Start your day on a sweet note with our delightful Maple-Brown Sugar Oatmeal Breakfast Bars. These wholesome bars are packed with nutritious ingredients like rolled oats, maple syrup, and coconut oil, making them the perfect grab-and-go breakfast or mid-morning snack. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or as a quick bite on the run, these bars are sure to satisfy your cravings and keep you energized throughout the day. Join us as we dive into the recipe, along with some handy tips, variations, and keto-friendly alternatives.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup dark brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a baking dish with parchment paper.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the milk, dark brown sugar, pure maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and egg. Mix until well combined.
- Add the Dry Ingredients:
- Stir in the rolled oats, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Transfer to Baking Dish:
- Pour the oat mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula or spoon.
- Bake the Bars:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
- Cool and Cut:
- Allow the bars to cool in the baking dish for at least 10 minutes before slicing into squares or rectangles.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once cooled, serve the Maple-Brown Sugar Oatmeal Breakfast Bars on their own or with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey, if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Nutty Additions: Add chopped nuts such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts for extra crunch and protein.
- Fruit Swirl: Swirl in some fruit preserves or fresh berries into the oat mixture before baking for a burst of fruity flavor.
- Chocolate Indulgence: Sprinkle chocolate chips or chunks over the top of the oat mixture before baking for a decadent twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned rolled oats? A: While quick oats may work in a pinch, old-fashioned rolled oats provide the best texture and flavor for these breakfast bars. Quick oats tend to absorb more moisture and can result in a denser texture.
Q: Can I make these bars ahead of time? A: Yes, you can make a batch of these breakfast bars ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. Alternatively, you can freeze the bars for longer storage and simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Q: Are these bars suitable for a vegan diet? A: You can easily adapt this recipe to suit a vegan diet by using a plant-based milk alternative such as almond milk or soy milk, and substituting the egg with a flaxseed or chia seed “egg” (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes to thicken).
Q: Can I make a keto-friendly version of these bars? A: Yes, you can make a keto-friendly version of these bars by using almond flour or coconut flour in place of the rolled oats, and replacing the brown sugar and maple syrup with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia.
Q: Can I customize the flavor of these bars? A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different flavorings such as vanilla extract, almond extract, or nutmeg to customize the taste of these bars to your liking.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here’s how you can adapt this recipe:
- Keto Version: Substitute the rolled oats with almond flour or coconut flour for a lower-carb option. Use a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia in place of the dark brown sugar and maple syrup, and replace the milk with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk.
- Low-Carb Version: Follow the keto version adjustments above, and consider adding chopped nuts or sugar-free chocolate chips for added flavor and texture.
With our Maple-Brown Sugar Oatmeal Breakfast Bars, you can enjoy a delicious and nutritious breakfast on the go without sacrificing flavor or convenience. Packed with wholesome ingredients and bursting with sweet maple and cinnamon flavors, these bars are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re rushing out the door in the morning or enjoying a leisurely brunch at home, these bars are the perfect way to start your day off right. So why wait? Whip up a batch today and treat yourself to a delightful morning indulgence!
