Imagine biting into a perfectly crafted, golden-brown bar that's bursting with sweet strawberry flavor and packed with wholesome goodness. These Homemade Strawberry Nutri Grain Bars are not just a breakfast treat – they're a game-changing recipe that will transform your morning routine and impress even the pickiest eaters. Forget store-bought bars loaded with preservatives; this simple, delicious recipe puts you in control of every delectable bite!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup oats
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup strawberry jam
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, whole wheat flour, brown sugar, and salt. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
- Pour the melted butter into the dry ingredients and stir until the mixture becomes a crumbly, cohesive dough that holds together when pressed.
- Press approximately two-thirds of the dough firmly into the prepared baking pan, creating an even base layer that covers the entire bottom of the pan.
- Spread the strawberry jam evenly over the base layer, leaving a small border around the edges to prevent burning.
- Crumble the remaining dough over the strawberry jam layer, creating a rustic, uneven topping that allows some jam to peek through.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are slightly crisp.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan for about 1 hour to allow the bars to set properly.
- Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the entire batch out of the pan and transfer to a cutting board.
- Cut into 12 even bars using a sharp knife, ensuring clean and precise cuts.
- Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness.
Tips
- Use high-quality ingredients: Choose fresh, organic oats and whole wheat flour for the best flavor and texture.
- Room temperature matters: Ensure your butter is properly melted but not too hot when mixing with dry ingredients.
- Press the base layer firmly: Create a compact bottom layer to ensure your bars hold together well.
- Don't overspread the jam: Leave a small border to prevent burning and ensure even baking.
- Check for golden-brown perfection: Baking time can vary slightly depending on your oven, so watch closely after the 25-minute mark.
- Cooling is crucial: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to help them set and maintain their shape.
- Storage hack: For maximum freshness, store bars in a single layer with parchment paper between them to prevent sticking.
- Customize your jam: Feel free to experiment with different fruit preserves like raspberry or mixed berry for variety!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
