Baked Oatmeal Bars

Are you looking for a wholesome breakfast that’s easy to prepare and absolutely delicious? Look no further than Baked Oatmeal Bars! These delightful bars are not only packed with nutrients but also incredibly customizable. Whether you need a quick grab-and-go option in the morning or a satisfying snack during the day, Baked Oatmeal Bars are the perfect solution. They are moist, flavorful, and can easily fit into any dietary preference.

The Upside of Baked Oatmeal Bars

Baked Oatmeal Bars offer numerous benefits that make them a favorite among health-conscious foodies. Here are just a few reasons why you should consider adding these bars to your weekly meal prep:

– **Versatile and Customizable**: You can add your favorite mix-ins, such as chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits. The possibilities are endless!
– **Easy to Make**: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch of these delightful bars in no time.
– **Healthy Ingredients**: Made primarily from rolled oats and bananas, these bars are a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
– **Kid-Friendly**: They are perfect for little hands and can be an excellent way to sneak in some healthy ingredients without kids even noticing.

Ingredient Notes

To create the perfect Baked Oatmeal Bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups rolled oats: Use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture.
• 1 1/3 cup mashed banana: This acts as a natural sweetener and binder. If you’re looking for a banana-free option, consider trying baked oats instead.
• 6 tbsp water: Helps to hydrate the oats and create a fluffy texture.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
• 3 tbsp pure maple syrup, agave, or honey: Choose your preferred sweetener for added flavor. If you’re looking for a lower-calorie option, you can use stevia equivalent.
• 3 tbsp oil, nut butter, or additional water: This adds richness and moisture to the bars. Use your favorite nut butter for an extra nutty flavor.
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor of the bars.
• Optional mix-ins: Consider adding a handful of chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruits for extra flavor and texture.

Setup & Equipment

Before you start baking, make sure you have the following equipment ready:

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl for combining all the ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate measurements of the ingredients.
• Fork or potato masher: To mash the bananas smoothly.
• Baking dish: An 8×8 inch or 9×9 inch baking dish works perfectly for this recipe.
• Spatula: For spreading the mixture evenly in the baking dish.

Mastering Baked Oatmeal Bars: How-To

Follow these simple steps to create your very own Baked Oatmeal Bars:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bars bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Grease your baking dish lightly with oil or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Mash the Bananas

In a large mixing bowl, use a fork or potato masher to mash the bananas until they are smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Mix Ingredients

Add the rolled oats, water, salt, maple syrup (or alternative sweetener), oil (or nut butter), and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.

Step 5: Add Mix-Ins

If you’re using any optional mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts, fold them into the mixture at this stage.

Step 6: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly.

Step 7: Bake

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set.

Step 8: Cool and Slice

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Then, slice into bars and enjoy warm or at room temperature!

Quick Replacement Ideas

Need to make some adjustments? Here are some quick replacement ideas for your Baked Oatmeal Bars:

• For mashed banana: Use unsweetened applesauce or pumpkin puree for a different flavor.
• For sweeteners: Substitute with coconut sugar or brown sugar if desired.
• For oil: Use unsweetened applesauce for oil-free bars.
• For vanilla extract: Almond extract can be a delightful alternative.

Testing Timeline

The preparation and cooking process for Baked Oatmeal Bars is straightforward. Here’s a quick timeline:

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Baking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Cooling Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 50 minutes

Make Ahead Like a Pro

Baked Oatmeal Bars are perfect for meal prepping. Here are some tips to make ahead like a pro:

• Prepare the mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, just transfer it to the baking dish and pop it in the oven.
• Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely before slicing and storing them in an airtight container. They will last for about a week in the refrigerator.
• For longer storage, freeze the bars individually wrapped in plastic wrap or in a freezer-safe container. They can be thawed and enjoyed anytime!

Common Questions

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

While you can use quick oats, the texture of the bars may be different. Rolled oats provide a chewier texture, making them ideal for baked oatmeal bars.

Can I make these bars vegan?

Yes! Simply use a plant-based sweetener like maple syrup or agave, and opt for a nut butter instead of oil, if desired. These adjustments will keep your Baked Oatmeal Bars completely plant-based.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The bars are done when the edges are golden brown, and the center is set and no longer jiggles. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Can I add protein powder to the recipe?

Absolutely! You can add a scoop of your favorite protein powder to the mixture for an extra protein boost. Just be sure to adjust the wet ingredients slightly to accommodate for the added dry ingredients.

If you enjoyed these Baked Oatmeal Bars, you might want to try some of our other favorite recipes:

The Last Word

Baked Oatmeal Bars are a delightful way to start your day or enjoy as a snack. Their versatility allows you to experiment with flavors and ingredients, making them a staple in your kitchen. From busy mornings to afternoon cravings, these bars are the answer to your healthy snack needs.

So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the wholesome goodness of Baked Oatmeal Bars! You’ll find them to be not only easy to make but also a hit with everyone in your home. Happy baking!