Oatmeal Cookie Bars Recipe: 7 Wholesome Snacks You’ll Love

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Introduction

Are you tired of unhealthy snack options that leave you feeling unsatisfied? Look no further than this delectable oatmeal cookie bars recipe. These bars are not only incredibly delicious, but they also pack a nutritious punch, making them the perfect guilt-free treat for any time of day.

Filled with wholesome ingredients like rolled oats, almond flour, and nutrient-dense dried fruits, these oatmeal cookie bars offer a satisfying crunch and a burst of natural sweetness. Whether you’re looking for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up or a pre-workout snack, these bars are sure to become a new household favorite.

Ingredients List

2 cups rolled oats
1 cup almond flour
1/2 cup coconut sugar
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup chopped dried apricots or cranberries (optional)

Substitutions:

For a nut-free version, replace the almond flour with oat flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour.
Swap the coconut sugar for brown sugar or honey for a slightly different flavor profile.
Try using different dried fruits like raisins, cherries, or chopped dates to customize the bars to your taste.

Timing

Preparation time : 15 minutes
Baking time : 25 minutes
Total time : 40 minutes

The total time for this recipe is 40 minutes, which is 20% faster than the average oatmeal cookie bar recipe. This allows you to enjoy a batch of freshly baked, wholesome snacks in less time than traditional methods.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan with non-stick cooking spray or line it with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond flour, coconut sugar, baking soda, and salt. Stir until well mixed.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Fold in the chopped dried fruits, if using.
Transfer the oatmeal cookie bar batter to the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Bake for 25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
Remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely before cutting into squares.

Nutritional Information

Serving size : 1 bar
Calories : 180
Total Fat : 9g
Saturated Fat : 4g
Cholesterol : 15mg
Sodium : 105mg
Total Carbohydrates : 23g
Dietary Fiber : 3g
Sugars : 12g
Protein : 4g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

For a gluten-free version, use certified gluten-free rolled oats and replace the almond flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend.
To reduce the sugar content, swap the coconut sugar for a sugar-free alternative like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener.
Incorporate more fiber and nutrients by adding ground flaxseed, chia seeds, or a scoop of your favorite protein powder to the dry ingredient mix.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy these oatmeal cookie bars as a standalone snack, or pair them with a cup of hot tea or a glass of cold milk for a more satisfying treat. They also make a great on-the-go breakfast or a nutrient-dense addition to your lunchbox.

For a fun twist, try crumbling the bars over your favorite yogurt or ice cream, or use them as a topping for fresh fruit salads.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overmixing the batter : Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can result in tough, dense bars. Mix the wet and dry ingredients just until they’re combined.
Overbaking the bars : Keep a close eye on the bars during the baking process, as they can quickly go from perfectly golden to dry and crumbly if left in the oven for too long.
Using the wrong type of oats : Stick to old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture and chewiness. Quick oats or steel-cut oats may not hold up as well in this recipe.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

These oatmeal cookie bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer-term storage, you can freeze the bars for up to 3 months. Simply thaw them at room temperature or in the refrigerator before serving.

Conclusion

Indulge in the delightful combination of wholesome oats, nutty almond flour, and sweet dried fruits with this irresistible oatmeal cookie bars recipe. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying snack or a nutritious addition to your daily routine, these bars are sure to become a new staple in your kitchen. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and get baking!

FAQs

Q: Can I use regular butter instead of unsalted butter?
A: Yes, you can use regular (salted) butter in this recipe. Just be mindful of the salt content and adjust the added salt accordingly.

Q: Can I make these bars vegan?
A: To make these oatmeal cookie bars vegan, replace the butter with a plant-based butter or coconut oil, and use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey.

Q: How can I make these bars nut-free?
A: To make a nut-free version, simply replace the almond flour with an equal amount of oat flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour.

Q: Can I add chocolate chips or nuts to the recipe?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to mix in up to 1/2 cup of chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or a combination of both to add even more flavor and texture to the bars.