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Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Bars: A Delightful Start to Your Day

In a world where quick and nourishing breakfasts are essential, baked oatmeal breakfast bars stand out as a fantastic option. They’re not just a delicious way to fuel your morning; they’re also incredibly versatile, easy to prepare, and packed with wholesome ingredients. Let’s delve into what makes these bars a perfect breakfast choice and how you can whip them up in your own kitchen.

What Are Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Bars?

Baked oatmeal breakfast bars are essentially a baked version of traditional oatmeal porridge. They typically combine oats with a blend of ingredients such as milk, eggs, fruits, and sweeteners, resulting in a chewy, satisfying bar that can be enjoyed on the go. With endless possibilities for mix-ins and flavourings, these bars can easily cater to a variety of tastes and dietary preferences.

Why Choose Baked Oatmeal Bars?

1. Nutritious: Packed with fibre, protein, and essential nutrients, baked oatmeal breakfast bars provide a balanced start to your day. Oats are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, aiding in sustained energy release.

2. Convenient: Easy to prepare in advance, you can make a batch over the weekend and grab a bar each morning, saving precious time on busy weekdays.

3. Customisable: You have the freedom to create your own unique flavour combinations. Whether you prefer chocolate chips, dried fruits, nuts, or a hint of spice, the possibilities are endless.

4. Kid-Friendly: These bars are not only nutritious but also appealing to young taste buds. They can be a great way to introduce healthier ingredients to your children’s diet without compromising on taste.

Simple Recipe for Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Bars

Here’s a straightforward recipe to get you started on your own baked oatmeal adventure:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup mashed ripe banana or applesauce
• Optional mix-ins: 1/2 cup chocolate chips, nuts, dried fruit, or shredded coconut

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a square baking dish (approximately 8×8 inches) or line it with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and mashed banana (or applesauce) until well blended.

4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until combined. If you’re adding any mix-ins, now is the time to fold them into the mixture.

5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

6. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the centre comes out clean.

7. Let it cool for a few minutes, then cut into squares or bars. These can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week, making them an ideal choice for meal prep.

Serving Suggestions

These delightful bars can be enjoyed warm or cold, depending on your preference. For an extra treat, try drizzling them with a bit of honey or serving them with a dollop of Greek yoghurt or a sprinkle of fresh berries.

Conclusion

Baked oatmeal breakfast bars are a fantastic addition to any breakfast routine. With their nutritious profile, ease of preparation, and versatility, they’re bound to become a family favourite. So why not give them a try? Your mornings will thank you!

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