Bake with love: delightful kids oat bar recipe for special occasions

Treat your little ones to the ultimate healthy indulgence with our delectable kids oat bar recipe. These wholesome bars are packed with the goodness of oats, providing a burst of energy and essential nutrients. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or packed lunches, these oat bars will satisfy their cravings and keep them energized throughout the day.

Ingredients

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
2. Prepare Baking Pan: Line a 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. Add Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, honey, and milk. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Fold in Add-Ins: Gently fold in the dried cranberries and chopped walnuts, if desired.
6. Transfer to Pan: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
7. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bars are golden brown and set.
8. Cool and Cut: Allow the oat bars to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut into bars.

The Goodness of Oats

Oats are a nutritional powerhouse, offering a wealth of benefits for growing kids:

• Rich in Fiber: Oats are an excellent source of both soluble and insoluble fiber, which promote digestive health and regulate blood sugar levels.
• Packed with Nutrients: Oats contain an impressive array of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, including iron, zinc, magnesium, and vitamin B1.
• Provides Energy: The complex carbohydrates in oats provide sustained energy, keeping kids feeling full and energized for longer.
• Supports Heart Health: Oats contain beta-glucan, a soluble fiber that helps lower cholesterol levels and improve heart health.

Healthy and Delicious Add-Ins

Feel free to customize your oat bars with a variety of healthy and delicious add-ins:

• Dried Fruit: Raisins, blueberries, or cherries add a burst of sweetness and antioxidants.
• Nuts and Seeds: Chopped almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds provide extra protein and healthy fats.
• Chocolate Chips: Dark chocolate chips can be added for a decadent treat while still providing some health benefits.
• Spices: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg adds warmth and flavor.
• Yogurt Chips: Yogurt chips provide a tangy and protein-packed addition.

Packing Tips for School Lunches

These oat bars are perfect for packing in school lunches. Here are some tips:

• Wrap Individually: Wrap each oat bar individually in plastic wrap or parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
• Add an Ice Pack: If packing the oat bars for a longer lunch break, include an ice pack to keep them fresh.
• Pair with Fruits and Veggies: Pack the oat bars alongside fresh fruits and vegetables for a balanced and nutritious lunch.

Serving Suggestions

Oat bars are a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in various ways:

• Breakfast on the Go: Grab a couple of oat bars for a quick and portable breakfast before school or sports practice.
• Afternoon Snack: Satisfy afternoon hunger pangs with a sweet and nutritious oat bar.
• Dessert: Serve oat bars as a healthy and guilt-free dessert after dinner.
• Party Treat: Cut oat bars into bite-sized pieces for a fun and festive party snack.

Wrap-Up: Fueling Kids with Wholesome Goodness

Our kids oat bar recipe is a testament to the power of wholesome ingredients and the joy of homemade treats. These bars are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients that will keep your little ones energized and satisfied throughout the day. So, gather your kids and whip up a batch of these delectable oat bars today!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use quick-cooking oats instead of rolled oats?
A: Yes, you can use quick-cooking oats, but they will result in a slightly softer oat bar.
Q: Can I substitute honey with maple syrup?
A: Yes, you can replace honey with maple syrup in equal amounts.
Q: How can I make these oat bars gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free rolled oats and all-purpose flour to make these oat bars gluten-free.
Q: Can I store these oat bars for later?
A: Yes, you can store these oat bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Q: Can I add other fruits or nuts to these oat bars?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize these oat bars with your favorite fruits, nuts, or seeds for added flavor and nutrition.