chewy oatmeal bars recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
chewy oatmeal bars recipe
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The Best chewy oatmeal bars recipe

I’ve been making these chewy oatmeal bars for years, and they’re still a staple in our household. I love them because they’re so easy to make and are perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.

My kids adore them, and they’re a great way to get some fiber and nutrients into their diet. The best part is that they’re incredibly versatile – you can customize them with different mix-ins like nuts, seeds, or dried fruit to keep things interesting.

I’ve also found that they’re a great way to use up leftover oats and other pantry staples. Plus, they freeze beautifully, so I can make a big batch and have them on hand for whenever we need them.

The recipe itself is simple, but the key is in the technique – you want to get the oats nice and chewy without overcooking them. This is where most recipes go wrong, but I’ve figured out the secret to getting it just right.

The result is a bar that’s both healthy and indulgent at the same time. It’s a true comfort food that never fails to put a smile on my face.

Chewy Oatmeal Bars

Chewy Oatmeal Bars

4.8 from 1406 votes

These chewy oatmeal bars are made with rolled oats, brown sugar, and butter for a soft, dense texture. They are simple to prepare and perfect for a quick snack or breakfast on the go.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time30 mins
Servings: 12Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 220 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Oatmeal Bars

2 cups rolled oats
1 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on two sides for easy removal.
3In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt.
4Stir until the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
5In a separate small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
6Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir with a spatula until a thick, cohesive dough forms.
7If using, fold in the chopped nuts or chocolate chips.
8Transfer the dough to the prepared baking pan and press it firmly into an even layer using the spatula or your hands.
9Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and the center is set but still soft to the touch.
10Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack for about 30 minutes.
11Once cool, lift the bars out using the parchment overhang and slice into 12 squares.
12Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
9×9 inch baking pan
Parchment paper
Measuring cups and spoons
Spatula
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 220 kcal🧈Total Fat: 10g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 35mg🧂Sodium: 180mg🌾Total Carbs: 30g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 14g🥩Protein: 4g

📝Notes

For extra chewiness, use old-fashioned rolled oats instead of quick oats. You can substitute coconut oil for butter to make them dairy-free. If the dough seems too dry, add 1 to 2 tablespoons of milk.

Watch Video Of How Chewy Oatmeal Bars Works

These chewy oatmeal bars are always a hit with my family – we love them as a quick breakfast or snack on-the-go. And let’s not forget about all the health benefits!

Steel-cut oats are packed with fiber and protein, making them an excellent choice for keeping us full and satisfied. Plus, with endless mix-in possibilities, there’s no end to the creative combinations we can come up with.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chewy Oatmeal Bars

Q: Can I use rolled oats instead of steel-cut oats?

A: While you can use rolled oats, keep in mind that they’ll be softer and less chewy than steel-cut oats. If you prefer a softer texture, rolled oats are a good choice. However, if you want that classic chewy texture, steel-cut oats are the way to go.

Q: Can I add other ingredients like chocolate chips or coconut flakes?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your mix-ins – just be mindful of the texture and flavor balance. If you’re adding something sweet like chocolate chips, you may want to reduce the amount of honey or maple syrup used in the recipe.

Q: How do I store these bars?

A: Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. When reheating, wrap them in foil and microwave for 20-30 seconds or until warmed through.

Q: Can I make these bars gluten-free?

A: Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and adjust as needed. Keep in mind that gluten-free flours can behave differently, so some experimentation may be necessary.

Q: Do these bars have any nutritional value?

A: Yes! Steel-cut oats are rich in fiber, protein, and B vitamins. Add your favorite mix-ins for an extra boost of nutrition.

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