Description
These chewy, wholesome oat bars mimic the famous Starbucks version with a perfect balance of sweetness and texture. Packed with oats, dried fruits, and a hint of cinnamon, they make for a satisfying breakfast or snack.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust:
- For the base:
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the filling:
- 1 cup dried cranberries or raisins
- 1/2 cup chopped dried apricots
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
- Make the filling: In a small saucepan, combine dried cranberries, apricots, orange juice, honey, and cinnamon. Cook over low heat for 5-7 minutes until fruits soften and liquid is absorbed. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together oats, flour, brown sugar, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Add melted butter, honey, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until crumbly but cohesive.
- Press 2/3 of the oat mixture firmly into the prepared pan to form the base.
- Spread the fruit filling evenly over the base.
- Sprinkle remaining oat mixture over the top and press lightly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Cool completely in pan before cutting into bars.
Notes
For a gluten-free version, substitute gluten-free flour. Bars keep well in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage. Warm slightly before serving for extra softness.