These hearty baked oatmeal bars are packed with the natural sweetness of raisins, dried apricots, and grated apple, combined with the crunch of walnuts. Perfect as a nutritious breakfast or a wholesome snack on the go.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 cup oatmeal (90 g)
- 50 g raisins (⅓ cup)
- 50 g walnuts, chopped (½ cup)
- 50 g dried apricots, chopped (⅓ cup)
- 1 banana, mashed
- 1 apple, grated (medium-sized)
- 50 g oat flakes (½ cup)
Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F).
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the oatmeal, raisins, chopped walnuts, dried apricots, mashed banana, grated apple, and oat flakes.
- Stir until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish
- Grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- Transfer the oatmeal mixture to the dish and spread it out evenly.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the mixture is set.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
- Remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool slightly.
- Cut into squares or bars and serve warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
- Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt and fresh berries for a balanced breakfast.
- Drizzle with honey or maple syrup for added sweetness.
Cooking Tips
- Use ripe bananas for natural sweetness and easier mashing.
- Replace walnuts with pecans or almonds for variety.
- Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
- Oats: High in fiber and good for heart health.
- Walnuts: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants.
- Dried Fruits: Provide natural sugars and are a source of vitamins and minerals.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian
- Dairy-free
- Can be made gluten-free with certified gluten-free oats.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving – Approx. 8 servings):
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 3 g
- Fat: 6 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 3 g
Storage
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make with simple, wholesome ingredients.
- Naturally sweetened with fruits, making it a healthy choice.
- Perfect for meal prep and great for busy mornings.
- Versatile—customize with your favorite nuts and dried fruits.
Conclusion
These Baked Oatmeal Bars with Fruits and Nuts are a delicious and nutritious way to start your day or enjoy a healthy snack. Packed with flavor and texture, they’re easy to prepare and loved by kids and adults alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I substitute fresh fruits for dried ones?
Yes, but reduce the amount of grated apple to avoid excess moisture. - What can I use instead of walnuts?
Pecans, almonds, or sunflower seeds are excellent substitutes. - Can I add chocolate chips?
Yes, add a handful of dark chocolate chips for a sweet treat. - How can I make this recipe vegan?
Replace honey (if using) with maple syrup and ensure all ingredients are plant-based. - What type of apples work best?
Tart apples like Granny Smith balance the sweetness, but any variety works. - Can I make these bars crunchy?
Bake for an additional 5–10 minutes or until the edges are crisp. - Are these bars suitable for kids?
Yes, they’re nutritious and kid-friendly. Avoid nuts if there’s an allergy. - Can I add spices?
Cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice are great options for additional flavor. - Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, but the texture will be softer. - How do I prevent the bars from crumbling?
Ensure the mixture is well-combined and the baking time is adequate.
Enjoy these wholesome bars for a delicious and satisfying start to your day!