These Nutty Oat and Fruit Bars are a delicious, wholesome treat made with oatmeal, mixed nuts, bananas, and dried fruits. Topped with a layer of sugar-free chocolate and garnished with dried raspberries, they make for a nutritious snack or dessert that’s both satisfying and naturally sweetened.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Bake Time: 30-35 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Servings: 10-12 bars
Ingredients
- For the Bars:
- Oatmeal: 80g (2.8 oz)
- Raisins: 100g (3.5 oz), soaked in cold water for 15 minutes
- Plums (prunes): 120g (4.2 oz), soaked in cold water for 15 minutes
- Peanuts: 30g (1 oz), chopped
- Walnuts: 30g (1 oz), chopped
- Cashews: 40g (1.4 oz), chopped
- Bananas: 2, pureed
- For the Chocolate Topping:
- Sugar-Free Chocolate: 150g (5.3 oz)
- Coconut Oil: 2 teaspoons
- Dried Raspberries: For garnish
Directions
- Prepare the Fruit and Nut Mixture:
- After soaking, drain the raisins and plums, then chop the plums.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the oatmeal, chopped peanuts, walnuts, cashews, raisins, and chopped plums.
- Prepare Banana Puree and Combine:
- Using a hand blender, puree the bananas until smooth.
- Add the banana puree to the fruit and nut mixture, stirring until evenly combined.
- Form and Bake the Bars:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (360°F).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the mixture evenly, pressing it down to a thickness of about 1 cm.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden and firm.
- Prepare the Chocolate Topping:
- In a heatproof bowl, melt the chocolate and coconut oil over a water bath, stirring until smooth.
- Assemble and Chill:
- Once the baked mixture has cooled slightly, pour the melted chocolate evenly over the top.
- Garnish with dried raspberries and place in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to set.
- Slice and Serve:
- Once chilled, cut into bars or squares and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
- As a Snack: These bars make a perfect on-the-go snack.
- With Yogurt: Serve alongside a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
- With Coffee or Tea: Enjoy as a sweet, wholesome treat with your favorite hot beverage.
- As a Breakfast Option: Pair with fresh fruit for a balanced breakfast.
- With Extra Nuts: Sprinkle extra chopped nuts on top for added crunch.
Cooking Tips
- Soak the Dried Fruits: Soaking the raisins and plums softens them, making them easier to blend into the bars.
- Blend Bananas Well: Ensure the banana puree is smooth for even consistency in the bars.
- Press Firmly Before Baking: Pressing the mixture into the baking sheet helps the bars hold together better.
- Allow to Cool Before Topping with Chocolate: This prevents the chocolate from melting too quickly into the bars.
- Chill Thoroughly: Chilling ensures the chocolate topping sets properly for easy slicing.
Nutritional Benefits
- Oatmeal: High in fiber, supporting heart health and digestion.
- Nuts: Provide healthy fats, protein, and essential minerals.
- Bananas: Add natural sweetness, potassium, and fiber.
- Dried Fruits: Rich in antioxidants and add natural sugars.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-Friendly
- Gluten-Free Option: Use certified gluten-free oats if necessary.
- Refined Sugar-Free (using sugar-free chocolate)
Nutritional Facts (Per Bar, Approximate)
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze bars in a single layer, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Thaw before eating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Naturally Sweetened: Made with fruits and no added sugars.
- Nutrient-Rich: Filled with wholesome ingredients like oats, nuts, and bananas.
- Simple and Quick: Easy to make with minimal prep.
- Flexible Snack: Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
- Great Texture: Soft bars with a delightful crunch from nuts.
Conclusion
These Nutty Oat and Fruit Bars with Chocolate Topping are a tasty, wholesome way to satisfy your sweet cravings while packing in nutrients. Simple to make and versatile, they’re perfect for snacking or enjoying as a dessert. The mix of fruit, nuts, and chocolate creates a delicious balance of flavors and textures. Enjoy this nutritious treat as a healthier option anytime!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other nuts?
Yes, feel free to substitute with almonds, hazelnuts, or pecans. - Can I skip the chocolate topping?
Absolutely! The bars are delicious on their own if you prefer to omit the chocolate. - Can I add spices?
A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg would add warmth and extra flavor. - Can I use a different dried fruit?
Yes, dried apricots, figs, or dates would work well in this recipe. - How do I prevent the bars from crumbling?
Make sure to press the mixture firmly before baking and allow the bars to cool fully before cutting.