Chocolate-Covered Oat Bars are a delicious and satisfying snack that you can enjoy any time of the day. Packed with wholesome ingredients like oats, fruits, and nuts, they make a delightful treat that doesn’t compromise on taste. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a healthy dessert, these bars can do it all. And let’s not forget the rich chocolate coating that adds a burst of sweetness to each bite!
What You’ll Need for Chocolate-Covered Oat Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 100g (1 cup) rolled oats
- 30g (¼ cup) raisins
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 70g (½ cup) dried cranberries
- 60g (⅓ cup) almonds, roughly chopped
- 60g (⅓ cup) peanuts, roughly chopped
- 70g (½ cup) prunes, chopped
- 1-2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 30ml (2 tablespoons) Jerusalem artichoke syrup or honey
- 100g (½ cup) sugar-free dark chocolate
- ½ tablespoon coconut oil
- Fresh lemon wedges for serving
- Fresh raspberries for serving
- Your favorite tea for serving
How to Make Chocolate-Covered Oat Bars
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Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, raisins, cocoa powder, and sesame seeds. Then, add the dried cranberries, chopped almonds, chopped peanuts, and chopped prunes. Mix everything together until evenly distributed.
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Next, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Add the mashed bananas and Jerusalem artichoke syrup to the dry mixture and stir until fully combined.
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Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Press the mixture into the tray, shaping it into a rectangle about 2cm thick. Bake for 20 minutes until it turns slightly golden.
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Once baked, let the bars cool completely in the tray before cutting them into individual bars.
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For the chocolate coating, melt the dark chocolate and coconut oil together in a microwave or double boiler until smooth and creamy.
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Dip or drizzle the melted chocolate over the bars and place them in the refrigerator to set for about 40 minutes.
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Serve your chocolate-covered oat bars alongside fresh lemon wedges, raspberries, and your favorite tea for a delightful snack.
How to Serve Chocolate-Covered Oat Bars
When it comes to serving, the presentation can make all the difference! Place your chocolate-covered oat bars on a nice plate, and arrange the fresh lemon wedges and raspberries around them for a pop of color. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds refreshing flavors that complement the richness of the chocolate. Pair them with a cup of tea for a cozy afternoon treat, or enjoy them as a quick, energizing breakfast on the go.
Expert Tips for Chocolate-Covered Oat Bars
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Make Ahead: These bars can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container for up to a week. They’re perfect for meal prepping your snacks!
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Swap Ingredients: Feel free to swap out the nuts and dried fruits based on what you have on hand. Walnuts, pecans, and even coconut flakes can add a unique twist to your bars.
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Customize Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter bar, you can add a bit more Jerusalem artichoke syrup or honey, or even include a sprinkle of stevia or maple syrup.
Chocolate-Covered Oat Bars FAQs
Can I use other types of chocolate?
Yes, you can substitute the dark chocolate with milk or white chocolate if you prefer a different flavor!
How do I store the bars?
Store your chocolate-covered oat bars in an airtight container in a cool place or in the refrigerator to keep them fresh.
Can I freeze the bars?
Absolutely! These bars freeze well. Just wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Grab a mixing bowl and start making these scrumptious Chocolate-Covered Oat Bars! They are sure to become a favorite and a staple in your snack rotation. Enjoy the delicious combination of flavors, and feel good knowing you made something wholesome!