Homemade Oat and Apricot Bars Recipe

Ingredients:

2 cups rolled oats

1 cup dried apricots, chopped

1/2 cup almond butter (or any nut/seed butter of your choice)

1/3 cup honey or maple syrup (vegan version)

1/4 cup coconut oil, melted

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for a warm flavor)

A pinch of salt

Instructions:

Preparation: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8x8-inch (20x20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped dried apricots, and cinnamon (if using). Mix them well to distribute the apricot pieces evenly throughout the oats.

Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a separate microwave-safe bowl, melt the coconut oil. Once melted, add the almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir the ingredients until it is smooth and completely blended.

Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet mixture over the dry oat and apricot mixture. Use a spatula or your clean hands to thoroughly combine all the ingredients. Make sure every oat is coated with the wet mixture for optimal flavor in every bite.

Press into Pan: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan. Press it down firmly using the back of a spoon or your hands to create an even layer.

Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the bars turn golden brown around the edges.

Cool and Slice: Once the bars are done baking, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. This will help them firm up. After cooling, lift the bars out using the parchment paper overhang and place them on a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy: Once the bars are completely cool, use a sharp knife to slice them into your desired size of bars. The bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for several days or in the refrigerator for longer shelf life.

Why We Love These Bars:

Nutrient-Rich: Oats are a great source of fiber, providing sustained energy and aiding digestion. Apricots offer a dose of vitamins and antioxidants.

Customizable: Feel free to customize these bars to your taste. You can add nuts, seeds, or even chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor.

Quick and Easy: With minimal ingredients and simple steps, these bars are perfect for a quick homemade snack.

Healthier Alternative: Unlike store-bought granola bars loaded with additives, these bars allow you to control the ingredients and sweetness.

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