“Wholesome Steel Cut Oatmeal Bars: A Delicious and Nutritious Recipe to Try Today!”
Wholesome Steel Cut Oatmeal Bars: A Delicious and Nutritious Recipe to Try Today!
Introduction
Looking for a wholesome and delicious snack that’s easy to make and packed with nutritious ingredients? Steel cut oatmeal bars might just be the answer. These bars are not only a convenient grab-and-go option for busy mornings but also a satisfying and healthy choice for any time of the day. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this simple and versatile recipe is a must-try.
Ingredients
To make these hearty steel cut oatmeal bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups steel cut oats
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup almond butter or peanut butter
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts)
- 1/4 cup dried fruit (e.g., raisins, cranberries)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Directions
Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of wholesome steel cut oatmeal bars:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×9 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix together the steel cut oats, whole wheat flour, chopped nuts, dried fruit, cinnamon, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey or maple syrup, applesauce, almond butter or peanut butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until everything is evenly coated.
- Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares or bars.
- Enjoy these delicious steel cut oatmeal bars as a snack or quick breakfast option!
FAQ
Q: Can I customize the ingredients in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to tailor the ingredients to your preferences. You can add different types of nuts, seeds, or dried fruits to suit your taste. Additionally, you can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey or maple syrup.
Q: How should I store the oatmeal bars?
Once the bars have cooled completely, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. You can also individually wrap the bars and freeze them for up to three months.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be gluten-free by using certified gluten-free oats and a gluten-free flour blend in place of the whole wheat flour.
Q: Are steel cut oats the same as regular oats?
Steel cut oats are whole oat groats that have been chopped into pieces, whereas regular oats (also known as rolled oats) are steamed and flattened. Steel cut oats have a heartier texture and nuttier flavor compared to regular oats, making them a great choice for oatmeal bars.
Q: Can I add chocolate chips to the bars?
Certainly! If you’d like to add chocolate chips, simply fold them into the oat mixture before pressing it into the baking dish. Keep in mind that the additional sweetness from the chocolate may alter the overall sweetness of the bars.
With this wholesome steel cut oatmeal bar recipe, you can enjoy a nutritious and satisfying snack that’s perfect for on-the-go moments. Experiment with different variations to discover your favorite flavor combinations!
