If you’re searching for a nutritious and satisfying way to kickstart your day, look no further than wholesome oatmeal breakfast bars. These delightful treats not only provide essential energy but also offer a customizable base, allowing you to include your favorite ingredients like nuts, fruits, or seeds. Moreover, they can easily be prepared in advance, making them a convenient option for busy mornings.
Beyond their practicality, oatmeal breakfast bars tempt the taste buds with a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors. Picture biting into a soft, chewy bar that’s packed with wholesome goodness. Whether you need a quick snack on-the-go or a post-workout refuel, these nutritious creations are truly one of the simplest ways to nourish your body and boost your morning routine.
What Makes Healthy:
Oatmeal breakfast bars are packed with nutritious ingredients, making them an excellent choice for a wholesome start to your day. Firstly, oats are a rich source of dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion and providing long-lasting energy. They also contain essential vitamins and minerals that support various bodily functions. Moreover, these bars can include nuts and dried fruits, adding healthy fats and natural sweetness without refined sugars.
For those seeking additional protein, consider incorporating Greek yogurt or nut butter, which further enhances the nutritional profile. If you’re looking for inspiration on other healthy snacks, check out these dried fruit and nut bars that make for a delightful and nourishing alternative.
Additionally, you can customize your oatmeal bars with different flavorings such as cinnamon, vanilla, or even cocoa powder, allowing for endless variations while keeping your breakfast both exciting and healthy.
Ingredients for Oatmeal Breakfast Bars:
These Oatmeal Breakfast Bars are delightful for breakfast or a snack. They’re simple to make and packed with heart-healthy ingredients. To prepare them, gather these specific ingredients:
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats (certified gluten-free)
- ½ cup granulated sugar (or substitute with bananas for a sugar-free option)
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (can substitute with nutmeg or cardamom)
- 2 large eggs (or a flax egg for a vegan option)
- ½ cup almond milk (any milk will work)
- ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce (or replace with mashed banana)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- ¼ cup walnuts, finely chopped
- ¼ cup dried cranberries
For an exciting twist, consider adding frozen fruits or drizzling melted chocolate on top after baking. Your family will love these chewy bars! For more snack inspiration, check out Dried Fruit and Nut Bars.
How to Prepare:
To kick off your delicious oatmeal breakfast bars, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later. In a medium mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of old-fashioned rolled oats, ½ cup of granulated sugar, 1½ teaspoons of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of cinnamon. Whisk these dry ingredients together until evenly mixed.
In a separate large bowl, combine 2 large eggs, ½ cup of almond milk, ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth. Combine these wet and dry mixtures into one bowl, stirring well to incorporate. Allow the mixture to rest for about 20 minutes to let the oats absorb moisture. Then, fold in ¼ cup of chopped walnuts and dried cranberries. Spread this mixture evenly in the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown at the edges. For more variations, consider checking out recipes like Dried Fruit and Nut Bars.
Flavor Variations for Oatmeal Breakfast Bars:
Oatmeal breakfast bars are incredibly versatile, allowing you to experiment with different flavors and mix-ins. For a nutty twist, try adding chopped walnuts or almonds to your base mixture. If you prefer a fruity touch, toss in dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a delightful chew. Additionally, incorporating spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile, making the bars aromatic and warm.
For a fun variation, consider using a banana-infused base. These banana oatmeal cookies provide moisture and natural sweetness, enhancing your breakfast bar experience. You can also add chocolate chips for a treat that feels indulgent yet healthy. Don’t forget to drizzle almond butter or honey on top for added richness. With these options, you can create a custom breakfast bar that suits your taste buds perfectly. Enjoy the endless possibilities!
Nutritional Benefits of Oatmeal Breakfast Bars:
Oatmeal breakfast bars are an excellent choice for a nutritious start to your day. Packed with fiber, they promote digestive health while keeping you feeling full and satisfied longer. The oats used in these bars are a great source of complex carbohydrates, providing energy without the crash that comes from refined sugars. Additionally, these bars can be customized with nuts, seeds, and dried fruits, enhancing their nutrient profile with healthy fats and vitamins.
For those seeking extra protein, try incorporating elements from my recipe for Peanut Butter Greek Yogurt Cookie Pie Bars. This combination not only boosts the protein content but also adds delightful flavors and textures. Moreover, oatmeal breakfast bars can be made gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs. Overall, these bars are a wholesome and convenient option, perfect for busy mornings or a midday snack.
Storage Tips for Oatmeal Breakfast Bars:
To ensure your oatmeal breakfast bars remain fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to extend their life, refrigerate them for up to two weeks. Alternatively, freeze individual bars wrapped in plastic wrap or foil, making them an ideal healthy snack that’s easy to grab. For more nutritious treats, check out these dried fruit and nut bars.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What are Oatmeal Breakfast Bars?
Oatmeal breakfast bars are nutritious, portable snacks made primarily with oats, which provide a wholesome start to your day. They can be enhanced with various ingredients like fruits, nuts, and sweeteners, making them delicious and satisfying.
How do I store my homemade oatmeal breakfast bars?
To keep your homemade oatmeal bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Alternatively, you can refrigerate them for longer shelf life. For a quick grab-and-go option, consider wrapping them individually.
Can I customize my oatmeal bars?
Absolutely! The beauty of these bars lies in their versatility. You can experiment with add-ins such as chocolate chips, dried fruits, or even nut butters. For inspiration, you might try something similar to my Dried Fruit and Nut Bars.
Are oatmeal breakfast bars gluten-free?
Oatmeal has a naturally gluten-free base; however, ensure to select certified gluten-free oats if you have gluten intolerance. This small choice guarantees your breakfast bars remain safe and enjoyable.
How can I make oatmeal bars healthier?
To enhance the health profile of your oatmeal bars, opt for natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup instead of refined sugars. Incorporate healthy toppings, such as seeds or nuts, to boost the nutritional value.
What can I pair with oatmeal breakfast bars?
These bars pair wonderfully with yogurt, fresh fruit, or a drizzle of nut butter to create a balanced breakfast. Feel free to experiment with flavors to find your ideal combination.
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Oatmeal Breakfast Bars: The Perfect Morning Treat You Need
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy these chewy Oatmeal Breakfast Bars as a nutritious start to your day or a healthy snack. Packed with heart-healthy oats and customizable add-ins, they’re perfect for meal prepping.
Ingredients
2 cups rolled oats
½ cup granulated sugar
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon cinnamon
2 large eggs
½ cup almond milk
¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ cup walnuts finely chopped
¼ cup dried cranberries
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper hanging over the edge.
- In a medium bowl, combine the dry ingredients including the rolled oats, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon together.
- In another large bowl, combine the wet ingredients including the eggs, milk, applesauce, and vanilla extract.
- Transfer the dry ingredients over the wet ingredients and set aside until flavors blend, about 20 minutes.
- Fold in the walnuts and cranberries, and spread combined mixture into prepared square pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven until edges are golden brown, about 25-30 minutes. Allow to cool on wire rack for 5 minutes before slicing. Cut into 16 bars.
Notes
Allow the mixture to soak for at least 20 minutes to ensure the bars hold together well. Use a larger piece of parchment paper to make removal easier.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Dessert
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 190 kcal
- Sugar: 9 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
Keywords: Oatmeal Breakfast Bars, chewy granola bars, healthy snacks, meal prep, gluten-free