Homemade Granola Bars / Oat Bar Recipe

a bar of granola sitting on top of a table

Oat bars are a beloved and nutritious snack that provides a satisfying combination of fiber, complex carbohydrates, and essential nutrients. To elevate this classic snack, we'll be using coconut sugar—a healthier alternative to refined sugar. Coconut sugar not only adds a mild caramel-like flavor but also has a lower glycemic index, making it a better choice for those looking to manage their blood sugar levels. In this detailed recipe, we'll guide you through the process of making wholesome oat bars using coconut sugar. These bars are perfect for a quick breakfast, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a nutritious snack for kids and adults alike.

Ingredients For Oatmeal Bars Recipe

Before we start, let's gather all the necessary ingredients for our coconut sugar oat bars:

2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
1 cup oat flour (you can make this by blending oats until fine)
1/2 cup coconut sugar
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (or a suitable butter substitute)
1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
1 large egg
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup raisins, dried cranberries, or your choice of dried fruit
1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds or walnuts)

Step 1: About Coconut Flower Sugar (100 words):

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Coconut Flower sugar, also known as coconut sugar, or coconut blossom sugar is a natural sweetener derived from the sap of the coconut palm tree's flower buds. It has become increasingly popular as a healthier alternative to refined sugar due to its lower glycemic index. This means it has a slower and more controlled effect on blood sugar levels, making it a more suitable choice for individuals looking to manage their blood sugar.

Coconut sugar has a delightful caramel-like flavor and a similar sweetness level to regular sugar, allowing it to be easily incorporated into various recipes. Its rich flavor makes it an excellent choice for adding depth to our oat bars without causing rapid spikes in blood sugar.

Step 2: Preparing The Homemade Granola Bars :

To create the oat base for our bars, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9x9-inch (23x23 cm) square baking pan.

In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of old-fashioned rolled oats, 1 cup of oat flour, 1/2 cup of coconut sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Oat flour is simply oats ground into a fine powder, which provides structure and texture to your bars.

Stir the dry ingredients together until they are well combined, and the coconut sugar is evenly distributed. The aromatic cinnamon and mild sweetness of coconut sugar will infuse the base with a delightful flavor.

Step 3: Adding Wet Ingredients Of Your Oatmeal Bars Recipe :

In a separate bowl, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, which adds a rich, buttery flavor to your bars. If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can use a suitable butter substitute, such as coconut oil.

Add 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract to the melted butter. The applesauce not only contributes moisture but also helps reduce the total fat content.

Whisk these wet ingredients together until they are well combined, creating a smooth and cohesive mixture. The vanilla extract will provide a pleasant aroma, enhancing the overall flavor of your bars.

Step 4: Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients Of Your Recipe For Granola Bars :

Now it's time to combine the wet and dry ingredients to create the oat bar batter. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredient bowl and stir until all the ingredients are well incorporated. The combination of the sweet, nutty, and slightly spicy aroma of coconut sugar and cinnamon with the rich, buttery essence creates a tantalizing flavor profile.

As the batter comes together, you'll notice it becomes thick and sticky. This is the result of the oats and oat flour absorbing the liquid ingredients, ensuring your oat bars maintain a satisfying chewy texture.

Step 5: Adding Mix-Ins Of Oat Bars Snacks :

To customize your oat bars, fold in 1/2 cup of your favorite mix-ins. Dried fruit such as raisins or dried cranberries can add a natural sweetness and chewiness to the bars. Chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, introduce a delightful crunch and a dose of healthy fats.

Gently fold these mix-ins into the batter until they are evenly distributed. The result is a well-balanced blend of flavors and textures in every bite.

Step 6: Baking and Cooling Oat Bars:

Transfer the oat bar batter into the greased baking pan, using a spatula to evenly spread it out. Press the mixture down firmly to ensure the bars hold together after baking.

Bake the oat bars in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma of baked oats and the caramel-like scent of coconut sugar will fill your kitchen as they bake.

Once done, remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, using a sharp knife, cut the bars into your desired portions while they're still in the pan. This allows them to set better and ensures cleaner cuts.

Step 7: Enjoying Your Homemade Granola Bars / Oat Bars :

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After the oat bars have fully cooled in the pan, you can remove them and enjoy the delicious, wholesome snack you've created. These coconut sugar oat bars are a delightful combination of chewy, sweet, and nutty, and they make for a perfect snack on the go, a quick breakfast, or a guilt-free treat any time of the day. Share them with family and friends or keep them on hand for a nutritious and satisfying snack option.

In conclusion, these homemade granola bars / oat bars sweetened with coconut sugar are a wholesome and delicious snack that is not only easy to make but also a great alternative to sugar-laden store-bought options. The combination of oats, coconut sugar, and a variety of mix-ins creates a delightful treat that's perfect for individuals looking to enjoy a sweet snack without compromising on health. So, gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and savor the guilt-free delight of these coconut sugar oat bars. Your taste buds and your well-being will thank you!