the bars later.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats and salt. Stir them together to evenly distribute the salt.
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Add in the water, maple syrup (or sweetener of your choice), oil or nut butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir until everything is thoroughly combined. If you’re using optional mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts, fold them in at this stage.
Step 6: Spread in Baking Dish
Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the dish, ensuring it’s packed tightly.
Step 7: Bake
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Once slightly cooled, slice into bars and enjoy warm, or let them cool completely before storing.
Health-Conscious Tweaks
- For a gluten-free option, use certified gluten-free oats.
- Substitute the sweetener with a sugar-free version to reduce sugar content.
- Add in superfoods like chia seeds or flaxseeds for an extra nutrient boost.
- Replace oil with applesauce for a lower-fat version.
Things That Go Wrong
Even the best recipes can sometimes go awry. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Bars are too crumbly: Ensure you’re using enough liquid and that the mixture is well-combined.
- Bars are too dry: Check your oven temperature; it may be running hot. You can also add a bit more water or banana.
- Uneven baking: Make sure to spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish.
- Overcooked edges: Keep an eye on the bars during the last few minutes of baking.
Storage & Reheat Guide
Once cooled, store your Baked Oatmeal Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, they can be refrigerated for up to a week or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or enjoy them cold!
Troubleshooting Q&A
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
While you can use quick oats, it may change the texture of your bars, making them softer. Rolled oats provide a chewier consistency that works well in baked oatmeal bars.
What can I substitute for mashed banana?
If you’re not a fan of banana, you can use unsweetened applesauce or pumpkin puree for a similar moisture content and sweetness.
Can I make these bars vegan?
Absolutely! Use maple syrup as a sweetener and substitute the oil with a plant-based butter or nut butter.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the edges are golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If it comes out with wet batter, they need more time in the oven.
Let’s Eat
These Baked Oatmeal Bars are not just a fantastic addition to your breakfast routine; they are an ideal snack that can be enjoyed any time of day. With their wholesome ingredients and customizable options, you can delight in a healthy treat that satisfies your cravings. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let’s get baking! You’ll soon discover your new favorite way to enjoy oats.
Baked Oatmeal Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for even baking.
- Lightly grease your baking dish with oil or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats and salt.
- In a separate bowl, mash the bananas until smooth, then mix in water, maple syrup, oil or nut butter, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until combined. Add optional mix-ins if desired.
- Transfer the mixture to the baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool for 10 minutes, then slice into bars and enjoy!
Notes
- To make gluten-free, use certified gluten-free oats.
- For lower sugar, substitute sweetener with a sugar-free version.
- Add chia seeds or flaxseeds for an extra nutrient boost.
