Healthy Oatmeal Breakfast Bars are a delightful way to start your day off right. A few months ago, I stumbled upon this recipe while looking for quick breakfast ideas that didn’t compromise on nutrition. As I’ve made them repeatedly, I can confidently say these bars are perfect for busy mornings or as an afternoon snack. With their wholesome ingredients and easy preparation, they became an instant favorite in my household.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a recipe that checks all the boxes: healthy, simple, and delicious! These Healthy Oatmeal Breakfast Bars are not just a sweet treat; they are a nutritious powerhouse that can fit into any lifestyle. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, hosting a family brunch, or simply craving something wholesome to kickstart your day, these bars are a fantastic option. They’re budget-friendly, allowing you to whip up a batch without breaking the bank, and a great way to sneak some fruits and nuts into your morning diet.
"I love these bars for hectic mornings! They’re easy to grab before heading out the door, and my kids love them too!" – A happy home-cook
Step-by-Step Overview
Making Healthy Oatmeal Breakfast Bars is a breeze! Start by gathering your ingredients, then mix everything in a bowl. After that, pour the mixture into a baking dish, bake it to perfection, and voila—you’ll have delicious bars ready in no time! Here’s how it flows:
- Preheat the oven and prepare your baking dish.
- Mix wet ingredients with dry ones.
- Bake until golden brown.
- Cool and cut into squares.
Gather These Items
Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious breakfast bars:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of choice)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 1/2 cup dried fruit (optional)
Feel free to substitute honey with maple syrup for a vegan option, or switch up the milk for any plant-based or regular dairy milk you have on hand.
Directions to Follow
Now, let’s get started with the easy instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats with honey or maple syrup, unsweetened applesauce, almond milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until the ingredients are smooth and well combined.
- Sprinkle in the baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Stir everything together until everything is incorporated. If you’re adding nuts or dried fruit, fold them in gently.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, allow the bars to cool in the pan before cutting into squares. Enjoy!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
These bars are incredibly versatile! Serve them warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt and fresh fruit on the side for a delicious breakfast. They also pair great with a cup of coffee or a smoothie. For a more indulgent treat, consider drizzling a little extra honey or almond butter on top before serving!
Storage and Reheating Tips
To keep your Healthy Oatmeal Breakfast Bars fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, they can be refrigerated for about two weeks. Simply reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy warm again!
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Measure Accurately: Proper measurements ensure the best texture and flavor.
- Mix Well: Be sure to combine the wet and dry ingredients thoroughly to prevent clumping.
- Monitor Baking: Oven temperatures can vary. Start checking for doneness a few minutes early to avoid overbaking.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to switch things up! You can add chocolate chips for a decadent touch, swap out nuts for seeds like pumpkin or sunflower for a nut-free option, or even mix in spices like nutmeg for a different flavor profile. Want to make it gluten-free? Just use certified gluten-free oats!
Your Questions Answered
How long does it take to prep and bake these bars?
Total prep and baking time is around 40 minutes, making them a quick breakfast option.
Can I freeze the bars?
Absolutely! These bars freeze well. Just wrap them individually and store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months.
What can I substitute for applesauce?
You can replace applesauce with mashed bananas or pumpkin puree for an equally moist result.
Healthy Oatmeal Breakfast Bars
A nutritious powerhouse, these Healthy Oatmeal Breakfast Bars are perfect for busy mornings or as a delicious afternoon snack.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Total Time: 40
- Yield: 16 squares 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of choice)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 1/2 cup dried fruit (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats with honey or maple syrup, unsweetened applesauce, almond milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until the ingredients are smooth and well combined.
- Sprinkle in the baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Stir everything together until incorporated. If adding nuts or dried fruit, fold them in gently.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bars to cool in the pan before cutting into squares. Enjoy!
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for about two weeks. They can be reheated in the microwave for a few seconds.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg