These breakfast bars are perfect for a busy morning! Packed with oats, nuts, and a hint of sweetness, they are chewy and satisfying. You can grab one on the go!
Making these is a breeze! I love mixing different fruits and nuts to keep it fun. And let’s be honest, they make mornings a lot less hectic—who doesn’t love that? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats are great for chewiness. If you don’t have these handy, instant oats work too, but they might make the bars a bit softer.
Crispy Rice Cereal: This adds a nice crunch. You could use granola or leave it out entirely if you prefer a denser bar.
Dried Cranberries: They’re sweet and tangy, but feel free to swap them for raisins, chopped dates, or even chocolate chips for a treat!
Nuts: I love almonds or walnuts, but you can use any nut you like or even seeds if you’re nut-free.
Peanut Butter: Natural peanut butter gives a good flavor. Almond butter or sunflower seed butter can be great alternatives!
Honey or Maple Syrup: Both work well! Honey is stickier, while maple syrup offers a different flavor profile. Use any sweetener you prefer!
How Can I Ensure My Breakfast Bars Stay Firm?
To make sure your breakfast bars set up nicely, it’s important to press the mixture firmly into the pan. This compactness helps the bars hold together when cut.
- Line your pan with parchment to prevent sticking. Leave some paper hanging out to make lifting them out easier.
- Warm your peanut butter mixture just enough so it blends smoothly. Don’t overheat it!
- Press the mixture down well using a spatula or your hands—getting it into an even layer is crucial.
- Chill it thoroughly in the fridge. The longer you let it set, the firmer your bars will be.
With these tips, you’ll have delicious, sturdy breakfast bars ready to enjoy throughout the week!
Breakfast Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup crispy rice cereal
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries (or other dried fruit)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds or walnuts)
Binding Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (or almond butter)
- 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then requires at least 2 hours of chilling time in the refrigerator to ensure the bars are firm enough to cut. In total, you’re looking at about 2 hours and 10 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Pan:
Start by lining an 8×8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper. Leave some extra paper hanging over the sides. This will help you lift the bars out easily when they’re ready!
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, crispy rice cereal, dried cranberries, and chopped nuts. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to mix everything together evenly.
3. Heat the Binding Mixture:
Next, take a small saucepan and set it over low heat. Add the peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and salt. Stir constantly until everything is smooth and well combined. This should only take a few minutes.
4. Mix It All Together:
Pour the warm peanut butter mixture over the oat mixture in the bowl. Stir well until all the dry ingredients are coated with the gooey mixture. Make sure there are no dry spots!
5. Press the Mixture Into the Pan:
Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking pan. Using a spatula or even your clean hands, press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan. It’s important to compact it to help the bars hold together.
6. Chill in the Refrigerator:
Once pressed into the pan, cover it with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the fridge. Let it chill for at least 2 hours, or until it’s firm.
7. Cut and Serve:
After the mixture has set, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Place them on a cutting board and cut them into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference.
8. Storage:
Store your delicious breakfast bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They’re perfect for quick breakfasts or snacks!
Enjoy these easy, no-bake, wholesome breakfast bars as a grab-and-go morning treat! You’ll love how simple and flexible they are!
Can I Use Different Types of Nuts or Seeds?
Absolutely! You can use any nuts or seeds you prefer, such as pecans, sunflower seeds, or even pumpkin seeds. Just make sure to chop larger nuts to ensure they mix well with the other ingredients.
What If I Don’t Have Honey or Maple Syrup?
No problem! You can substitute honey or maple syrup with agave syrup, brown rice syrup, or even a combination of fruit purees like mashed banana or applesauce for a lower-sugar option.
Can I Make These Breakfast Bars Gluten-Free?
Yes! Just ensure you choose gluten-free rolled oats and crispy rice cereal. Many brands offer gluten-free alternatives that work just as well.
How Should I Store These Breakfast Bars?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze them; just wrap them individually and place them in a zip-top bag. Thaw before enjoying!
