These chewy oatmeal bars are a nutritious and satisfying snack, perfect for breakfast or a midday pick-me-up. Made with rolled oats, honey, and your choice of mix-ins, they provide a great balance of fiber and energy.
The recipe is simple and can be customized with ingredients like nuts, dried fruits, or chocolate chips to suit your taste.
Wholesome Ingredients
Chewy oatmeal bars are a delightful way to incorporate nutritious elements into your snacking routine.
These bars are primarily made with rolled oats, which are an excellent source of fiber, providing a hearty base that keeps you feeling full longer.
The addition of honey or maple syrup not only sweetens the bars but also contributes natural energy, making them ideal for a quick breakfast or an afternoon boost.
Customizable Mix-Ins
One of the best aspects of these oatmeal bars is their versatility.
You can easily tailor the recipe to suit your preferences by adding various mix-ins.
Chopped nuts like walnuts, almonds, or pecans add a satisfying crunch, while dried fruits such as raisins, cranberries, or apricots introduce a chewy texture and natural sweetness.
If you’re in the mood for something a bit more indulgent, consider tossing in some chocolate chips.
This simple customization allows you to create a snack that fits your taste perfectly.
Simple Preparation Steps
Preparing these oatmeal bars is a straightforward process that requires minimal time and effort.
Start by preheating your oven and lining a baking pan with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, sweetener, nut butter, and your chosen mix-ins. Stir until everything is well blended.
Once mixed, transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press it down evenly.
Bake until the edges are golden brown, which typically takes around 20-25 minutes.
After baking, allow the bars to cool before cutting them into squares or rectangles.
Perfect for Meal Prep
These chewy oatmeal bars are not only delicious but also practical for meal prepping.
With a yield of about 12 bars, they can easily be made in advance and stored for the week.
Simply place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate them for extended freshness.
This makes them a convenient option for busy individuals or families looking for healthy snacks on the go.
Nutrition Benefits
Each bar is packed with essential nutrients, making them a guilt-free indulgence.
With approximately 150 calories per bar, they provide a balanced mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.
This nutritional profile helps sustain energy levels without the crash associated with sugary snacks.
Serving Suggestions
These oatmeal bars can be enjoyed in various ways.
They make a great snack on their own, but you can also pair them with yogurt or fresh fruit for a more substantial meal.
For a delightful breakfast option, crumble a bar over a bowl of oatmeal or mix it into a smoothie for added texture and flavor.
With their inviting appearance and wholesome ingredients, these chewy oatmeal bars are sure to become a staple in your snack rotation.
Easy Chewy Oatmeal Bars Recipe
These oatmeal bars are packed with wholesome ingredients and take about 30 minutes to prepare and bake. They yield about 12 bars, making them perfect for meal prep or sharing.
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup peanut butter or almond butter
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, almonds, or pecans)
- 1/2 cup dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, or apricots)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, honey, peanut butter, chopped nuts, dried fruits, salt, and cinnamon. Stir until well combined.
- Press into Pan: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan and press it down evenly with a spatula.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Cool and Cut: Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then lift them out using the parchment paper and cut into squares or rectangles.
- Store: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 12 bars
- Calories: 150kcal
- Fat: 6g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 22g