Tired of rushed mornings and unhealthy breakfast choices? Meet your new best friend: Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Bars. These bars are quick to grab, packed with wholesome ingredients, and bursting with flavor. They’re the perfect solution for busy families and anyone seeking a nutritious and delicious start to their day. As a parent, I know the struggle of getting a good breakfast on the table before the school bell rings. These bars have been an absolute game-changer in our household, and I’m excited to share the recipe with you!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
My grandmother, bless her heart, always had a pot of oatmeal simmering on the stove. The aroma alone was enough to make any morning brighter. These Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Bars are my modern take on her classic comfort food. They capture all the warmth and goodness of her oatmeal, but in a convenient, portable form. Every bite reminds me of Sunday mornings spent in her cozy kitchen, and I hope they bring you a similar sense of comfort and nostalgia.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 3 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup flax seed meal
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/2 cup applesauce (unsweetened)
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil or butter
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Mix-Ins:
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Recipe
- First, preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine all the dry ingredients: rolled oats, nuts, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and flax seed meal. Mix well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: milk, applesauce, melted coconut oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Gently fold in any optional mix-ins such as dried cranberries, chocolate chips, or shredded coconut.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars.
- Serve and enjoy! These Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Bars are perfect for on-the-go snacking!
Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- First, preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine all the dry ingredients: rolled oats, nuts, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and flax seed meal. Mix well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: milk, applesauce, melted coconut oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Gently fold in any optional mix-ins such as dried cranberries, chocolate chips, or shredded coconut.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars.
- Serve and enjoy! These Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Bars are perfect for on-the-go snacking!
Notes
Expert Tips for Best Results
For the best Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Bars, don’t skimp on the quality of your oats! Rolled oats (also called old-fashioned oats) provide the best texture. Quick oats will work in a pinch, but the bars will be a little softer. Make sure your baking powder is fresh for the best rise. Feel free to get creative with your mix-ins! Other great options include blueberries, chopped apples, or a sprinkle of chia seeds. If you like a sweeter bar, add a tablespoon or two of maple syrup to the wet ingredients. To prevent fruit from sinking to the bottom, toss it with a tablespoon of flour before adding it to the batter. Finally, store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. They also freeze well for longer storage and are perfect for meal prepping those busy weeks ahead.
Serving Suggestions
While these Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Bars are fantastic on their own, there are numerous ways to enhance the serving experience. Heat them briefly in the microwave for a warm and comforting treat. Spread a thin layer of peanut butter or almond butter for added protein and flavor. Pair them with a side of fresh fruit and yogurt for a complete and balanced breakfast. Crumble the bars over a bowl of ice cream for a healthier dessert alternative. Pack them in lunchboxes for a school snack or a midday pick-me-up. If you’re feeling fancy, drizzle them with a little melted dark chocolate. A sprinkle of sea salt can also elevate the flavor profile. Consider adding a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream when serving to adults as a special occasion treat.
Conclusion
Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Bars represent a delicious blend of convenience, health, and flavor. Their ability to transform a simple oatmeal recipe into an accessible and nutritious breakfast option is truly remarkable. Beyond being just a meal, these bars encapsulate a sense of warmth and nostalgia, resonating with a personal connection to cherished memories and family traditions. Whether rushing to work, preparing a child’s lunchbox, or simply seeking a guilt-free treat, these bars rise to the occasion, catering to diverse needs with grace and taste. They embody the essence of mindful eating without sacrificing indulgence and offer a heartwarming reminder that healthy choices can indeed be both satisfying and delectable. So, embrace this convenient recipe, tweak it to your preferences, and enjoy the goodness and delight that **Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Bars** offers.