Delicious and Easy Oatmeal Bars Recipe

Name: Delicious and Easy Oatmeal Bars Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-479318H38M23S
Total time: PT-479318H38M23S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups old-fashioned oats; 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; ⅔ cup light brown sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 large egg, beaten; ¾ cup butter, melted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 12-ounce jar raspberry preserves

Oatmeal bars are a fantastic snack that strikes the perfect balance between sweet, chewy, and wholesome. Whether you’re looking for a simple dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth or a quick, portable snack for the kids, these oatmeal bars will certainly deliver. Made with old-fashioned oats, raspberry preserves, and a touch of sweetness from brown sugar, they provide a classic and comforting flavor profile.

In this article, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know about making these delectable oatmeal bars. We’ll also give tips, variations, and answers to common questions at the end. So, let’s get started!

Ingredients Overview

Main Ingredients:

Old-Fashioned Oats:
- Oats are the star ingredient of this recipe, giving the bars their signature chewy texture and wholesome flavor.
- They are rich in fiber, which makes these bars a filling snack option.
All-Purpose Flour:
- Flour binds the bars together and adds structure.
- You can use whole wheat flour for a healthier variation.
Light Brown Sugar:
- Brown sugar brings a deep, molasses-like sweetness that enhances the overall flavor of the bars.
Baking Powder and Salt:
- Baking powder gives the bars a slight lift, and the salt enhances all the flavors.
Egg:
- The beaten egg acts as a binder, holding all the ingredients together.
Butter:
- Melted butter adds richness to the bars and helps in creating a crunchy texture for the top layer.
Vanilla Extract:
- Vanilla adds a warm and aromatic touch to the bars.
Raspberry Preserves:
- Raspberry preserves bring a sweet, tangy contrast to the rich and buttery oat mixture. You can substitute with any other fruit preserves for variety.

How to Make Oatmeal Bars: Step-by-Step Instructions

Making these oatmeal bars is surprisingly simple. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you prepare them with ease:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing your baking dish is an essential step to ensure that the bars don’t stick, and it helps create a lovely golden crust.
Grease a 7×11-inch baking dish with butter or shortening and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Oat Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: 1 ½ cups old-fashioned oats, 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour, ⅔ cup light brown sugar, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and ½ teaspoon salt. Make sure to mix thoroughly so that the ingredients are well distributed.
Once the dry ingredients are mixed, stir in the beaten egg, ¾ cup melted butter, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. The butter will give the mixture a moist texture, and the vanilla enhances the flavor.

Step 3: Assemble the Base Layer

Take half of the oat mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of the greased baking dish. This forms the base of your oatmeal bars and should be evenly spread to ensure uniform thickness.
Use your fingers or the back of a spoon to smooth it out.

Step 4: Add the Raspberry Layer

Warm 12 ounces of raspberry preserves in a small saucepan over low heat until slightly loosened. This step ensures the preserves spread easily and evenly.
Spread the warmed preserves over the base layer in the baking dish, creating a delicious fruit filling.

Step 5: Add the Top Layer

Crumble the remaining oatmeal mixture evenly over the raspberry preserves. The crumbles will form a crispy topping once baked, giving the bars their characteristic texture.

Step 6: Bake the Bars

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned and set.
It’s essential to let the bars cool completely in the dish before slicing. This allows them to set properly, making it easier to cut clean squares.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Oatmeal Bars

1. Use Quality Raspberry Preserves:

The quality of the preserves you use can significantly impact the taste of the bars. Opt for a high-quality brand or even homemade preserves for the best results.

2. Allow for Cooling Time:

Don’t rush to slice the bars while they’re still warm. Letting them cool completely will result in cleaner cuts and better texture. If you’re in a hurry, refrigerate the bars to speed up the cooling process.

3. Experiment with Flavors:

While raspberry preserves add a lovely tartness, you can experiment with other fruit preserves such as strawberry, apricot, or even blueberry for a different flavor profile.

4. Substitutions for a Healthier Option:

For a healthier version, substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, and reduce the amount of brown sugar. You can also use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free alternative.

Why These Oatmeal Bars Are a Great Snack Option

Oatmeal bars provide a balance between indulgence and health. They are rich in fiber due to the oats, and the raspberry filling offers a dose of antioxidants and vitamins. Unlike store-bought snacks filled with preservatives, these homemade bars are free of artificial ingredients, making them a much healthier option for you and your family.

Whether you’re packing them for a picnic, serving them at a family gathering, or just enjoying them with a cup of coffee, these oatmeal bars are versatile and always a crowd-pleaser.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 200 kcal
Carbohydrates: 25 grams
Protein: 3 grams
Fat: 9 grams
Fiber: 2 grams
Sugar: 15 grams

These nutritional values make oatmeal bars a guilt-free treat. They’re filling, slightly sweet, and full of wholesome ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I substitute the raspberry preserves with another type of fruit?

Yes! You can substitute the raspberry preserves with any fruit preserve of your choice. Strawberry, apricot, or even blueberry preserves work wonderfully in this recipe.

2. How should I store the oatmeal bars?

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months.

3. Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and make sure to use certified gluten-free oats to adapt this recipe for a gluten-free diet.

4. Can I add nuts to the recipe?

Yes, chopped nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans would make a delicious addition to the oat mixture. Just stir them into the mixture before pressing it into the pan.

5. How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The bars are done when the top is lightly browned, and the edges are set. If the center still seems a bit soft, it will firm up as the bars cool.

Conclusion

These oatmeal bars are the perfect balance between sweet and hearty, with the oats providing a chewy texture and the raspberry preserves offering a burst of fruity flavor. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, they’re a great treat to make any time of the year. Whether you enjoy them as a dessert, a snack, or even a quick breakfast, these oatmeal bars are sure to become a favorite.

Try out this recipe today and experience the comforting flavors of these homemade oatmeal bars!