Recipe: Oatmeal Bars with Pine Nuts

Recipe: Oatmeal Bars with Pine Nuts

Oatmeal bars with pine nuts are a delicious and nutritious snack, offering a perfect balance of fiber, protein, and healthy fats. The oats provide a hearty, chewy base, while the pine nuts add a rich, nutty flavor and a bit of crunch. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast on the go, a midday snack, or a post-workout treat, these bars are sure to satisfy your cravings.

Packed with natural ingredients and free of preservatives, these homemade oatmeal bars are an excellent alternative to store-bought granola bars. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a healthy snack that is both delicious and filling.

Ingredients

• 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1/2 cup pine nuts (lightly toasted)
• 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup almond butter or peanut butter
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• A pinch of salt

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Toast the Pine Nuts
   In a small pan, lightly toast the pine nuts over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become golden brown and fragrant. Set them aside to cool.

2. Mix the Wet Ingredients
   In a large bowl, combine the honey or maple syrup, almond butter (or peanut butter), applesauce, vanilla extract, cinnamon (if using), and a pinch of salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

1. Add the Oats
   Stir in the rolled oats, ensuring that they are evenly coated with the wet ingredients. The oats should absorb the liquid, and the mixture will become thicker.

2. Add the Toasted Pine Nuts
   Once the oats are fully mixed in, fold in the toasted pine nuts. These will add a delicious nutty flavor and a nice crunch to the bars.

Step 3: Shape and Bake the Bars

1. Prepare the Baking Dish
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

2. Press the Mixture into the Dish
   Transfer the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spoon or your hands to evenly press the mixture down into the dish, ensuring that it is packed tightly.

3. Bake the Bars
   Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bars are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The bars should hold their shape but still feel slightly soft in the center.

Step 4: Cool and Slice

1. Cool the Bars
   Once the bars are baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the baking dish. This will help them set and become easier to cut.

2. Slice into Bars
   After the bars have cooled, lift the parchment paper from the baking dish and transfer the bars onto a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to cut them into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve
   These oatmeal bars can be enjoyed immediately, or you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They also keep well in the refrigerator for longer storage.

2. Storage
   For longer storage, you can refrigerate the bars to keep them fresh for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months. Wrap each bar individually in parchment paper or plastic wrap for easy grab-and-go snacks.

Tips and Variations

1. Add Dried Fruit
   If you like, you can add dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or apricots to the bars for extra flavor and sweetness. Simply fold them into the mixture along with the pine nuts.

2. Make It Vegan
   For a vegan option, use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure your nut butter is plant-based.

3. Add Chocolate Chips
   For a touch of sweetness, add some dark chocolate chips to the mixture before baking. The combination of chocolate, oats, and pine nuts will make for an even more indulgent treat.

4. Make Them Gluten-Free
   These oatmeal bars are naturally gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free oats. This makes them suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Health Benefits

1. Oats
   Oats are a great source of soluble fiber, which can help lower cholesterol and improve heart health. They also provide a steady source of energy and are great for digestion.

2. Pine Nuts
   Pine nuts are rich in healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants. They provide essential nutrients like magnesium and vitamin K, which are beneficial for overall health.

3. Honey or Maple Syrup
   Both honey and maple syrup are natural sweeteners that offer antioxidants and minerals. They add sweetness without refined sugars and contribute to a more balanced snack.

4. Nut Butter
   Nut butters like almond or peanut butter are packed with healthy fats and protein, which help keep you feeling full and satisfied. They also provide essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin E and magnesium.

Conclusion

Oatmeal bars with pine nuts are a delicious, healthy, and satisfying snack that you can enjoy at any time of day. These bars are easy to make, full of natural ingredients, and offer a perfect balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Whether you’re packing them for lunch, enjoying them as a post-workout snack, or simply munching on them between meals, these bars are a great way to fuel your day. Try this recipe today, and enjoy a wholesome, tasty treat that’s perfect for all ages!