These Zucchini Oatmeal Bars are a healthy and delicious treat that’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even a light dessert. Packed with rolled oats, grated zucchini, and a touch of sweetness from honey or maple syrup, these bars are moist, chewy, and full of flavor. They’re also easy to make and customizable with your favorite add-ins like chocolate chips, raisins, or chopped nuts. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast option or a nutritious snack, these bars are a great choice!
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Servings: 9-12 bars
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 1 medium zucchini, grated (about 1 cup)
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional: walnuts or pecans)
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips or raisins (optional)
Instructions:
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Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
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Prepare the Zucchini:
- Grate the zucchini using a box grater or food processor. Once grated, squeeze out any excess moisture by pressing the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or using your hands.
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Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, honey (or maple syrup), egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
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Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, mix together the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
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Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until everything is well combined.
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Add Zucchini and Optional Add-ins:
- Fold in the grated zucchini, and if desired, the chopped nuts and chocolate chips or raisins.
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Pour into Baking Dish:
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
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Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Cool and Serve:
- Allow the bars to cool slightly before slicing into squares or rectangles. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 120-150
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 8g
The Origins and Popularity of Zucchini in Baking:
Zucchini is a versatile vegetable often used in baking due to its mild flavor and ability to add moisture without overpowering the dish. It’s commonly used in recipes like zucchini bread and zucchini muffins but is equally at home in bars like this one. Adding zucchini to baked goods provides a healthy way to sneak in extra fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a popular choice in healthy baking. This recipe is part of the growing trend of incorporating vegetables into sweet treats, helping to make them more nutritious while still satisfying your sweet tooth.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
These Zucchini Oatmeal Bars are the perfect balance of healthy and tasty. The zucchini adds moisture and nutrients, while the oats give the bars a hearty, satisfying texture. The honey or maple syrup adds just the right amount of sweetness without being overly sugary. Plus, they’re easy to make, versatile, and great for meal prep!
Health Benefits of Zucchini Oatmeal Bars:
- Zucchini is a low-calorie vegetable that’s packed with vitamins A and C, which are great for your immune system and skin.
- Oats are a fantastic source of fiber and complex carbohydrates, which help keep you full longer and support digestion.
- Nuts (if added) provide healthy fats, protein, and vitamin E, which promote heart health.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair these Zucchini Oatmeal Bars with a cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of plant-based milk for a satisfying breakfast or snack.
- Serve with a dollop of yogurt for a creamy contrast or drizzle with extra maple syrup for added sweetness.
- They also make a great addition to a picnic or lunchbox for a wholesome and portable snack.
Tips:
- Moisture Control: Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the zucchini before adding it to the mixture to prevent the bars from becoming too soggy.
- Customize the Add-ins: Feel free to mix in dried fruits, seeds, or shredded coconut for extra flavor and texture.
- Make it Dairy-Free: Use plant-based milk and skip the dairy for a completely dairy-free version of this recipe.
Variations to Try:
- Banana Zucchini Oatmeal Bars: Add mashed banana to the mixture for added sweetness and flavor.
- Spicy Zucchini Oatmeal Bars: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for a warm, spiced version.
- Vegan Zucchini Oatmeal Bars: Substitute the egg with flaxseed meal mixed with water for an egg-free option.
Conclusion:
These Zucchini Oatmeal Bars are a wonderful combination of moist, hearty, and flavorful ingredients. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, as a mid-day snack, or as a light dessert, they are a delicious and nutritious choice. With the addition of zucchini, these bars offer a unique way to incorporate vegetables into your diet while indulging in a satisfying treat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
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Can I freeze these oatmeal bars?
Yes, these bars freeze well. Store them in an airtight container and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in the microwave or at room temperature. -
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, you can substitute quick oats for rolled oats, but the texture may be slightly different. Rolled oats give the bars a chewier texture. -
Can I make this recipe without the egg?
Yes, you can use flax eggs or applesauce as an egg substitute for a vegan version.
Enjoy your Zucchini Oatmeal Bars!