Baked Oatmeal Bars Fruit Nuts

Baked oatmeal bars are my not-so-secret weapon for busy mornings and healthy snacking. You get all the toasty comfort of a bowl of oats in a super portable, mess-free package. When I started making these, I loved that both my kids and my husband would actually request them over store-bought granola bars. Best of all, you get to choose exactly what goodies to tuck inside.

I first whipped up a batch during finals week in college when I needed breakfasts I could truly eat with one hand. That little win made homemade bars a weekly habit for me ever since.

Ingredients

• Old-fashioned rolled oats: for hearty chew and slow-burning energy
• Chopped nuts like almonds walnuts or pecans: give protein crunch and richness Just make sure they are fresh and not rancid for best flavor
• Dried fruit like raisins cranberries or apricots: adds tart sweetness Check that fruit is plump and not too hard for best texture
• Unsweetened shredded coconut: is optional but brings extra flavor and chewiness Choose one with no added sugar
• Ground cinnamon: for warmth and cozy aroma Freshly opened spices work best
• Salt: to balance sweetness and boost all the other flavors Use fine sea salt for even seasoning
• Baking powder: gives the bars lightness and helps them hold together
• Eggs: for binding and a boost of protein
• Pure maple syrup or honey: is your natural sweetener If choosing honey opt for raw local honey for the most flavor and health benefits
• Milk either dairy or non-dairy: for moisture and tenderness Use full-fat versions for richer taste
• Melted coconut oil or unsalted butter: ensures moist bars and that just-baked aroma Make sure to use good quality oils or butter for clean flavor
• Pure vanilla extract: to tie all the flavors together Real vanilla is worth it over imitation for best results

Instructions

Prep the pan:

Line an eight by eight inch baking pan with parchment paper making sure the sides hang over for easy removal and prevent sticking

Mix the dry ingredients:

In a large bowl combine oats nuts dried fruit coconut cinnamon salt and baking powder Stir until everything is evenly mixed and the fruit and nuts are distributed

Combine the wet ingredients:

In a separate bowl whisk together eggs maple syrup or honey milk melted coconut oil or butter and vanilla extract Continue whisking until smooth and fully combined

Bring it all together:

Pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients and use a spatula to combine Stir until you no longer see dry patches but avoid overmixing so your bars stay tender

Shape and press:

Scoop the mixture into the prepared pan and use a spatula or even slightly damp hands to press down firmly Make sure to spread it evenly into all corners and edges for consistent baking

Bake the bars:

Place in a preheated three hundred fifty degree Fahrenheit oven and bake for twenty five to thirty minutes Check that the top is golden and feels firm to the touch which means it is perfectly set

Cool and slice:

Let the pan cool completely on a wire rack before attempting to lift out by the paper and cut into bars Waiting ensures clean slices and bars that hold together

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My absolute favorite part is the flexibility you get with add-ins. I remember one rainy weekend letting my kids each pick a nut and a fruit for their own “signature” batch and they were so proud to pack their creations for snack at school. Watching hands reach for these bars over prepackaged snacks always feels like a win.

Storage Tips

Baked oatmeal bars keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days I line the bottom with a paper towel to absorb any stray moisture If you want to enjoy them longer just freeze individual bars in parchment and toss in a freezer bag I like stashing a few in the freezer for surprise busy mornings

Ingredient Substitutions

No coconut oil on hand Swap in unsalted butter or use a runny nut butter for richer texture and extra flavor You can use any nuts or skip them for a nut free version Seeds like pumpkin or sunflower are awesome for allergy safe bars Mix up the dried fruit but make sure to chop large pieces small so the bars slice neatly

Serving Suggestions

These are delicious unadorned but I love drizzling a warm bar with a spoonful of almond butter for breakfast Or serve with Greek yogurt and fresh berries for a more filling meal For a quick after school treat my kids love them studded with a handful of chocolate chips

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The depth of flavor and chewy texture make these bars irresistible for all ages. Bake up a batch and let everyone make it their own with favorite mix-ins for breakfasts and snacks that make mornings run smoothly.