Easy DIY Oatmeal Breakfast Bars- A Simple Recipe for a Healthy Start to Your Day

How to Make Breakfast Bars with Oats

Oatmeal has always been a popular choice for a healthy and nutritious breakfast, but who says you can’t enjoy the benefits of oats in a convenient, on-the-go form? That’s where breakfast bars with oats come in. These delicious, homemade bars are not only easy to make but also packed with fiber and protein, making them the perfect start to your day. In this article, we’ll guide you through the simple steps to create your own homemade breakfast bars with oats.

Ingredients

To make breakfast bars with oats, you’ll need the following ingredients:

– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
– 1/4 cup peanut butter (optional)
– 1/4 cup ground flaxseed (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup dried fruit (such as raisins, cranberries, or apricots)
– 1/2 cup nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
– 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the honey or maple syrup, peanut butter, ground flaxseed, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Stir in the dried fruit, nuts, and chocolate chips (if using).
6. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
8. Remove the dish from the oven and let the bars cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
9. Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the bars out of the dish and transfer them to a cutting board.
10. Cut the bars into squares or rectangles of your desired size and let them cool completely before serving.

Storage and Tips

These breakfast bars with oats can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks or freeze them for up to a month. To reheat, simply place the bars in the microwave for 10-20 seconds or until warm.

Feel free to customize these breakfast bars with oats by adding your favorite mix-ins, such as chocolate chips, nuts, seeds, or dried fruit. Experiment with different flavors and textures to create a perfect breakfast bar that suits your taste. Enjoy your homemade oatmeal breakfast bars any time you need a quick, healthy snack or meal!