Description
These Baked Oatmeal Bars are a healthy, delicious, and easy-to-make breakfast or snack option. Packed with wholesome ingredients like oats, nuts, and fruit, they are a great meal-prep choice for busy mornings or an on-the-go treat. Naturally sweetened and fully customizable, these bars are a nutritious alternative to store-bought granola bars!
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups rolled oats – Base ingredient for structure and fiber
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the bars rise slightly
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon – Adds warmth and flavor
- ¼ teaspoon salt – Enhances overall taste
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy) – Adds moisture
- 2 large eggs – Binds ingredients together
- ⅓ cup honey or maple syrup – Natural sweetener
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances flavor
- ¼ cup melted coconut oil or butter – Adds richness and moisture
Optional Mix-Ins:
- ½ cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans) – For crunch
- ½ cup dried or fresh fruit (blueberries, raisins, apples) – Adds natural sweetness
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
- Mix dry ingredients – In a large bowl, combine oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- Prepare wet ingredients – In another bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla, and melted coconut oil.
- Combine – Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until well mixed. Fold in nuts and fruit if using.
- Bake – Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and set.
- Cool & Slice – Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars.
Notes
- Use Rolled Oats for Best Texture – Quick oats will create a softer bar, while steel-cut oats won’t work in this recipe.
- For Extra Moisture – Add a mashed banana, applesauce, or yogurt to make the bars softer and more tender.
- Sweetness Adjustment – Taste your batter before baking. If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the honey/maple syrup slightly.
- To Make Cutting Easier – Let the bars cool completely before slicing. This helps them hold their shape better.
- Crunchy Topping Option – Sprinkle extra chopped nuts or seeds on top before baking for a crispy texture.
- For a Firmer Bar – Bake for an additional 5 minutes if you prefer a denser, more granola-like texture.
- Dairy-Free Version – Use plant-based milk and coconut oil instead of butter.
- Meal Prep Friendly – Make a batch ahead and freeze individual bars for a grab-and-go snack.
- Prevent Bars from Sticking – Line your baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Serving Ideas – Enjoy as-is, or top with nut butter, yogurt, or fresh fruit for an extra boost of flavor