Get ready to transform your snack game with these mind-blowing Strawberry Chocolate Chunk Oatmeal Bars that are not just insanely delicious, but also completely gluten-free and vegan! Imagine biting into a perfectly balanced treat that combines the sweetness of ripe strawberries, the richness of dark chocolate chunks, and the wholesome goodness of rolled oats. These bars are about to become your new obsession - a dessert that looks like it came straight from a gourmet bakery but can be whipped up in just 40 minutes!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Vegan
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup almond milk
- 1 cup strawberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chunks
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, and salt. Mix well to ensure the baking powder and salt are evenly distributed throughout the oats.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry oat mixture. Stir until just combined, making sure all the oats are moistened.
- Gently fold in the chopped strawberries and dark chocolate chunks, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly and press it down firmly to ensure the bars hold together during baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set.
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, using the parchment paper overhang, lift the bars out of the pan and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, cut into 8 equal bars. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the most vibrant flavor and natural sweetness.
- Make sure to press the mixture firmly into the baking pan to ensure compact, easy-to-slice bars.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to help them hold their shape.
- For extra decadence, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top after cooling.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and texture.
- These bars can be enjoyed as a quick breakfast, afternoon snack, or even a healthier dessert option.
- Feel free to experiment with different mix-ins like nuts or other berries for variety.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 0mg
