These breakfast bars are the perfect handy snack to kickstart your day! Packed with oats, nuts, and a hint of sweetness, they will keep you full and satisfied.
I love whipping up a batch on the weekend. They’re great for busy mornings or a pre-workout boost. Plus, they taste just as good as they look! Who needs cereal? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: The base of these bars, offering fiber and energy. If you’re gluten-free, look for certified gluten-free oats. Quick oats will work too, but they’ll give a softer texture.
Chopped Nuts: I love walnuts for their crunch and healthy fats, but almonds or pecans are great too. You can also swap nuts for seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds if you prefer a nut-free option.
Nut Butter: Peanut butter adds a lovely flavor, but almond or cashew butter works well too. For a different taste, try sunflower seed butter to keep it nut-free!
Honey or Maple Syrup: Both sweeteners add flavor. Honey is thicker, but if you’re vegan, maple syrup is an excellent substitute that keeps it vegan-friendly!
How Do I Get Perfectly Packed Bars?
To ensure your breakfast bars hold together, proper packing is key! Follow these steps:
- Before baking, really press the mixture into the pan. Use a flat-bottomed spatula or your hands to compact it tightly.
- Don’t skip the baking step! It helps the ingredients bond together. Bake until the edges are golden, but don’t let them get too dark.
- Allow cooling completely in the pan for at least 30 minutes before cutting. This helps them to firm up further.
With these tips and ingredient swaps, you can make these breakfast bars your own! Enjoy healthy snacking!
How to Make Tasty Breakfast Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Basic Ingredients:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or almonds)
- 1/2 cup nut butter (peanut butter or almond butter)
- 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1/2 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 15 to 20 minutes to bake. Be sure to let the bars cool completely before cutting for the best results!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take an 8×8 inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper. Leave some paper hanging over the edges as this will help you lift the bars out later. Easy, right?
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped nuts, and if you’re using them, any dried fruits you like. Give it a good stir so everything is well mixed!
3. Make the Wet Mixture:
Now, grab a small saucepan and set it over low heat. Add the nut butter and honey (or maple syrup). Stir gently while heating until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. Remove it from the heat and then stir in the vanilla extract and salt for extra flavor.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Pour the warm nut butter mixture into the bowl with the oats and nuts. Mix everything together until the dry ingredients are completely coated. It might take a bit of elbow grease, but you got this!
5. Pack it Down:
Transfer the mixture into the lined baking pan, spreading it evenly. Use a spatula or your hands to press the mixture down firmly. Make sure it’s nice and compact; this helps the bars hold together.
6. Bake the Bars:
Pop the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. You want the edges to turn golden brown, but be careful not to overbake them!
7. Cool and Cut:
Once done, take the pan out of the oven and let it cool completely. This can take about 30 minutes. Use the parchment paper to lift the block of bars out of the pan and place it on a cutting board. Cut it into bars or squares, whichever shape you prefer.
8. Store and Enjoy:
Store your delicious breakfast bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They’re also great refrigerated for a longer shelf life. Enjoy your nutritious snack anytime!
These breakfast bars are a fantastic way to start your day or have on the go. They’re simple, tasty, and you can customize them with your favorite ingredients. Enjoy!
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats, but keep in mind that they may create a softer texture. Rolled oats offer more chewiness and a heartier bite, so choose based on your preference!
How Can I Sweeten These Breakfast Bars Without Honey?
If you’d like to avoid honey, maple syrup is a great alternative. You can also use agave syrup or even mashed ripe bananas for a natural sweetener!
Can I Freeze These Breakfast Bars?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in an airtight container. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Just thaw them overnight in the fridge or at room temperature when you’re ready to eat!
What Add-Ins Can I Use to Change Up the Flavor?
Feel free to get creative! You can add ingredients like chocolate chips, seeds (like chia or flaxseed), coconut flakes, or even spices like cinnamon for added flavor. Just keep the overall quantities balanced with the dry ingredients!
