Are you ready to indulge in a deliciously wholesome snack that’s as nutritious as it is satisfying? Say hello to Homemade Oatmeal and Lentil Bars! Packed with rolled oats, protein-rich lentils, and a touch of sweetness from honey or maple syrup, these bars are perfect for breakfast on the go, post-workout fuel, or a midday pick-me-up. With just a few simple ingredients and 40 minutes of your time, you can create 12 delightful bars that will keep your energy levels soaring. Don’t miss out on this tasty treat that combines health and flavor in every bite!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup cooked lentils
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 1/4 cup dried fruits (raisins, cranberries)
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, cooked lentils, chia seeds, dried fruits, cinnamon, and salt. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
- In a separate microwave-safe bowl, warm the honey (or maple syrup) and almond butter for 30 seconds, stirring until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the warm honey-almond butter mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until all ingredients are evenly coated and form a cohesive mixture.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan, pressing firmly and evenly with the back of a spatula to create a compact layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and the top feels firm to the touch.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan for about 1 hour. The bars will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan, then cut into 12 even rectangles using a sharp knife.
- Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness.
Tips
- Customize Your Add-Ins: Feel free to get creative with your dried fruits! You can use raisins, cranberries, or even chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
- Make It Vegan: Substitute honey with maple syrup to make these bars completely plant-based without sacrificing sweetness.
- Ensure Even Mixing: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, make sure everything is well-coated to achieve the perfect texture throughout the bars.
- Press Firmly: When transferring the mixture to the baking pan, press it down firmly to create a compact layer. This will help the bars hold together nicely once baked.
- Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the bars as they bake; they should be golden brown around the edges and firm to the touch. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture.
- Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan for at least an hour before cutting. This step is crucial for achieving clean cuts and maintaining their shape.
- Storage Tips: Store your bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate them for longer freshness. They make a great snack to have on hand!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 150kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
