Oat and Almond Bars with Chia Jam

These Oat and Almond Bars with Chia Jam are a delicious and healthy snack option. Made with wholesome ingredients like oat flakes, almond flour, and a touch of natural sweetness from Jerusalem artichoke syrup, these bars are both nutritious and satisfying. The chia jam, made with your favorite berries, adds a burst of flavor and a dose of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or a healthy dessert, these bars are easy to make and sure to be a hit with everyone.

Ingredients:

For the Bars:

  • 120 g oat flakes
  • 60 g oatmeal flour
  • 80 g almond flour (you can grind almond kernels in a coffee grinder)
  • 55 g applesauce (or banana, pumpkin, or 1 egg)
  • 50 g Jerusalem artichoke syrup
  • 40 g milk (or plant milk or water)
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

For the Chia Jam:

  • 250 g berries (e.g., thawed cherries)
  • 40-60 g Jerusalem artichoke syrup (adjust to taste)
  • 20 g chia seeds

Preparation Time:

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Chia Jam:
    • In a small saucepan, combine the berries and Jerusalem artichoke syrup.
    • Cook over medium heat until the berries break down and the mixture becomes slightly thickened.
    • Stir in the chia seeds and let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to thicken further.
  2. Prepare the Bars:
    • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
    • In a large bowl, combine the oat flakes, oatmeal flour, and almond flour.
    • Add the applesauce (or banana, pumpkin, or egg), Jerusalem artichoke syrup, and milk (or plant milk or water).
    • Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
    • Stir in the baking soda.
  3. Assemble and Bake:
    • Spread half of the bar mixture evenly in a baking dish lined with parchment paper.
    • Spread the chia jam over the bar mixture.
    • Cover the jam with the remaining bar mixture, spreading it evenly.
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
  4. Cool and Serve:
    • Allow the bars to cool completely in the baking dish before cutting into squares.
    • Enjoy your delicious and healthy Oat and Almond Bars with Chia Jam!

Serving Suggestions:

  • Enjoy these bars as a quick breakfast with a cup of coffee or tea.
  • Pack them as a snack for work or school.
  • Serve them as a healthy dessert option.

Cooking Tips:

  • Make sure to let the chia jam sit and thicken before spreading it on the bars.
  • Adjust the sweetness of the chia jam according to your taste by adding more or less Jerusalem artichoke syrup.
  • Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Oats: Rich in fiber, which aids digestion and helps keep you full longer.
  • Almonds: Provide healthy fats, protein, and vitamin E.
  • Chia Seeds: High in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants.
  • Jerusalem Artichoke Syrup: A natural sweetener with prebiotic properties.

Dietary Information:

  • These bars are gluten-free if using certified gluten-free oats.
  • They can be made dairy-free by using plant milk.
  • They are high in fiber and contain healthy fats and protein, making them a balanced snack option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Healthy: Packed with nutritious ingredients that offer a range of health benefits.
  • Delicious: The combination of the chewy bars and fruity chia jam is irresistible.
  • Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make this recipe accessible to everyone.
  • Versatile: Enjoy these bars at any time of the day, whether for breakfast, a snack, or dessert.

Conclusion:

These Oat and Almond Bars with Chia Jam are a fantastic addition to your healthy snack repertoire. With their rich nutritional profile and delightful flavor, they offer a wholesome and satisfying option for any time of day. Easy to prepare and packed with benefits, they are sure to become a favorite. Definitely try it out – it’s very easy and useful! Enjoy!