Cereal Bars
Cereal bars are the ultimate convenient snack, perfect for on-the-go munching or as a quick breakfast option. With a delightful combination of chewy and crunchy textures, these bars can be customized with your favorite ingredients. Whether you prefer fruity, nutty, or chocolaty flavors, making your own cereal bars at home allows you to control the ingredients and create a healthier option without preservatives. Let’s dive into the simple recipe and enjoy a homemade treat that the whole family will love!
Ingredients
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup honey or maple syrup
– 1/2 cup nut butter (peanut, almond, or cashew)
– 1/2 cup dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, or apricots)
– 1/2 cup nuts or seeds (walnuts, almonds, or pumpkin seeds)
– 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 12 bars. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 bar) contains approximately:
– Calories: 150
– Protein: 4g
– Carbohydrates: 25g
– Fat: 5g
– Fiber: 2g
This nutritional value is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a baking dish (8×8 inches) with parchment paper.
3. In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, salt, and any dry ingredients.
4. In a small saucepan, heat honey and nut butter over low heat until melted.
5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
6. Pour the honey mixture over the dry ingredients and mix well.
7. Add dried fruits, nuts, and chocolate chips, and mix until evenly distributed.
8. Press the mixture firmly into the prepared baking dish.
9. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
10. Let cool completely before slicing into bars.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily swap out honey for agave syrup for a vegan option. Nut butter can be replaced with sunflower seed butter for nut-free alternatives. Feel free to customize your mix-ins with your favorite fruits, nuts, or seeds.
Serving and Pairings
These cereal bars are perfect on their own but can also be paired with yogurt or fresh fruit for a more substantial snack. They make a great addition to lunchboxes or picnic spreads.
Storage and Reheating
Store the cereal bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They can also be refrigerated for longer freshness. These bars can be frozen for up to 3 months; just wrap them individually in plastic wrap.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not pressing the mixture firmly enough into the pan can lead to crumbly bars.
- Overbaking can make the bars too hard; keep an eye on them.
- Using too much liquid can make the bars sticky and unmanageable.
- Skipping the parchment paper may cause sticking.
- Not letting the bars cool completely before slicing can result in uneven pieces.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different nut and seed combinations for variety.
- Try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the bars for clean edges.
- Consider adding protein powder for a nutrition boost.
FAQs
Can I make cereal bars gluten-free?
Yes, simply use certified gluten-free oats and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
How do I know when my cereal bars are done baking?
They should be lightly golden brown around the edges. A toothpick should come out clean when inserted into the center.
Can I add protein powder to my cereal bars?
Absolutely! Adding protein powder can enhance the nutritional value. Just be mindful of the liquid ratio.
How long do cereal bars last?
When stored properly in an airtight container, they can last up to a week at room temperature or longer in the fridge.
Can I customize the flavors?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in your favorite ingredients like coconut, different seeds, or flavored protein powders.
Conclusion
Homemade cereal bars are not only easy to make but also delicious and nutritious. With endless customization options, they are a perfect snack for any occasion. So gather your ingredients and start creating your perfect cereal bars today!
Cereal Bars
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup nut butter peanut, almond, or cashew
- 1/2 cup dried fruits raisins, cranberries, or apricots
- 1/2 cup nuts or seeds walnuts, almonds, or pumpkin seeds
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips optional
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking dish (8x8 inches) with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, salt, and any dry ingredients.
- In a small saucepan, heat honey and nut butter over low heat until melted.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Pour the honey mixture over the dry ingredients and mix well.
- Add dried fruits, nuts, and chocolate chips, and mix until evenly distributed.
- Press the mixture firmly into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let cool completely before slicing into bars.
