These Oatmeal and Almond Bars with Berry Chia Filling are a delicious and nutritious treat, perfect for any time of the day. Made with wholesome ingredients like oatmeal, almond flour, coconut oil, and banana, these bars are not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. The berry chia filling adds a burst of fruity flavor and a dose of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. These bars are easy to make and perfect for a healthy snack or dessert.
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Bars:
- 100g (1 cup) oatmeal
- 120-130g (1 cup) almond flour
- 50g (1/4 cup) coconut oil
- 1 banana, mashed
- A pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon stevia (or any sweetener of your choice)
For the Berry Filling:
- 250g (2 cups) frozen berries (e.g., cherries)
- Sweetener of your choice (to taste)
- 3 tablespoons chia seeds
Directions
Prepare the Berry Chia Filling:
- In a small saucepan, combine the frozen berries and your choice of sweetener.
- Cook over medium heat until the berries break down and the mixture thickens slightly.
- Stir in the chia seeds and let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to thicken further.
Prepare the Bar Mixture:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a large bowl, combine the oatmeal and almond flour.
- Melt the coconut oil and add it to the dry ingredients.
- Mash the banana and add it to the mixture along with a pinch of salt and stevia.
- Mix well until all ingredients are combined and a dough forms.
Assemble and Bake:
- Line a baking dish with parchment paper.
- Press half of the bar mixture evenly into the bottom of the baking dish.
- Spread the berry chia filling over the base layer.
- Cover the filling with the remaining bar mixture, pressing it down gently.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Cool and Serve:
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the baking dish before cutting into squares.
- Enjoy your delicious and healthy Oatmeal and Almond Bars with Berry Chia Filling!
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy these bars as a quick breakfast or a healthy snack.
- Serve them with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of honey for added flavor.
- Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful treat.
Cooking Tips
- Make sure to let the chia filling sit and thicken before spreading it on the bars.
- Adjust the sweetness of the filling according to your taste by adding more or less sweetener.
- Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Nutritional Benefits
- Oats: Provide fiber, which aids digestion and helps keep you full longer.
- Almond Flour: High in healthy fats, protein, and vitamin E.
- Chia Seeds: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Coconut Oil: Contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which may support metabolism.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-Free: These bars are gluten-free if using certified gluten-free oats.
- Vegan: They can be made vegan by ensuring the sweetener used is plant-based.
- High Fiber and Healthy Fats: Making them a balanced and nutritious snack.
Nutritional Facts (per 100 grams)
- Calories: 303.54 kcal
- Protein: 8.46 g
- Fat: 21.09 g
- Carbohydrates: 23.28 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Sugar: 10 g
Storage
- Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy: Made with nutrient-dense ingredients that offer a range of health benefits.
- Delicious: The combination of the nutty bars and fruity chia filling is irresistibly tasty.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make this recipe accessible to everyone.
- Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or a healthy dessert.
Conclusion
These Oatmeal and Almond Bars with Berry Chia Filling 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!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use fresh berries instead of frozen?
- Yes, fresh berries can be used. The cooking time might be slightly reduced.
- Can I substitute almond flour with another type of flour?
- Yes, you can use any nut flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
- Is there a substitute for coconut oil?
- You can use melted butter or any plant-based oil like olive or avocado oil.
- Can I use another sweetener instead of stevia?
- Yes, you can use honey, maple syrup, or any sweetener of your choice.
- Can I add nuts or seeds to the bar mixture?
- Absolutely, adding nuts or seeds will enhance the nutritional value and add a nice crunch.
- How long do these bars last in the fridge?
- They last up to a week when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Can I freeze these bars?
- Yes, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Thaw before eating.
- What can I use instead of chia seeds?
- Flaxseeds or hemp seeds can be used as a substitute.
- Can I make these bars without a banana?
- Yes, you can use applesauce or pumpkin puree as a substitute for banana.
- Are these bars suitable for kids?
- Yes, they are a healthy and delicious snack option for kids.