Jam Oat Bars Recipe
Oat bars have been a staple in healthy eating for decades, stemming from the need for convenient, portable snacks. Traditional recipes often included refined sugar, but modern variations like this one focus on natural sweetness and nutrient-rich ingredients.
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 8x8-inch baking dish
- Parchment paper
- Spatula or spoon
Ingredients
Oat Layer:
- 2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/3 cup coconut oil (melted) or unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Jam Filling:
- 1 cup sugar-free fruit jam (strawberry, raspberry, or your favorite flavor)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional, for added nutrition and texture)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking dish with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang for easy removal.
- Prepare the Oat Layer:In a large bowl, combine oats, flour, cinnamon, and salt.Add melted coconut oil and honey/maple syrup. Mix until the ingredients form a crumbly dough.
- Layer the Base:Press two-thirds of the oat mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Use the back of a spoon or your hands to press it firmly to form the base.
- Spread the Jam Filling:In a small bowl, mix the jam with chia seeds (if using). Spread the jam evenly over the oat base, ensuring it reaches the edges.
- Top the Bars:Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the jam layer. Gently press it down to secure the topping.
- Bake:Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top turns golden brown.
- Cool and Slice:Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment overhang. Slice into 12 equal bars.