Cereal bars are the ultimate on-the-go snack, combining wholesome ingredients into a chewy, satisfying treat. Perfect for breakfast, a midday pick-me-up, or post-workout fuel, they offer a delicious way to enjoy the benefits of oats, nuts, and dried fruits. With endless variations, you can easily tailor them to your taste, making these bars a staple in any healthy diet.
Ingredients
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup nut butter (almond or peanut)
– 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
– 1/2 cup nuts (chopped)
– 1/2 cup dried fruits (raisins, cranberries)
– 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes about 12 bars. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and chilling time is 1 hour.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 bar) contains approximately 150 calories, 5g protein, 20g carbohydrates, 7g fat, and 3g fiber. This is based on standard ingredients and may vary based on substitutions.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). 2. Line a baking dish with parchment paper. 3. In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, nuts, and dried fruits. 4. In a separate bowl, mix nut butter, honey, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. 5. Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until evenly coated. 6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. 7. Press down firmly to create an even layer. 8. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden. 9. Remove from the oven and let cool for about 10 minutes. 10. Cut into bars and chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour before serving. 
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily substitute ingredients in this recipe. For a nut-free version, use sunflower seed butter and omit nuts. If you prefer a vegan option, replace honey with agave syrup. Different dried fruits and seeds can also be mixed in for variety.
Serving and Pairings
Cereal bars can be enjoyed alone or paired with yogurt for a nutritious breakfast. They also complement a smoothie or can be crumbled over oatmeal for added flavor and texture.
Storage and Reheating
Store cereal bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They can also be refrigerated for longer freshness. For freezing, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be thawed at room temperature.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not pressing the mixture firmly enough can lead to crumbly bars.
- Using too much liquid can make the bars soggy.
- Skipping the chilling step may result in bars that fall apart.
- Overbaking can cause the bars to become hard and dry.
- Substituting ingredients without consideration can affect texture and taste.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different flavor combinations.
- Use a sharp knife to cut bars for clean edges.
- Add protein powder for an extra boost.
- Top with a drizzle of melted chocolate for a sweet touch.
FAQs
What are cereal bars made of?
Cereal bars are typically made from a combination of oats, nut butter, sweeteners, and various mix-ins like nuts, seeds, and dried fruits. They can be customized according to taste preferences.
How long do homemade cereal bars last?
Homemade cereal bars can last up to a week at room temperature, longer if stored in the refrigerator. For best quality, consider freezing them for extended storage.
Can I make cereal bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can make gluten-free cereal bars by using certified gluten-free oats and ensuring that any other ingredients are gluten-free.
Are cereal bars healthy?
Cereal bars can be a healthy snack option, especially when made with whole ingredients. However, it’s essential to watch for added sugars and portion sizes.
Can I freeze cereal bars?
Absolutely! Cereal bars can be frozen for long-term storage. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag.
Conclusion
Cereal bars are a versatile and nutritious snack that can be tailored to suit any taste. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast or a post-workout treat, they provide a satisfying boost of energy. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create delicious bars that are perfect for any occasion.
Cereal Bars
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup nut butter almond or peanut
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup nuts chopped
- 1/2 cup dried fruits raisins, cranberries
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips optional
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, nuts, and dried fruits.
- In a separate bowl, mix nut butter, honey, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
- Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- Press down firmly to create an even layer.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for about 10 minutes.
- Cut into bars and chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour before serving.
Nutrition
