Cozy Baked Oatmeal Bars Recipe: A Tasty Morning Delight

These delectable baked oatmeal bars burst with wholesome goodness that’ll make your morning sparkle.

Mornings can feel complicated, but not when such a simple treat awaits you.

Rolled oats mingle with sweet ingredients, creating a hearty breakfast companion that feels like a warm hug.

Pantry staples transform into something magical with just a few quick steps.

Nutritious and satisfying, these bars promise an energetic start without complicated preparation.

Crisp edges and soft centers invite you to savor each delightful bite.

Breakfast just became something to genuinely anticipate.

Helpful Hints For Baked Oatmeal Bars

• Boost Banana Power: Opt for overripe bananas to enhance natural sweetness and create a more moist texture in your baked oatmeal bars.
• Customize Mix-Ins: Swap chocolate chips with dried cranberries, chopped nuts, or seeds to match your dietary preferences and create unique flavor combinations.
• Perfect Texture Trick: Press the mixture firmly into the baking dish to ensure compact, chewy bars that hold together well when sliced.
• Low-Sugar Swap: Replace maple syrup with honey, stevia, or applesauce to reduce sugar content while maintaining delicious flavor and moisture.
• Meal Prep Magic: Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days or freeze for up to one month for quick breakfast or snack options.

Storing Baked Oatmeal Bars Without Hassle

• Preserve these delicious baked oatmeal bars by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerate the bars for extended freshness, keeping them tasty for up to 5-7 days.
• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap or parchment paper for convenient grab-and-go snacking.
• Freeze the bars for longer storage by placing them in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag, where they'll maintain quality for 2-3 months.
• Thaw frozen bars overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for quick enjoyment.

Best Pairings For Baked Oatmeal Bars

• Pair with Creamy Companions: Complement the warmth of these oatmeal bars with a smooth Greek yogurt topped with a drizzle of honey or a dollop of vanilla bean whipped cream for a luxurious breakfast experience.
• Brew the Perfect Morning Drink: Enhance the cinnamon and chocolate notes with a rich, medium-roast coffee or a chai latte that will bring out the subtle sweetness of the maple syrup and bananas.
• Match with Fresh Fruit Accents: Serve alongside fresh berries like raspberries or sliced strawberries to add a bright, tangy contrast to the dense, hearty oatmeal bars and create a balanced nutritional profile.
• Create a Delightful Afternoon Snack Combo: Pair with a cold glass of almond milk or a light herbal tea like chamomile to soften the bars' texture and provide a refreshing counterpoint to their rich, nutty flavor.

Try These Baked Oatmeal Bars Variations

• Berry Blast Oatmeal Bars: Swap chocolate chips with fresh blueberries and raspberries, creating a vibrant and fruity version that bursts with natural sweetness.
• Nutty Crunch Oatmeal Bars: Incorporate chopped almonds, pecans, and walnuts for an extra protein-packed and crunchy texture that elevates the original recipe.
• Tropical Paradise Bars: Mix in shredded coconut, diced dried mango, and a hint of cardamom for a warm, exotic flavor profile that transports your taste buds.
• Protein Power Bars: Add a scoop of your favorite protein powder and replace nut butter with Greek yogurt to create a high-protein breakfast or post-workout snack.

FAQs About Baked Oatmeal Bars

• Are these oatmeal bars healthy?

Yes! They’re packed with nutritious ingredients like whole grain oats, bananas, and optional add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. They provide a balanced breakfast or snack with protein, fiber, and natural sweetness.

• Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use certified gluten-free oats to ensure the recipe is safe for those with gluten sensitivities. The other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

• How can I customize the flavor?

You have lots of options! Try different mix-ins like dried cranberries, blueberries, chopped almonds, or dark chocolate chips. You can also experiment with spices like nutmeg or swap maple syrup with honey.

• Are these oatmeal bars good for meal prep?

Definitely! These bars keep well in the refrigerator for 5-7 days and can be easily packed for quick breakfasts or on-the-go snacks. They’re perfect for busy mornings when you need a nutritious, grab-and-go option.

Why Baked Oatmeal Bars Make Mornings Better

• Whip Up Quick Breakfast: These baked oatmeal bars transform boring morning routines into delightful, energizing experiences. Prepare them in under 40 minutes from start to finish, making busy mornings smoother and more delicious.
• Customize with Endless Variations: Swap ingredients effortlessly to match your mood or pantry contents. Add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits for personalized flavor explosions that keep breakfast exciting and never monotonous.
• Meal Prep Champion: Perfect for advanced preparation, these bars stay fresh for several days when stored properly. Pack them for work, school, or post-workout snacks, ensuring nutritious eating becomes convenient and stress-free.
• Budget-Friendly Nutrition Powerhouse: Utilizing simple, affordable ingredients like oats, bananas, and eggs, these bars deliver maximum nutritional value without breaking the bank. Enjoy a wholesome breakfast that's both economical and satisfying.

