Recipe for Homemade Oatmeal Bars with Dried Cherries

Recipe for Homemade Oatmeal Bars with Dried Cherries

Introduction

Oatmeal bars with dried cherries are a fantastic treat that balances the natural sweetness of cherries with the hearty texture of oats. These bars are ideal for an on-the-go breakfast, a healthy snack, or even a light dessert. The addition of dried cherries adds a slight tartness, which enhances the flavors and brings a unique touch to the bars. Plus, they’re easy to prepare with simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.

This recipe yields chewy, delicious bars that are packed with nutrients, fiber, and natural sweetness. Here’s how to make them at home.

Ingredients

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1 cup whole wheat flour (or all-purpose flour)
• 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut (optional)
• 1/2 cup dried cherries, roughly chopped
• 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup melted coconut oil or unsalted butter
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, flour, shredded coconut, dried cherries, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Stir until all the ingredients are evenly mixed.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil or butter, brown sugar, honey (or maple syrup), egg, and vanilla extract.
2. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

1. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients in the large bowl.
2. Use a spatula to mix until all ingredients are evenly coated, and the mixture is sticky and well-combined.

Step 5: Press the Mixture into the Pan

Transfer the oat mixture to the prepared baking pan. Use the back of a spoon or your hands to press it firmly into an even layer. Ensure the mixture is packed tightly so that the bars hold together after baking.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the top is lightly set. Be cautious not to overbake, as this can lead to overly hard bars.

Step 7: Cool and Cut

1. Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. This helps them set and makes slicing easier.
2. Once cooled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang and place them on a cutting board. Slice into squares or rectangles as desired.

Tips for Perfect Oatmeal Bars

• Binding the Bars: The egg in the recipe acts as a binding agent, but if you’re looking for a vegan option, you can replace the egg with a “flax egg” (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, left to sit for 5 minutes).
• Sweeteners: Honey and maple syrup both work well in this recipe, offering a natural sweetness that complements the cherries. Adjust the sweetness to taste by adding more or less brown sugar or honey.
• Add-Ins: Feel free to mix in other ingredients like chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or sunflower seeds for added flavor and texture.
• Cutting the Bars: For cleaner cuts, refrigerate the bars for about 15 minutes before slicing. This will help them hold their shape.

Storage and Shelf Life

Store the oatmeal bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you’d like to extend their shelf life, you can keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them individually for easy grab-and-go snacks.

Variations on the Recipe

1. Nutty Delight: Add chopped almonds or walnuts to the mix for an extra crunch and boost of protein.
2. Chocolate Twist: Toss in a handful of dark chocolate chips for a hint of chocolate that pairs wonderfully with dried cherries.
3. Cranberry-Orange Oat Bars: Swap out the dried cherries for dried cranberries and add a teaspoon of orange zest for a bright, citrusy twist.
4. Peanut Butter Cherry Bars: Substitute 1/4 cup of the melted butter or coconut oil with peanut butter for a nutty, protein-rich alternative.

Serving Suggestions

• Breakfast On-the-Go: These bars are perfect for a quick, healthy breakfast paired with a cup of coffee or tea.
• Post-Workout Snack: Oatmeal bars provide a good balance of protein and carbs, making them an ideal post-exercise snack.
• Lunchbox Treat: Pack them as a sweet treat in kids’ lunchboxes or as a snack to keep you fueled during the day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make these bars gluten-free by substituting the flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensuring you use certified gluten-free oats.

What can I use instead of honey or maple syrup?
You can replace honey or maple syrup with agave syrup, or if you prefer a sugar-free option, try a liquid stevia blend. Just be mindful of the sweetness level.

How do I make the bars softer or chewier?
To make the bars softer, increase the quantity of wet ingredients slightly (like adding a bit more coconut oil or honey). For chewier bars, bake them for a shorter time.

Conclusion

These oatmeal bars with dried cherries are a wholesome, delicious treat that you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you enjoy them as a quick breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a healthy dessert, their balance of flavors and textures is sure to satisfy. Try this recipe and treat yourself to a homemade snack that’s both nourishing and full of natural sweetness!