Description
These vegan and gluten-free oat breakfast bars are a delicious and healthy way to start your day. Packed with rolled oats, almond butter, chia seeds, dried fruits, and nuts, they provide a perfect balance of protein, fiber, and natural sweetness. Easy to make and perfect for on-the-go breakfasts or snacks, these bars are baked to golden perfection and come together in just 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup chia seeds
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup nuts (walnuts or almonds)
- 1/2 cup dried fruit (raisins or cranberries)
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup almond butter
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it is ready for baking the bars evenly.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine 2 cups rolled oats, 1/2 cup chia seeds, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 cup nuts. Stir well to distribute everything evenly.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix together 1 cup almond butter, 1/2 cup maple syrup, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with dry ingredients. Stir thoroughly until all components are fully incorporated and form a thick batter-like consistency.
- Add Dried Fruit: Fold in 1/2 cup dried fruit like raisins or cranberries, mixing well to evenly distribute.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a baking dish and spread the oat mixture evenly across the surface, pressing down gently for a firm and compact layer.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and the bars are set.
- Cool and Cut: Remove the baked mixture from the oven and allow it to cool completely before cutting into 12 bars to prevent crumbling.
Notes
- Use rolled oats, not instant oats, for a better texture.
- Substitute maple syrup with agave nectar or honey if not strictly vegan.
- Chilling the bars after baking can help them hold together better.
- Store bars in an airtight container for up to one week or freeze for longer storage.
- Feel free to switch nuts and dried fruits based on preference or allergies.