What You Need For Baked Oatmeal Bars

• Oats: Hearty whole grain that provides the main structure and texture of the bars.
• Baking Powder: Helps the bars rise and become light and fluffy.
• Cinnamon: Warm spice that adds depth and comforting flavor.
• Salt: Enhances overall taste and balances sweetness.

• Bananas, Eggs: Natural binding agents that hold the bars together and provide moisture.
• Milk: Adds liquid and helps create a soft, tender texture.
• Maple Syrup: Natural sweetener with rich, distinctive flavor.
• Vanilla Extract: Aromatic ingredient that deepens the overall taste profile.

• Nut Butter: Creamy addition that boosts protein and adds richness.
• Chocolate Chips, Nuts, Dried Fruit: Customizable mix-ins for extra flavor and texture.

Steps To Make Baked Oatmeal Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Station

Set your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C). Grab a square 8×8-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, letting the edges hang over for easy removal later.

Step 2: Create the Dry Mixture

• Rolled oats
• Baking powder
• Ground cinnamon
• Pinch of sea salt

Step 3: Whip Up the Wet Ingredients

• Ripe mashed bananas
• Eggs
• Milk (dairy or plant-based)
• Pure maple syrup
• Vanilla extract
• Almond butter or peanut butter (optional)

Whisk everything together until perfectly blended.

Step 4: Marry the Mixtures

• Chocolate chips
• Chopped nuts
• Dried cranberries
• Shredded coconut

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared pan. Slide into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges turn golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let the bars rest for 10-15 minutes. The anticipation builds as they cool! Lift out the parchment paper and slice into squares. Enjoy warm or at room temperature for a delicious anytime treat.

Pro Tip: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days, or freeze for a future snack attack!

Baked Oatmeal Bars Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 12 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Homemade baked oatmeal bars bring warmth and comfort to morning routines with wholesome ingredients and simple preparation. Packed with nutrition and delightful flavor, these bars offer a satisfying breakfast or snack you can enjoy anytime during your day.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups (200 grams) rolled oats (gluten-free if needed)
• 2 large eggs (or flax eggs for vegan)
• ½ cup (120 milliliters) milk (dairy or non-dairy)
• ⅓ cup (80 milliliters) maple syrup, honey, or agave syrup
• 2 ripe bananas, mashed (or ½ cup applesauce)

Flavor and Binding Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Add-ins:

• ¼ cup (60 grams) peanut butter or almond butter (optional for extra richness)
• ½ cup (90 grams) chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Prepare the baking environment by heating the oven to 350F (175C) and lining a square baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring complete coverage of the bottom and sides.
2. Create a dry ingredient foundation by thoroughly mixing rolled oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and kosher salt in a spacious mixing bowl until evenly distributed.
3. Craft a smooth wet ingredient blend by vigorously whisking ripe mashed bananas, farm-fresh eggs, creamy milk, rich maple syrup, aromatic vanilla extract, and optional nutty nut butter until the mixture achieves a uniform consistency.
4. Merge the dry and wet components by gently pouring the liquid mixture into the oat mixture, stirring with deliberate strokes until completely integrated. Tenderly incorporate chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit throughout the batter for additional texture and flavor complexity.
5. Transfer the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish, using a spatula to spread the batter evenly and create a smooth surface that reaches all corners of the pan.
6. Position the dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, monitoring until the edges transform into a golden-brown hue and a inserted toothpick emerges clean and dry.
7. Remove from the oven and allow the baked oatmeal to rest and stabilize for a minimum of 10 minutes, enabling the bars to set and cool slightly before slicing into uniform squares or rectangular portions.

Notes

• Customize your bars by swapping out ingredients to match dietary needs like gluten-free, vegan, or nut-free alternatives.
• Use ripe bananas for natural sweetness and better binding, ensuring a moist and cohesive texture in your oatmeal bars.
• Experiment with different mix-ins like seeds, coconut flakes, or alternative chocolate chips to create unique flavor combinations.
• Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days or refrigerate for extended freshness, allowing quick grab-and-go breakfast or snack options.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 120mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 50mg