Welcome to the delightful world of homemade oat bars! These Oat Bars with Dark Chocolate and Dried Fruits are a perfect blend of health and indulgence. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious breakfast, a satisfying snack, or a light dessert, these bars offer a delicious solution. Packed with rolled oats, raisins, walnuts, dried apricots, and topped with a rich layer of dark chocolate, they provide a satisfying crunch and a burst of natural sweetness. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make and customizable to fit your taste preferences.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- 1 cup (80g) rolled oats: The base of our bars, providing fiber and a hearty texture.
- 3/4 cup (100g) raisins: Adds natural sweetness and chewiness.
- 3/4 cup (80g) walnuts, roughly chopped: For a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
- 100g (3.5 oz) dried apricots, chopped: Brings a sweet and slightly tangy flavor.
- 1 medium ripe banana, mashed: Acts as a natural sweetener and binder.
- 100g (3.5 oz) dark chocolate (without added sugar), chopped: For a rich, indulgent topping.
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil (or oil of your choice): Used to melt the chocolate and add a touch of smoothness.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 180°C (360°F). Prepare a baking dish or tray by lining it with parchment paper. This ensures that the bars won’t stick and makes it easier to lift them out of the pan once baked.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix together the rolled oats, raisins, chopped walnuts, and dried apricots. This dry mix forms the base of your bars.
- Add Banana: Stir in the mashed banana. The banana acts as a natural sweetener and helps bind the mixture together. Mix until the ingredients are well combined and the mixture starts to stick together.
Step 3: Form the Bars
- Press Mixture: Transfer the oat mixture into the prepared baking dish. Press it down firmly and evenly with the back of a spoon or your hands. This step is crucial for ensuring the bars hold together once baked.
Step 4: Bake the Bars
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes. You’ll know the bars are ready when the edges start turning golden brown. This provides a nice texture and flavor contrast.
Step 5: Prepare the Chocolate Topping
- Melt Chocolate: While the bars are baking, melt the dark chocolate with the coconut oil. You can do this in the microwave in short 20-second bursts, stirring in between, or use a double boiler on the stove. Stir until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
Step 6: Add Chocolate Layer
- Top with Chocolate: Once the bars are baked and still warm, pour the melted chocolate over the top. Use a spatula to spread the chocolate evenly, covering the entire surface.
Step 7: Chill and Cut
- Cool and Set: Allow the chocolate to set at room temperature. For best results, place the bars in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes. This will firm up the chocolate and make the bars easier to cut.
- Cut into Bars: Once chilled and firm, lift the bars out of the dish using the parchment paper. Cut into desired sizes and shapes. The bars can be cut into squares, rectangles, or any shape you prefer.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store the oat bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to a week.
- Freezing: For longer storage, these bars freeze well. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap or foil and store them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before eating for the best texture.
Tips for Success
- Banana Ripeness: Use ripe bananas for the best natural sweetness and binding. Overripe bananas work particularly well.
- Customization: Feel free to swap out walnuts and dried apricots for your favorite nuts and dried fruits. Almonds, pecans, cranberries, or coconut flakes can add unique flavors and textures.
- Texture Variations: Toasting the oats and nuts before mixing can enhance their flavors and add a crunchy texture to your bars.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different type of nut or dried fruit?
- Yes, absolutely! You can customize these bars with nuts like almonds or pecans, and dried fruits like cranberries, cherries, or dates. Adjust according to your taste preferences.
- Can I make these bars vegan?
- Yes, to make the bars vegan, use a plant-based chocolate and ensure the coconut oil is used instead of any animal-based products. You can also use a vegan alternative for the binding agent if needed.
- What if I don’t have parchment paper?
- If parchment paper is unavailable, you can lightly grease the baking dish with a small amount of oil. However, parchment paper helps in easy removal and cleaner slicing.
- How can I adjust the sweetness of the bars?
- If you prefer a sweeter bar, you can add a bit of honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar to the mixture. Adjust the amount according to your taste preferences.
- Can I make these bars without the chocolate topping?
- Yes, you can skip the chocolate topping if you prefer a simpler bar. The bars will still be delicious and satisfying without it.
- How do I know when the bars are done baking?
- The bars are done when the edges turn golden brown. If you insert a toothpick into the center, it should come out mostly clean, though a few moist crumbs are okay.
Nutrition Facts (per bar, assuming 12 bars)
- Calories: 200
- Total Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Sodium: 1 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 21 g
- Dietary Fiber: 3 g
- Sugars: 12 g
- Protein: 3 g
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on ingredient brands and specific measurements.
Conclusion
These Homemade Oat Bars with Dark Chocolate and Dried Fruits are a delightful and versatile treat that combines the wholesome goodness of oats, nuts, and fruits with a touch of indulgence from dark chocolate. They are perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a nutritious snack or a light, sweet treat. Whether enjoyed as a quick breakfast, an on-the-go snack, or a satisfying dessert, these bars are sure to please. Enjoy your baking and savor every bite of these homemade delights!